Green Bay Packers fans are voicing their frustration with the team’s defensive coordinator, Joe Barry. Despite having some talented players on the defensive side of the ball, Barry has struggled to maximize their potential. In a game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday night, the Packers’ defense allowed a touchdown in which Jakobi Meyers had a clear path to catch the ball, sparking outrage among fans on social media who are calling for Barry’s dismissal.
Joe Barry’s tenure with the Packers is unique in his coaching career. This marks his third season as the team’s defensive coordinator, a longer stint than he has had with previous teams. In the past, Barry had short-lived tenures as a defensive coordinator with the Detroit Lions from 2007 to 2008, during which his defenses ranked last in yards allowed for both seasons. However, some argue that the Lions were in a dire situation, finishing one season with a winless record of 0-16.
After his time with the Lions, Barry transitioned to linebackers coaching roles with various teams before becoming a defensive coordinator with Washington in 2015. Once again, he lasted just two seasons, with his defenses ranking 28th in yards allowed for both years. This time, there was no excuse of a weak roster, as was the case in Detroit.
Following his departure from Washington, Barry found success as a linebackers coach with the Los Angeles Rams, where he was part of a Super Bowl team. This success led Packers head coach Matt LaFleur to take a chance on Barry when he replaced Mike Pettine.
The frustration among Packers fans stems from the fact that Joe Barry has excelled as a linebackers coach, even winning a Super Bowl, but has yet to find the same success as a defensive coordinator. Compounding the frustration is the knowledge that Ejiro Evero, another capable candidate, was available at the same time.
If the Packers’ defensive struggles persist throughout the season, head coach Matt LaFleur may have no choice but to part ways with Joe Barry and explore other options for the team’s defensive leadership.
