The Arizona Cardinals have expanded their search for a new head coach by adding Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley to their list of candidates. This comes as the Cardinals review a robust lineup of potential coaching talents, as detailed by ROTB’s Managing Editor Seth Cox.
Hafley, who is currently in his second season with the Packers, has been instrumental in improving the team’s defensive performance. Under his guidance, Green Bay has achieved a #12 ranking in overall defense, demonstrating notable strengths in pass defense and limiting rushing yards to an average of 117.7 yards per game.
Prior to his role in Green Bay, Hafley enjoyed success as the head coach at Boston College from 2020 to 2023, leading the Eagles to three bowl games. His coaching journey began in 2001, and he has accumulated experience across various college programs and the NFL, including positions with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cleveland Browns, and San Francisco 49ers.
Despite his rising market value, the path to interviewing Hafley presents challenges, as he cannot engage with teams until the Packers either exit the playoffs or complete their Super Bowl run. His recent success, transforming Green Bay’s defense from 22nd to 12th in yards allowed, has drawn interest from other franchises, including the Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons.
The Cardinals’ search is already populated with impressive candidates. Among those also being considered are Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, and Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. Interviews are already being scheduled, with Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy set to meet with the Cardinals on Friday and former Falcons head coach Raheem Morris slated for next week.
As the Cardinals navigate these coaching options, the focus remains on whether they will opt for a defensive-minded leader once again. With a rich pool of candidates, including Hafley, the organization is presented with an exciting opportunity to reshape its coaching philosophy and potentially elevate its performance on the field.