Full Breakdown
Jets and Packers Seek New Defensive Coordinators Amid Coaching Changes
1/21/2026, 3:26:26 AM
Overview of the Coaching Landscape
As the NFL coaching carousel spins rapidly this January, both the New York Jets and Green Bay Packers are actively searching for new defensive coordinators following disappointing seasons. The Jets are looking to replace interim defensive coordinator Chris Harris, while the Packers must find a successor for Jeff Hafley, who recently accepted the head coaching position with the Miami Dolphins.
Jets' Defensive Coordinator Search
The New York Jets finished the 2025 season with a dismal 3-14 record, prompting significant changes within their coaching staff. Head coach Aaron Glenn is leading the search for a new defensive coordinator after the firing of Steve Wilks. The Jets have conducted interviews with several candidates, including Wink Martindale, Daronte Jones, and Jim Leonhard, with Martindale emerging as a leading candidate due to his aggressive defensive style.
Chris Harris, who served as the interim defensive coordinator, has been identified as a finalist for the position despite a challenging tenure that saw the Jets allow over 35 points per game during his three-game stint. Critics argue that promoting Harris would be a poor choice given the defense's struggles, particularly its failure to record an interception throughout the season. The Jets are expected to finalize their decision soon, with the potential for a new hire by the end of the week.
Packers' Defensive Coordinator Candidates
In Green Bay, head coach Matt LaFleur is on the hunt for his fourth defensive coordinator in eight seasons after Hafley's departure. The Packers ranked eighth in points allowed per game and ninth in yards allowed during Hafley's tenure, but LaFleur is now considering various candidates to lead the defense.
Notable candidates include Raheem Morris, who has a close relationship with LaFleur and previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, and Al Harris, the Chicago Bears' defensive backs coach with a strong track record. Other options include Christian Parker from the Philadelphia Eagles, who has helped develop standout players, and Jim Leonhard, a former Jets safety with significant coaching experience.
The Packers are also exploring internal candidates like DeMarcus Covington, their run game coordinator, and Derrick Ansley, the pass game coordinator. The urgency to fill this position is heightened by the competitive nature of the coaching market, with other teams also seeking defensive coordinators.
Challenges in Attracting Talent
Both teams face challenges in attracting top coaching talent. For the Jets, the uncertainty surrounding Glenn's future may deter candidates, especially given the team's lack of standout defensive players. The Jets did not record a single interception in the entire season, raising concerns for prospective coordinators.
Conversely, the Packers have a more stable environment but must compete with other franchises for the best candidates. The coaching changes across the league, including the recent hiring of head coaches like John Harbaugh by the New York Giants and Kevin Stefanski by the Atlanta Falcons, add to the competitive landscape.
Conclusion: Future Prospects
As the Jets and Packers navigate their coaching searches, both teams hold valuable assets, including high draft picks and significant cap space, which could enhance their rosters. The right hire for the defensive coordinator position will be crucial for both franchises as they aim to rebound from their recent struggles and build competitive teams for the upcoming season.
