The Atlanta Falcons are continuing their head coaching search, and they've turned their attention to Green Bay. On January 15, the team interviewed Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as part of their process to find the next leader of their franchise.
Hafley’s name might not have been at the top of everyone’s list when this hiring cycle began, but make no mistake-he’s well-respected in NFL circles, especially for his work in Green Bay. He took over the Packers’ defense ahead of the 2024 season, and while his time in Titletown has been short, it’s been impactful.
The Falcons, who are looking to reset after another disappointing season, appear to be casting a wide net. Hafley joins a growing list of candidates the team has spoken with, as they weigh their options between experienced NFL coaches and rising stars with fresh perspectives. His inclusion signals Atlanta’s interest in a defensive-minded leader, someone who can bring toughness, structure, and accountability to a team that’s struggled to find consistency on either side of the ball.
Before landing in Green Bay, Hafley had already built a solid résumé. He was the head coach at Boston College, where he earned praise for his leadership and player development.
Prior to that, he worked as a defensive backs coach in the NFL, including stops with the 49ers, Browns, and Buccaneers. That blend of college head coaching experience and NFL positional coaching gives him a unique perspective-he knows how to lead a locker room, but also understands the nuances of NFL game planning and personnel.
In Green Bay, Hafley made an immediate mark. His defense played with more energy and discipline, showing flashes of the kind of unit that could carry games when the offense struggled.
While the Packers’ season ultimately ended in playoff heartbreak, Hafley’s ability to adapt and get the most out of his players didn’t go unnoticed. Atlanta, a team with young talent on defense but lacking a clear identity, could see Hafley as the kind of coach who can mold that group into something more formidable.
For the Falcons, the next head coach isn’t just about X’s and O’s-it’s about culture. They’ve cycled through different coaching styles in recent years, trying to find the right formula. Hafley’s reputation as a communicator and teacher, combined with his defensive acumen, makes him an intriguing candidate for a franchise in search of stability and direction.
This interview doesn’t guarantee anything, of course. The Falcons are expected to speak with several more candidates before making a decision.
But Hafley’s inclusion in the process is telling. Atlanta is doing its homework, and they’re not limiting themselves to the usual suspects.
Whether or not Hafley ends up in Atlanta, his name is clearly gaining traction in league circles. And if the Packers lose him, it would be a significant blow to a defense that showed real promise under his leadership.