Following the departure of Defensive Coordinator Jeff Hafley to the Miami Dolphins, LaFleur has been evaluating options to stabilize the unit. Insight from the Derailed podcast, via Nick Halden, suggests Covington could be the lone notable defensive holdover, while Rob Leonard has taken Hafley’s former role and the defense will see significant changes.
The broader shakeup includes several assistants who exited after Hafley’s departure, including Sean Duggan, Ryan Downard, Derrick Ansley, Wendel Davis, and Vince Oghobaase. Retaining Covington would provide continuity as Green Bay navigates a new defensive leadership under Jonathan Gannon, even as fans brace for a substantial transition.
For LaFleur, the objective is clear: keep the Packers in the mix for the playoffs and elevate them to Super Bowl contention in 2026. LaFleur has guided Green Bay to the postseason in six of seven years, with the franchise’s strongest runs ending in NFC Championship appearances in 2019 and 2020. The 2025 season ended with a Wild Card loss to Chicago, raising questions about long-term stability if the team doesn’t compete for a title next year.
Ultimately, the key for Green Bay is whether LaFleur can build a defense and staff capable of meeting higher expectations. Covington’s potential return offers a degree of continuity, but the coaching carousel and new defensive leadership will shape the Packers’ trajectory toward sustained success in 2026.
