Jeff Hafley has transformed Green Bay’s defense.
The Packers lead the league in takeaways this season. They rank 12th in Defense-adjusted Value Over Average (DVOA) in 2024. Last year, they finished 27th in the same category.
Offenses convert third downs against the Packers 32.9% of the time. If the season ended today, that would be their best rate since 2006. Despite limited edge rush productivity, Hafley’s defense is stil finding ways to create problems for opposing teams.
From Weeks 2 through 7, Hafley’s defense allowed no more than 10 points in the second half of each game. Packers fans had not been accustomed to halftime adjustments in recent years. Previously, Green Bay’s defense often struggled and allowed big plays time after time in the second half. The former defensive coordinator seemed frozen, as if doing the mannequin challenge.
Hafley built his reputation as a defensive back developer during his time at Ohio State. He transformed Jeff Okudah into a third overall pick. Xavier McKinney leads the NFL in interceptions and is on track for All-Pro honors. Evan Williams is the best rookie safety in the league this year. Javon Bullard consistently makes impactful plays against the run.
The Packers’ defense has also improved against the run this season. They currently rank 2nd in the NFL for average rushing yards before contact allowed. Last year, they ranked 22nd in this same statistic.
Hafley becomes increasingly creative each week with his simulated pressure looks. He positioned Edgerrin Cooper as a mug linebacker, then dropped him back over 50 yards in coverage to secure a pass breakup. Xavier McKinney rushed from the edge and got a sack. Meanwhile, Hafley moved Rashan Gary around the line, which made C.J. Stroud’s life miserable in the pocket. After Week 5, the Packers ranked as the best defense in the league for pressuring quarterbacks when sending five rushers, according to Next Gen Stats.
Despite improvements, certain areas still need work. Green Bay struggles to generate pressure from the edge consistently. The team also has difficulty defending the middle of the field. Regardless, it’s impossible to look at the Packers’ defense and not notice significant growth.
Fans should hope that the players continue improving throughout the season. With November approaching, there is ample time to correct these mistakes. Addressing these issues now could enhance their chances for a playoff run.
