Packers hire Joe Barry as defensive coordinator

The Green Bay Packers have hired Joe Barry as their next defensive coordinator.

Barry was one of nine known candidates for the position and technically comes to the Packers by way of the Los Angeles Chargers. He’s only been with the Chargers for a little over two weeks though, having joined the team as a member of Brandon Staley’s staff when Staley was hired as the team’s head coach.

Prior to that, Barry had been a member of the Los Angeles Rams’ staff, serving under Staley as the team’s linebackers coach while also working as the Rams’ assistant head coach.

Barry has also previously worked as a defensive coordinator, working in that capacity for the Lions from 2007-08 and for the Washington Football Team from 2015-16. His teams were unimpressive during both his stints as a coordinator: he’s never led a defense that finished ranked better than 28th in the league in yards allowed or higher than 17th in scoring.

However, Barry is probably in a better situation talent-wise than he’s ever been before. Between Jaire Alexander, Kenny Clark, Za’Darius Smith, Darnell Savage, and Rashan Gary, the Packers have an exciting and talented core and, under the right guidance, could blossom into a very promising unit.

The news of the Packers’ selection was first reported by ESPN’s Rob Demovsky.

Barry’s relationship with Sean McVay and Brandon Staley — regarded as some of the brightest in the business — also speaks well to his abilities. Even if he hasn’t necessarily shined bright in big opportunities before, two well-regarded coaches have wanted to have him around — though it should be noted that McVay passed over him twice when selecting a defensive coordinator. Perhaps the third time will be the charm. The Packers are counting on it.