Green Bay Packers Make Key Coaching Moves to Strengthen Their Staff

The Green Bay Packers entered the offseason with two crucial coaching positions to fill. Now, they are on the verge of finalizing both hires. According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, the Packers plan to bring in DeMarcus Covington as their defensive line coach while promoting Sean Mannion to quarterbacks coach. These moves signal a strategic effort to reinforce both the defensive front and the quarterback room, ensuring a well-rounded coaching staff for the upcoming season.

Revamping the Defensive Line

Following an underwhelming season, the Packers decided to part ways with defensive line coach Jason Rebrovich. Rebrovich, previously a pass rush specialist, was in charge of the entire defensive line for the first time in Green Bay. The results did not meet expectations, prompting the team to seek a fresh approach.

Enter DeMarcus Covington, a highly regarded coach with deep NFL experience. At just 35 years old, Covington has already built an impressive resume, having spent his entire NFL coaching career with the New England Patriots since 2017. He quickly rose through the ranks, moving from coaching assistant to outside linebackers coach, then defensive line coach, and ultimately serving as defensive coordinator under Jerod Mayo. His Super Bowl-winning experience as an assistant adds credibility to his ability to develop a dominant defensive front.

The Packers also considered several other candidates for the role, including New York Jets defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton (who joined the Dallas Cowboys), Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive line coach and run game coordinator Kacy Rodgers (who signed with the Detroit Lions), and former Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washington. Ultimately, Covington’s extensive defensive expertise made him the standout choice.

A New Leader for the Quarterbacks

Replacing retired quarterbacks coach Tom Clements was an expected move, and the Packers are looking to one of their own to step up. Offensive assistant Sean Mannion is set to be promoted to quarterbacks coach, a decision that underscores Green Bay’s confidence in his coaching potential.

Mannion, 32, brings a wealth of firsthand NFL experience. Over nine seasons, he played quarterback for the St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, and Seattle Seahawks. Though his playing career did not make headlines, his deep understanding of the game and ability to mentor young quarterbacks have made him a rising star in the coaching world.

His potential was evident when the Packers beat out interest from several teams, including the Chicago Bears, to hire him as an offensive assistant last season. Now, just one year later, he has earned a significant promotion. The team is expected to keep Connor Lewis as assistant quarterbacks coach, a role that also involves in-game management, while Luke Getsy remains a senior offensive assistant.

While the Packers had not previously conducted interviews for the quarterbacks coach position, they were required to meet with at least one external minority candidate to comply with the Rooney Rule. Nevertheless, the decision to elevate Mannion reflects the organization’s commitment to developing talent from within.

The Packers’ Coaching Staff Takes Shape

With these key coaching moves, the Packers are nearing the completion of their offseason staff restructuring. While offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich and defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley both interviewed for jobs elsewhere, neither secured a new role, keeping them in Green Bay. Defensive passing game coordinator Derrick Ansley also explored external opportunities but remains with the team.

One remaining question is whether linebackers coach and run game coordinator Anthony Campanile will depart. He recently interviewed for the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defensive coordinator position, and his future with the Packers is still uncertain. Should he leave, the Packers may need to make additional adjustments to their coaching staff.

As the offseason progresses, Green Bay’s focus will shift toward preparing for the upcoming season with a revitalized coaching staff. With Covington’s defensive expertise and Mannion’s quarterback knowledge, the Packers are positioning themselves for success in the years ahead.