Boston College head coach Jeff Hafley is set to join the Green Bay Packers as their new defensive coordinator, according to sources. Hafley, who has a record of 22-26 in four seasons at Boston College, has led the team to bowl eligibility in three of those years. The team finished this year with a 7-6 record and a victory over No. 22 SMU in the Fenway Bowl.
Hafley’s decision to take on the coordinator job in the NFL comes as a result of his dissatisfaction with the current state of college football. According to a source, Hafley wants to “go coach football again in a league that is all about football.” He believes that college coaching has become more focused on fundraising, name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, recruiting, and transfers, leaving little time for actual coaching.
The move by Hafley to become a coordinator in the NFL is part of a growing trend among college head coaches. He joins South Alabama’s Kane Wommack and Buffalo’s Maurice Linguist, who both left their positions to take on coordinator jobs at Alabama. This trend highlights the increasing gap between top-tier schools and others in terms of resources, with NIL deals playing a crucial role in recruiting and roster retention.
The allure of the Packers’ future was a significant factor in Hafley’s decision. The team has a strong young core and a promising outlook. Hafley has a longstanding friendship with Packers coach Matt LaFleur and has always admired the franchise. Although LaFleur and Hafley have never worked together directly, they have mutual connections through their coaching careers.
Hafley’s experience in the NFL includes seven years as an assistant coach, specializing in various secondary positions. He returned to college football in 2019 as Ohio State’s defensive coordinator before taking on the head coach role at Boston College following the 2019 season. Despite one losing record in four years, Hafley has made significant strides in recruiting, leading Boston College to three of its top recruiting classes in history.
The Packers’ defensive coaching staff for the 2024 season remains intact, with the exception of Joe Barry, who Hafley will replace as the defensive coordinator. It is likely that some or all of the current staff will continue to work under Hafley.
Hafley’s appointment as the Packers’ defensive coordinator marks an exciting new chapter in his coaching career. With his experience and passion for the game, he is poised to make a significant impact on the team’s defense. Packers fans can look forward to a fresh perspective and renewed energy as Hafley joins the ranks of one of the NFL’s most respected franchises.