Packers Set to Interview Eagles’ Christian Parker for Defensive Coordinator Role
GREEN BAY, January 22, 2026 – The Green Bay Packers are moving quickly to replace defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, turning their attention to a familiar face with a rising reputation. Philadelphia Eagles defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator Christian Parker is scheduled to interview for the vacancy this week, following a similar meeting with the Dallas Cowboys.
A Busy Interview Schedule
According to multiple reports, including from NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Parker’s week is booked with coordinator interviews. The 34-year-old coach is set to meet with the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday, January 21, regarding their open defensive coordinator position. Immediately following that, he is scheduled to travel to Green Bay to interview with Packers head coach Matt LaFleur for the same role.
The Packers’ need for a new defensive play-caller arose suddenly after Jeff Hafley was hired as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins on Monday, January 19.
Parker’s Path and Packers Connection
An interview with Green Bay would represent a homecoming for Parker. He began his NFL coaching career with the Packers in 2019, hired by then-defensive coordinator Mike Pettine to serve as a defensive quality control coach on Matt LaFleur’s inaugural staff. He spent two seasons in Green Bay before moving to the Denver Broncos as their defensive backs coach from 2021 to 2023.
Parker joined the Eagles in 2024, coinciding with the arrival of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. In Philadelphia, he holds the dual role of defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator and has been widely credited for the rapid development of young cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, both of whom earned first-team All-Pro honors in the 2025 season.
Proven Track Record with Secondaries
Parker has built a reputation as an exceptional developer of defensive back talent. His resume includes working with All-Pro players across multiple teams:
| Team | Notable Players Developed |
|---|---|
| Green Bay Packers (2019-20) | Jaire Alexander (early career) |
| Denver Broncos (2021-23) | Patrick Surtain II (All-Pro), Justin Simmons (All-Pro) |
| Philadelphia Eagles (2024-Present) | Quinyon Mitchell (All-Pro), Cooper DeJean (All-Pro) |
Under his guidance, the Eagles’ pass defense ranked first in the NFL during their Super Bowl-winning 2024 campaign and finished eighth in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Packers interested in Christian Parker?
The Packers are seeking a replacement for the departed Jeff Hafley and appear to be prioritizing coaches with a background in developing defensive backs, following the trend set by Hafley himself. Parker’s proven success in Philadelphia, combined with his existing familiarity with Head Coach Matt LaFleur and the Packers organization from his time as a quality control coach, makes him a logical candidate.
Has Parker been a defensive coordinator before?
No. This would be Parker’s first NFL defensive coordinator position. He has served as a defensive backs coach and, most recently, as a passing game coordinator, which involves significant schematic planning and game preparation.
When is the interview scheduled?
Parker is scheduled to interview with the Packers on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, after first interviewing with the Dallas Cowboys for their defensive coordinator opening.