JUST IN: Super Bowl Head Coach Floated as Packers Next Defensive Coordinator
Green Bay Packers are currently searching for a defensive coordinator, and one of the most esteemed defensive strategists in NFL history is seeking employment.
Following a remarkable 24-year tenure and six Super Bowl championships with the New England Patriots, Bill Belichick is exploring opportunities in the job market. Despite interviewing twice for the head coaching position with the Atlanta Falcons, the team ultimately announced the appointment of former Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris on January 25.
The Falcons were widely considered the most probable destination for the legendary coach. With only two coaching vacancies remaining, there is a possibility that Belichick may not secure a position in the current coaching cycle. Kyle Malzhan from WFRV Local 5 in Green Bay has suggested the idea of Packers head coach Matt LaFleur pursuing Belichick for the team’s vacant defensive coordinator position if other opportunities do not materialize for the seasoned coach.
What if Matt LaFleur and the #Packers did the unthinkable and got Bill Belichick to be the Defensive Coordinator in Green Bay? 🧐
— Kyle Malzhan (@KyleMalzhan) January 25, 2024
“What if Matt LaFleur and the #Packers pulled off a surprising move and brought Bill Belichick on board as the defensive coordinator in Green Bay? 🧐” Malzhan shared this speculation on Thursday.
Bill Belichick Now Unlikely to Become NFL Head Coach in 2024 Cycle
The notion of Bill Belichick willingly taking on a demotion is a challenging idea, considering his extensive and highly successful tenure as both the head coach and general manager of the New England Patriots. However, if he is determined to stay active in the game, accepting a lesser role, at least temporarily, may be a necessary step.
On Thursday, Adam Schefter of ESPN provided an overview of the current landscape in the NFL’s 2024 head coaching cycle.
“The last two head coaching openings in this cycle are with the Seahawks and the Commanders. According to league sources, neither team is expected to make a hiring decision until next week, following Sunday’s conference championship games,” Schefter shared on X. “The pool of available coaches for these final two spots includes Bill Belichick, Pete Carroll, Aaron Glenn, Ben Johnson, Anthony Weaver, Mike Macdonald, Ejiro Evero, Dan Quinn, and Bobby Slowik.”
As of Thursday, Pro Football Talk reported that neither franchise has interviewed Bill Belichick, making it unlikely for him to be at the helm of a team by the start of training camp in the spring.
Given Belichick’s impressive track record and high-profile name, various broadcasting companies would likely be interested in securing his services. If he opts not to pursue a career in media, a defensive coordinator position could be a viable option for him.
Matt LaFleur Fired Packers Defensive Coordinator Joe Barry Following Playoff Loss to 49ers
Matt LaFleur took the decision to dismiss Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry on Wednesday. Barry had faced criticism over the past two seasons, with Green Bay struggling notably against the run during that time. The team also encountered challenges defending against the pass, highlighted by allowing Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield to achieve a perfect passer rating at Lambeau Field in Week 15.
Bringing in Bill Belichick, with his vast expertise, could be instrumental in addressing the defensive issues that have plagued the Packers. Despite having the youngest offense in the NFL last season, Green Bay made significant progress under first-year starting QB Jordan Love. Belichick’s involvement could contribute to developing a defense that complements Love’s offense, potentially solidifying Green Bay as a formidable presence in the NFC for the foreseeable future.