New Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley met with the media for almost a half-hour on Thursday. Hafley, the former Boston College head coach, is replacing Joe Barry at defensive coordinator in Green Bay. In his first public appearance in Green Bay, Hafley preached teaching, communicating, player development, simplifying and collaboration as foundations to his coaching style.
Here are the top things to know from Hafley’s introductory presser at Lambeau Field:
— Said Matt LaFleur was one of the top reasons why he wanted to come to Green Bay. Previously worked with Matt’s brother, and Kyle Shanahan and Robert Saleh. Complimented Brian Gutekunst for talent acquisition, especially in recent years. Excited about working with a team that came together so strongly to end last year. “It’s the Green Bay Packers, this is the mecca of the football world to me.”
— Beliefs on defense: “It comes down to, can you take your players and put them in the best positions to succeed? And can you take your players and maximize their ability?” Accomplished through scheme, but also simplicity. Wants players playing fast and fearless.
— Not interested in looking back on what did or did not work for previous Packers defenses. Wants to “move forward” and “try to improve it.”
— “You have to get after the quarterback.” Says there are down and distances where you must be aggressive in terms of creating pressures.
— Hafley admitted “college football has changed.” Dealt with COVID-19, transfer portal and NIL during his first three seasons at Boston College.
— What’s he looking for in a post safety? “Guy who can erase things.” Prevent big plays. Has to tackle. Has to rally to the ball. Sideline to sideline, turnover-creator. Communication. Man coverage. Size isn’t as important, can be between 190-205 pounds in general.
— Hafley believes new linebackers coach Anthony Campanile is “one of the best coaches” he’s been around. “I think the players are going to love him.”
— On Vince Oghobaase: Demanding, coaches to a standard, great at forming relationships, communicating, sees the big picture. Past experience together with 49ers and at Boston College.
— Preached teaching defense to make it simple to understand. Players play fast and aggressive when it’s simple. Also preached earning trust by forming relationships. Provides groundwork for having tough conversations, and the ability to learn from players as coaches. Mentioned how much he learned for players such as Darrelle Revis, Ronde Barber and Richard Sherman.
— “We can’t give up free plays. We have to make them earn it.” Key is finding what the players can handle and execute at a high level.
— Hafley has been in touch with Packers players. Still working through the whole defensive roster. Not willing to pinpoint cornerstones of the defense just yet. “I’m excited to get my hands on a lot of these guys.”
— Not tied to a particular scheme. Wants what is best for the players. Will be a collaboration with coaches and players.
— “Quay is a talented player.” Says the defense will be built around his playmaking ability, but they don’t know his position just yet.
— Zone coverages are built on “vision and break.” Wants 2-3 players going to the ball every time it’s thrown.
— On matching personnel: “The faster they get, they faster we have to get. The bigger they get, the bigger we have to get.”
— Believes he has guys who will be good on the edge in his scheme. Wants “four best pass-rushers on the field” on third down.
— Hafley said he is currently living in the hotel across from Lambeau Field. Wife and kids will be eventually moving to Green Bay.
