The Green Bay Packers are reshaping their defensive identity - and they just made a major move to solidify their coaching staff. Jonathan Gannon, recently named the team’s new defensive coordinator, is wasting no time putting his stamp on the unit.
His first big addition? Bobby Babich, who’s coming in as the defensive pass game coordinator and secondary coach.
This is more than just a fresh face on the sideline. Babich brings serious experience to a Packers staff that’s been criticized for its youth and inexperience.
Most recently, he served as the defensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, where he helped shape one of the league’s most disciplined and consistent secondaries. Before that, he spent years honing his craft with defensive backs - and now he’ll be tasked with doing the same in Green Bay.
The title Babich is taking on - defensive pass game coordinator - is notable. That role belonged to Derrick Ansley this past season, so naturally, there are questions about what this means for Ansley’s future. As of now, there’s been no word on whether he’s staying, shifting roles, or heading elsewhere, but the coaching shuffle isn’t over yet.
This move also comes in response to a key departure. The Packers lost Ryan Downard, their previous defensive backs coach, who followed Jeff Hafley to Miami. Downard was highly regarded, so replacing him with someone of Babich’s caliber is a strong counterpunch.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Babich has been on Green Bay’s radar. Head coach Matt LaFleur interviewed him for the defensive coordinator position two years ago.
Babich ultimately stayed in Buffalo and earned a promotion, while LaFleur hired Hafley. Now, with Hafley gone and Gannon in charge, Babich finally lands in Green Bay - this time in a key supporting role.
The Packers still have some work to do. They’re in the market for a new linebackers coach after Sean Duggan joined the Dolphins.
But landing Babich is a big win, especially for a staff that needed a veteran presence on the defensive side. With LaFleur heavily involved in the offense, having proven minds like Babich and Gannon leading the defense is crucial.
If Ansley and defensive line coach DeMarcus Covington stick around, Green Bay could head into 2026 with four coaches who have defensive coordinator experience. That’s a rare luxury in today’s NFL - and a promising sign for a team looking to turn the page on recent defensive struggles.
Packers fans may have been skeptical about the Gannon hire, but bringing in Babich is the kind of move that should inspire confidence. He’s not just a stopgap - he’s a coach with the résumé, the leadership, and the scheme knowledge to make an immediate impact.