The Green Bay Packers just made a move that could have ripple effects across the league - and one that might work in the New York Giants’ favor.
With Jeff Hafley off to take the reins as head coach of the Miami Dolphins, the Packers filled their defensive coordinator vacancy by hiring Jonathan Gannon, the former Cardinals head coach and Eagles DC. That decision effectively takes Jim Leonhard out of the running in Green Bay - and potentially puts him squarely in the Giants’ sights.
Leonhard, a name that carries serious weight in Wisconsin football circles, had been viewed as a strong candidate to return to his home state and join Matt LaFleur’s staff. The former University of Wisconsin star safety turned respected college defensive coordinator has long been seen as a coach on the rise. He’s currently serving as the Denver Broncos’ pass game coordinator, and with the Broncos still alive in the playoff hunt - they’ll face the Patriots this Sunday for a shot at the Super Bowl - his availability is limited until their postseason run ends.
But LaFleur didn’t wait. Instead of holding out for Leonhard, he moved decisively to bring in Gannon, a coach with both head coaching experience and a strong defensive pedigree. That choice could open the door for the Giants to pounce.
New York, under head coach John Harbaugh, is in the market for a new defensive coordinator and has reportedly been eyeing several names - Leonhard among them. Also in the mix: Anthony Weaver, Dennard Wilson, and Daronte Jones, each of whom brings a different flavor to the table.
And in a bit of a wild card twist, there’s been chatter about Rex Ryan potentially re-entering the coaching world. Ryan hasn’t coached since 2016, but his name still carries weight in defensive circles.
The key here is timing. With the Packers no longer in the picture, the Giants have a clearer path to pursue Leonhard - assuming they’re willing to wait out the Broncos’ playoff run.
If Denver advances to the Super Bowl, that could delay any potential hire until after February 8. But if Harbaugh sees Leonhard as the right fit to lead his defense, the wait might be worth it.
This is a pivotal moment for the Giants. With multiple strong candidates still on the board, including one of the brightest young defensive minds in the game, New York has a real opportunity to shape the identity of its defense for years to come.