The Green Bay Packers have quietly begun preparing for a major coaching transition, as the organization anticipates the likely departure of defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley amid widespread head coaching interest across the league.

While no official announcement has been made, internal expectations in Green Bay suggest Hafley’s time with the Packers could be nearing its conclusion, prompting early-stage evaluations of potential successors to maintain continuity within the defensive structure.

The Packers’ proactive approach reflects both confidence in Hafley’s rising league profile and an understanding of how quickly coaching vacancies can materialize during the NFL’s hiring cycle.

Andy Herman of Packer Report brought further clarity to the situation on January 17, publishing a list of defensive coordinator candidates the organization may monitor closely in the coming weeks.

“Looks like a new DC will be at the helm in Green Bay one way or the other,” Herman wrote, outlining several names that could emerge as legitimate contenders should Hafley depart.

The list included Demarcus Covington, Zach Orr, Christian Parker, Raheem Morris, Derrick Ansley, and Jim Leonhard, signaling a blend of experience, youth, and schematic diversity.

Herman also identified former head coach Raheem Morris as his early favorite, particularly if Matt LaFleur remains in place as Green Bay’s head coach.

That condition was quickly satisfied, as Matt LaFleur agreed to a multiyear contract extension over the weekend, ensuring leadership continuity at the top of the organization.

LaFleur’s extension solidifies Green Bay’s coaching direction and increases the likelihood that familiarity, trust, and shared philosophy will factor heavily into the defensive coordinator search.

Among the names listed, Morris stands out due to his extensive experience, league-wide relationships, and deep connections within LaFleur’s coaching tree.

Raheem Morris recently became available after being dismissed as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons following three seasons at the helm.

Morris previously served as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2011, making him one of the more experienced candidates potentially available.

Across six seasons as a head coach, Morris compiled a 37-56 record and never reached the postseason, a statistic that has often overshadowed his broader coaching résumé.

Despite that lack of postseason success, Morris has consistently remained in demand across the league, reflecting strong internal respect for his leadership, communication skills, and defensive acumen.

His reputation was further reinforced during his time as defensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Rams under head coach Sean McVay.

Morris joined the Rams staff in 2021 and immediately helped engineer a Super Bowl–winning defense, earning a championship ring in his first season in the role.

That experience revitalized Morris’s standing as a top-tier defensive mind and reestablished his credentials after mixed results as a head coach.

The Rams connection is particularly relevant to Green Bay, given the longstanding relationship between McVay and LaFleur.

Both coaches emerged from the same offensive coaching tree and have maintained close professional ties throughout their careers.

Adding another layer of connection, LaFleur’s younger brother, Mike LaFleur, currently serves as the Rams’ offensive coordinator.

Those overlapping relationships provide LaFleur with direct insight into Morris’s coaching style, leadership approach, and ability to manage a modern NFL defense.

If Hafley departs and Morris does not secure another head coaching position, Green Bay would represent a logical landing spot grounded in familiarity and mutual respect.

That possibility becomes increasingly realistic as reports continue to suggest Hafley’s exit is imminent rather than speculative.

NFL Media insider Mike Garafolo reported Saturday that Green Bay is already operating under the assumption Hafley will soon accept a head coaching role.

Garafolo indicated that the Packers have begun internal preparations for a defensive coordinator hire, even though Hafley has not yet formally accepted an offer.

“Sources say the #Packers have begun work on defensive coordinators, as they expect Jeff Hafley is going to get a head coaching job,” Garafolo posted on X.

That expectation aligns with reporting from multiple league insiders who describe Hafley as one of the hottest coaching candidates this hiring cycle.

NFL insider Andrew Schultz added further momentum, stating Hafley is a finalist for as many as six head coaching openings.

Schultz reported that Hafley remains under serious consideration by the Miami Dolphins, Las Vegas Raiders, Pittsburgh Steelers, Arizona Cardinals, and Cleveland Browns.

Schultz also noted that Hafley is in the mix for the Tennessee Titans job, underscoring the breadth of his appeal.

Perhaps most notably, Tom Pelissero reported that Hafley currently appears to be the leading candidate for the Dolphins’ head coaching vacancy.

Pelissero stated that four additional teams have requested second interviews with Hafley, reinforcing the likelihood that a decision could arrive sooner rather than later.

For Green Bay, the implications are significant, as Hafley’s defensive system played a central role in the team’s recent identity and competitive resurgence.

Replacing him will require careful consideration of scheme continuity, player development, and philosophical alignment with LaFleur’s broader vision.

That reality explains why candidates with established NFL experience and proven adaptability, like Morris, carry particular appeal.

However, the Packers’ list also includes younger, ascending coaches, suggesting openness to innovation rather than reliance solely on veteran pedigree.

Demarcus Covington and Zach Orr represent the next generation of defensive minds, offering fresh perspectives shaped by modern analytics and hybrid schemes.

Christian Parker and Derrick Ansley bring strong secondary-focused backgrounds, aligning with the Packers’ emphasis on coverage versatility and defensive back development.

Jim Leonhard, a familiar name within Wisconsin football circles, offers local ties and collegiate success, though his NFL transition would require adjustment.

Ultimately, Green Bay’s decision will hinge on timing, availability, and alignment with LaFleur’s long-term strategic goals.

The franchise understands that defensive continuity matters, particularly as offensive systems across the league continue to evolve rapidly.

A seamless transition could preserve momentum, while a misstep risks destabilizing a roster built to contend immediately.

As Hafley’s future clarifies, the Packers’ coaching plans will move from speculation to execution.

If Morris becomes available, his résumé, relationships, and Super Bowl experience make him a compelling option.

For now, Green Bay remains in evaluation mode, balancing patience with preparation.

The coming weeks will determine not only Hafley’s destination, but the defensive direction of the Packers for seasons to come.

In a league where coaching stability often defines success, Green Bay’s next decision could prove pivotal.