With Jeff Hafley expected to take the next step in his coaching career, likely as the Miami Dolphins' new head coach, the Green Bay Packers are staring down a significant decision: who’s going to take over the defensive reins in Titletown?
Hafley, who joined the Packers just last year, made a strong impression in his short stint. But now, multiple reports suggest he’s the frontrunner for the Dolphins’ head coaching job, where he’d reunite with new GM Jon-Eric Sullivan - a familiar face from his Green Bay days. According to insider reports, Hafley impressed Miami brass during his virtual interview, and while the Dolphins are still conducting interviews, all signs point to Hafley being their guy.
And it’s not just Miami. Hafley has drawn interest from across the league, with teams like the Titans, Falcons, Ravens, Cardinals, and Steelers all lining up for a second look. At this point, it feels less like an “if” and more like a “when” - Hafley’s likely gone, and the Packers know it.
So, where does Green Bay go from here?
Sources say the Packers aren’t waiting around. They’ve already started evaluating potential replacements, and there’s a mix of familiar names, intriguing up-and-comers, and a few long shots. Let’s break down some of the more realistic candidates, from less likely to most likely to end up calling the defensive shots at Lambeau next season.
7. Robert Saleh
Let’s be honest - this one’s a stretch. Saleh has ties to Matt LaFleur, and he was around the Packers last season, but he’s not leaving the 49ers for a lateral move.
More importantly, he’s in the mix for head coaching jobs himself. If he moves, it won’t be to run someone else’s defense.
6. Jeff Ulbrich
Ulbrich is an interesting name with connections to LaFleur from their time in Atlanta. He’s been around the league, most recently as defensive coordinator in Atlanta after a stint with the Jets.
But here’s the catch - the Falcons reportedly want to keep him, and they’ve already blocked an interview with the Cowboys. There’s no reason to believe they’d roll out the red carpet for Green Bay.
Still, his familiarity with LaFleur keeps him on the radar.
5. Brian Flores
Now this would be a splash hire. Flores is one of the most respected defensive minds in the league, and his aggressive, creative style would fit well with the Packers’ young, fast defense.
He’s currently a free agent after his contract with the Vikings expired, but the big question is whether he’d take a lateral move - and do it within the division - when he’s still in the mix for head coaching jobs. It’s a long shot, but if Green Bay could land him, it’d be a home run.
4. Jim Leonhard
Leonhard is a name that resonates in Wisconsin. A Badger through and through, he’s currently working as the assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator in Denver.
If Vance Joseph gets another head coaching gig, Leonhard could be next in line for the Broncos’ DC job. Still, his deep ties to the state and reputation as a sharp defensive mind make him a compelling option if the Packers want someone who understands the culture and brings high football IQ to the table.
3. Al Harris
Packers fans know this name well. Harris was a staple in Green Bay’s secondary during the 2000s and earned two Pro Bowl nods during his time in green and gold.
Now, he’s coaching defensive backs and coordinating the pass defense for the Chicago Bears - a unit that’s been opportunistic and aggressive. The Bears can’t block him from taking a promotion, so if the Packers want to bring a familiar face home, this could be a smart move.
Harris knows the franchise, knows the expectations, and has earned respect as a coach.
2. DeMarcus Covington
Covington joined the Packers in 2025 after serving as New England’s defensive coordinator in 2024. This past season, he worked in Green Bay as the defensive line coach and run game coordinator - and he’s already drawing interest from the Dallas Cowboys.
If the Packers want to promote from within and keep continuity on defense, Covington makes a lot of sense. He’s young, rising fast, and already has DC experience.
But if Green Bay wants to keep him, they’ll need to act quickly.
1. Raheem Morris
Morris might not have found long-term success as a head coach, but as a defensive coordinator, he’s the real deal. He’s got a Super Bowl ring from his time with the Rams, and he’s worked with LaFleur before in both Washington and Atlanta.
The familiarity is there, the resume is strong, and he’s available after being let go by Atlanta. If the Packers are looking for a steady, experienced hand to guide a young, talented defense, Morris could be the perfect fit.
The Packers have options - and good ones. Whether they go with a rising in-house candidate like Covington, a familiar face like Harris, or a proven veteran like Morris, the next defensive coordinator will inherit a unit with talent at every level and expectations to match.
Green Bay isn’t just looking for someone to run the defense. They’re looking for someone to elevate it. With Hafley likely heading out, the search for the next defensive architect is officially on.