Packers receive relieving coaching staff update as league-wide musical chairs continue across the NFL
DeMarcus Covington interviewed for a defensive coordinator job with the Raiders.
The Green Bay Packers have gone through significant coaching staff changes on defense, including the departure of coordinator Jeff Hafley and most of the positional coaches. The one who’s left had a possibility to go elsewhere too, but he’s staying around for now. Defensive line coach and run game coordinator DeMarcus Covington interviewed for the defensive coordinator position with the Las Vegas Raiders, but the Raiders ultimately promoted Rob Leonard.
Covington, who was a DC for the New England Patriots in 2024 under head coach Jerod Mayo, could have been the play-caller under offensive-minded head coach Klint Kubiak. Instead, he’s expected to work under Jonathan Gannon in Green Bay — unless a new opportunity arises.
New staff
Hafley went to become the Miami Dolphins’ head coach. Linebackers coach Sean Duggan (defensive coordinator), defensive backs coach Ryan Downard (secondary coach), and defensive quality control coach Wendel Davis followed him for new jobs in Miami. Additionally, passing game coordinator Derrick Ansley was let go — since, he’s been hired by the Dallas Cowboys as a PGC and defensive backs coach. Former defensive analyst Nathaniel Hackett went to the Arizona Cardinals as the offensive coordinator.
In order to replace them, the Packers have hired defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, linebackers coach Sam Siefkes, and defensive backs coach/passing game coordinator Bobby Babich. Matt LaFleur also added Daniel Bullocks and Will Smart to the staff, even though their positions haven’t been detailed yet.
In addition to Covington, the only members of last year’s defensive staff who are still on the group are assistant defensive line coach Vince Oghobaase, defensive assistant Jeff Koonz, and quality control coach Jamael Lett.
A 36-year-old coach, DeMarcus Covington has been an instrumental part of the staff. He replaced Jason Rebrovich coaching the defensive line (integrating interior defensive linemen and edge defenders) and Anthony Campanile as the run game coordinator.
His experience on the New England Patriots with multiple years under Bill Belichick is a valuable asset for the Packers. LaFleur has prioritized experience, so keeping Covington on the staff is a big win for a team that needs internal development from its players.
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