The Green Bay Packers are heading into the offseason with some key leadership pieces staying put - namely general manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur. That kind of continuity at the top is big for a young, ascending roster. But even with that stability, change is coming, and it starts on the defensive side of the ball.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is on track to land a head coaching gig, with reports pointing to the Miami Dolphins as a likely destination. According to NFL Network, the Packers are already preparing for his departure and have started exploring potential replacements. And in a coaching carousel that’s spinning fast, Green Bay knows it can’t afford to stand still - especially with Jim Leonhard’s name heating up around the league.
Jim Leonhard: A Top Target on the Move
Leonhard is one of the most sought-after defensive minds in this year’s hiring cycle, and it’s not hard to see why. Over the past two seasons with the Denver Broncos, he’s worn multiple hats - defensive backs coach, pass game coordinator, and assistant head coach - and the results have been impressive.
Denver’s defense was elite in 2025, finishing second in total defense, seventh against the pass, and third in scoring defense. That kind of production doesn’t go unnoticed.
Even as the Broncos continue their playoff run, Leonhard has already drawn interest. He’s conducted virtual interviews with the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets, both of whom are in the market for a defensive coordinator.
And here’s where things get interesting for the Packers: while teams can’t meet with Leonhard in person until Denver is eliminated or during the Super Bowl bye week, there’s no rule against setting up virtual meetings now. In fact, that’s exactly what Green Bay needs to do - and fast.
A Wisconsin Connection That Makes Sense
Leonhard isn’t just a top-tier candidate - he’s a natural fit for the Packers. A Wisconsin native who starred at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Leonhard began his coaching career at his alma mater, eventually rising to defensive coordinator and even serving as interim head coach.
He knows the region, understands the culture, and has already been on Green Bay’s radar before. Back in 2021, the Packers pursued him for their DC role, but Leonhard opted to stay in the college ranks.
Now, five years later, the timing might finally be right.
With Hafley likely heading out, the Packers have a golden opportunity to bring in a coach who not only knows how to build a top-flight defense but also fits seamlessly into the organization’s identity. Leonhard checks all the boxes - scheme versatility, player development chops, and a leadership presence that resonates in the locker room.
The Clock Is Ticking
The reality is that other teams have already made their move. Dallas and New York are circling, and Leonhard’s stock isn’t going down anytime soon.
Green Bay can’t afford to be late to the party. If they want to land one of the most respected defensive minds available, they need to make their interest known now.
That means getting on Leonhard’s calendar for a virtual sit-down and showing him why Titletown should be his next stop.
According to ESPN, the Packers are indeed viewed as strong contenders to land Leonhard if Hafley departs. And while losing a coordinator is never ideal, this could be a rare case where the transition opens the door to something even better.
The Packers have momentum, a young core, and now, potentially, a chance to bring in a defensive leader who can elevate the unit to the next level. But in a league where timing is everything, the next move needs to come quickly.