Packers hire Jeff Hafley from Boston College as new defensive coordinator

Boston College head coach Jeff Hafley leaves to become Green Bay Packers' defensive coordinator. Packers fired Joe Barry last week.

Jeff Hafley, the head coach of Boston College, is leaving his position to join the Green Bay Packers as their new defensive coordinator. The Packers made the announcement on Wednesday evening, stating that Hafley will be taking over for Joe Barry, who was recently dismissed from his role as the team's defensive coordinator. Hafley, who had a 22-26 record in four seasons at Boston College, expressed his gratitude for his time at the university and his appreciation for the players and the BC community.

The 44-year-old coach has had previous experience as an NFL secondary coach and as Ohio State's co-defensive coordinator and secondary coach. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur expressed his excitement for Hafley to lead their defense, highlighting his success and track record of developing players at every level. Hafley will be taking charge of a defense that showed improvement towards the end of the season after struggling earlier on.

Hafley's departure from Boston College leaves the program with a coaching vacancy, making it the only Football Bowl Subdivision program with an open position. The athletic director of Boston College, Blake James, stated that they are grateful for Hafley's years of service and that a national search for a new head coach will commence immediately.

The move by Hafley is part of a trend of college head coaches transitioning to roles as assistants in the NFL, with other coaches making similar moves in recent times. Hafley's decision to join the Green Bay Packers marks a significant change in his coaching career and presents new opportunities for both him and the team.