The Green Bay Packers finished the season 8-9 and missed the playoffs for the first time under head coach Matt LaFleur. Joe Barry, the team’s defensive coordinator, received plenty of blame from fans all season long. However, it appears that the team’s four-game win streak late in the season was enough to save Barry’s job. According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, the team’s coaches have concluded their immediate work and have headed home until February 13.
Joe Barry “Almost Surely” Will Return to the Packers in 2023
Earlier on Monday morning, Demovsky tweeted out the following:
The Packers coaches concluded their immediate after the season work last week and now off until Feb. 13.
There were no major changes, meaning Joe Barry will almost surely return as Matt LaFleur suggested right after the season.
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) January 23, 2023
Under Joe Barry’s leadership, the Packers defense finished 2022 with these rankings:
- 34 sacks (28th)
- 17 interceptions (fifth)
- 12 forced fumbles (21st)
- 2,372 rushing yards allowed (27th)
- Five yards per carry allowed (29th)
- 18 rushing touchdowns allowed (24th)
- 3,349 passing yards allowed (sixth)
- 22 passing touchdowns allowed (11th)
- Seven passing yards per attempt (27th)
It is notable that Barry may be losing one of his best coaches this offseason as well. Jerry Gray, who coaches the Packers’ defensive backs and is the passing game coordinator, has interviewed for the defensive coordinator position with the Atlanta Falcons. The Chicago Bears also have requested permission to interview Gray.
The pass defense was, for the most part, the strength of the Packers’ overall defense last season. If Gray decides to leave, it will be interesting to see how those numbers change in 2023.
For More Great Wisconsin Sports Content
Follow me on Twitter at @theotherRobin19 and follow us @WiSportsHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports, click here!
