Green Bay Packers May Look To Poach Vikings Coach For Defensive Coordinator Position
The Green Bay Packers are wasting no time in their search for a new defensive coordinator following Jeff Hafley’s departure to become the head coach of the Miami Dolphins. According to multiple reports, the Packers have requested to interview Minnesota Vikings assistant coach Daronte Jones for the position.
Green Bay Packers Targeting A Rising Star in Coaching
Daronte Jones has been a key figure on the Vikings’ defensive coaching staff under Brian Flores. Serving as the team’s defensive passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach, Jones has played a significant role in shaping a Vikings defense that has been among the league’s best in recent years. Over the past two seasons, Minnesota’s defense ranked in the top 10 in points allowed and takeaways, with standout performances in interceptions and passes defensed.
Jones’ coaching resume is extensive. Before joining the Vikings, he served as the defensive coordinator at LSU in 2021 and held roles as the defensive backs coach for the Cincinnati Bengals (2018-2019) and the Miami Dolphins (2016-2017). He also has ties to Wisconsin, having coached defensive backs for the Badgers in 2015.
Packers’ Defensive Coordinator Search
The Packers are looking to fill the void left by Hafley, who transformed Green Bay’s defense into one of the NFL’s top units during his two-year tenure. While Hafley’s departure is a significant loss, the Packers are moving quickly to identify a replacement who can build on his success.
Jones is reportedly in high demand this offseason. In addition to the Packers, he has already interviewed for defensive coordinator positions with the New York Jets and Dallas Cowboys, and the New York Giants have also requested an interview. His growing reputation as a defensive strategist and his ability to develop talent make him an attractive candidate for teams across the league.
Why Jones Makes Sense for Green Bay
Jones’ experience working under Brian Flores, a defensive mastermind, has prepared him to take on a larger role. His work with the Vikings’ secondary has been particularly impressive, helping players like Byron Murphy and Harrison Smith excel. The Packers, who have a talented but inconsistent secondary, could benefit from Jones’ expertise in this area.
Additionally, Jones’ familiarity with the NFC North could give him an edge in understanding the division’s offensive tendencies. His time in Minnesota has provided him with valuable insights into the Packers’ rivals, which could prove beneficial if he joins Green Bay’s coaching staff.
What’s Next?
The Packers’ decision to target Jones signals their intent to maintain a strong defensive identity under head coach Matt LaFleur. While Jones is just one of several candidates the team is likely to consider, his track record and rising profile make him a compelling option.
As the interview process unfolds, the Packers will need to act quickly to secure their top choice. With multiple teams vying for Jones’ services, Green Bay faces stiff competition. However, the opportunity to lead a defense with a solid foundation and a passionate fanbase could make the Packers an appealing destination for Jones.
For now, Packers fans will have to wait and see if Jones becomes the next leader of their defense. Regardless of the outcome, his candidacy underscores the team’s commitment to finding the right fit for one of the most important roles on their coaching staff.
