The Ravens promoted inside linebackers coach Zach Orr, who has spent nine years as a player and coach in Baltimore, to the Packers, securing the next defensive coordinator in their 28-year history.The Packers have hired former Boston College head coach Jeff Hafley as their new defensive coordinator, a surprising move despite no prior interview reports, according to an unnamed league source.
Hafley, a college football coach, faces challenges in the recruiting trail and returning to Boston College for the 2024 NCAA season. If he interviews for NFL jobs, potential recruits may question his commitment to the school.Hafley’s close friendship with Packers head coach Matt LaFleur may have led to off-the-record discussions about a team-up, with Hafley potentially serving as a backup if LaFleur and company fail to find Orr.
Hafley was hired on January 31, the same day as Orr’s interview for the defensive coordinator job in Green Bay. Orr was initially offered the job, but turned it down due to promotion prospects.Baltimore’s defensive coordinator history includes internal hires like Marvin Lewis, Mike Nolan, Rex Ryan, Greg Mattison, Chuck Pagano, Dean Pees, and Don “Wink” Martindale, with Mike Macdonald being the first external hire, despite spending seven years in Baltimore.
Orr, aware of his chances of succeeding Macdonald as coordinator, turned down the Packers’ offer to be hired into the Ravens’ position the next day, potentially leveraging a similar advancement in Baltimore.The report highlights the struggles of Green Bay’s young coach and Baltimore’s desire to retain Orr, who coached Smith and Queen to All-Pro honors.The Ravens may see Macdonald and those not promoted between Orr and Weaver walk. Weaver is reportedly destined for a coordinator position elsewhere, while Orr was the choice for Baltimore and Green Bay.
