Jim Leonhard Emerges as Top Candidate for Packers Defensive Coordinator Position

As the Green Bay Packers search for a new defensive coordinator following Jeff Hafley's departure to the Miami Dolphins, Jim Leonhard, currently the assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator for the Denver Broncos, has emerged as a leading candidate. Reports indicate there is "mutual interest" between Leonhard and the Packers, with head coach Matt LaFleur prioritizing an interview with him after the AFC Championship Game on January 28, 2026.

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Leonhard, a Wisconsin native and former player for the University of Wisconsin, has a notable coaching background. He served as the defensive coordinator at Wisconsin from 2017 to 2022, achieving significant success, including leading a top-six defense in college football multiple times. In 2021, he was considered a frontrunner for the Packers' defensive coordinator position but opted to remain at Wisconsin, citing a desire to fulfill his commitments there. His coaching journey continued with a year as a senior analyst at Illinois before joining the Broncos.

Former Wisconsin Badgers coach Jim Leonhard has 'mutual interest' with Green Bay Packers for coordinator role

The Packers are exploring several candidates for the defensive coordinator role, including Al Harris (Chicago Bears), Daronte Jones (Minnesota Vikings), and Jonathan Gannon (former Arizona Cardinals head coach). However, Leonhard's connection to Wisconsin and his coaching pedigree make him a particularly appealing choice for the Packers.

Packers Waiting on Jim Leonhard for DC Hire Starting to Pay Off

Leonhard's potential hiring could significantly enhance the Packers' defensive unit, which features standout players like Micah Parsons and Xavier McKinney. His experience in developing successful defenses at the collegiate level and his current role in the NFL position him as a candidate who could elevate the Packers' defense from good to elite. The team is keen to make a decision soon, as other teams are also vying for defensive coordinator talent.

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Rob Demovsky, an ESPN reporter, emphasized the Packers' commitment to interviewing Leonhard, stating, "I don’t think anything happens until he can talk to Jim Leonhard." This sentiment reflects the team's strategy of waiting for Leonhard's availability before making any hiring decisions.

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While the Packers' strategy to wait for Leonhard may seem prudent, it carries risks. Other teams, including the New York Jets and Los Angeles Chargers, are actively seeking defensive coordinators, which could lead to a competitive hiring landscape. If the Broncos win the AFC Championship, the Packers may face a prolonged wait, potentially losing out on other candidates.

How Risky Is It For Matt LaFleur To Wait Around For Jim Leonhard?

There is some ambiguity regarding the NFL's rules on interviewing assistant coaches during the playoffs. While some reports suggest that remote interviews are permissible, in-person interviews cannot occur until the team is eliminated from playoff contention. This situation complicates the Packers' timeline and raises concerns about their ability to secure Leonhard if they delay.

Packers Waiting on Jim Leonhard for DC Hire Starting to Pay Off

• “ “I think Jim Leonhard is on his list.” — Rob Demovsky, ESPN Reporter

Packers Waiting on Jim Leonhard for DC Hire Starting to Pay Off

• “I think that is 100 percent in play. There are probably more people LaFleur wants to talk to and interview, but if they were gonna hire, and maybe they will hire Jonathan Gannon, I don't know, but if they were gonna hire him, why not hire him by now?” — Rob Demovsky, ESPN Reporter

The latest Packers–Jim Leonhard update gives fans a reason to dream

• “While the Eagles wound up firing Moore’s replacement, Kevin Patullo, after one season, the Packers are diving into a much deeper talent pool with 10 head coaching changes in this year’s hiring cycle.” — Rob Demovsky, ESPN Reporter

Packers Waiting on Jim Leonhard for DC Hire Starting to Pay Off

As the Packers navigate this critical hiring decision, the outcome of the AFC Championship Game will play a pivotal role in shaping their defensive future.

ESPN radio host gives Jim Leonhard to Packers update that fans will want to hear