Packers spark fresh doubts about their coaching staff just as the Giants gear up to scrutinize a rising candidate.QQ
Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley has had great results since he took the Packers’ unit over in 2024.
The Green Bay Packers are coming from a two-loss streak, and the next game might have more long-term implications than you would naturally think. In addition to the pressure over head coach Matt LaFleur, defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is getting momentum to become a head coach in the near future.
Giants connections
The New York Giants fired head coach Brian Daboll this week, and Sunday’s game against the Packers will be the first with Mike Kafka as the interim. It will also be an opportunity to closely watch what Hafley is capable of.
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ESPN NFL analyst Peter Schrager mentioned Hafley earlier this week as a potential strong connection with the Giants.
In the previous hiring cycle, Jeff Hafley interviewed for the New York Jets head coaching job, which ultimately went to former Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Now, maybe it’s the other New York team that gives Hafley a chance.
A former head coach at Boston College for four seasons, Jeff Hafley has been the Packers defensive coordinator since last year. The unit significantly improved with him. Since Hafley took over, the Packers are sixth in EPA/play and 11th in success rate — a major upgrade compared to what the team had had with Mike Pettine and Joe Barry.
The Giants may ultimately prefer an offensive-minded head coach trying to develop and establish young quarterback Jaxson Dart, but if Jeff Hafley can convince them with a solid offensive plan, getting a smart CEO-type head coach could be a worthwhile attempt.
This week, the Giants might not have Dart, though. He left the Chicago Bears game on Sunday with a concussion, and veteran backup Russell Wilson finished the game. If Dart can’t play, though, Jameis Winston is now slated to start. And if that happens, Hafley will have an easier time making a positive impression at MetLife Stadium.
