Packers: 10 candidates to know for defensive coordinator

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 29: Defensive coordinator Wade Phillips for the Los Angeles Rams looks on prior to a gam against the Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 29, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 15: Za’Darius Smith #55 of the Green Bay Packers lines up for a play in the third quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lambeau Field on November 15, 2020 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

Jerry Gray

If LaFleur decides to promote from within these two guys are likely his primary targets. Jerry Gray, the Packers’ defensive backs coach, is held in high esteem and has done good work with the likes of Jaire Alexander and Darnell Savage this season. He also has previous coordinator experience with the Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans–a plus for a Packers’ squad who wants to win immediately.

Mike Smith

Another internal candidate is Mike Smith, the outside linebackers coach. Smith has been with the organization for two years now and was an assistant coach with the Kansas City Chiefs before that. Rashan Gary has seen positive development under Smith’s watch and Za’Darius Smith has taken the step to stardom since coming to Green Bay.

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