Packers HC Matt LaFleur sending devastating message to team by not firing DC Joe Barry
Watching the Green Bay Packers’ last two games would lead one to believe that they had faced up against Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tommy Devito of the New York Giants, two quarterbacks who are sure to be Hall of Famers.
Devito led the Giants to victory on “Monday Night Football” by completing 17 of 21 passes for 158 yards and one touchdown with 71 rushing yards (and no sacks). The Green Bay defense was unable to stop him.
The Packers’ dismal defensive effort against Mayfield and the Bucs is comparable. With a passing rating of 158.3, he completed 22 of 28 passes for 381 yards and four touchdowns. At Lambeau Field, he’s the first visiting quarterback to ever receive a perfect passer rating.
It’s been spoiled now by defensive coordinator Joe Barry’s unit.
Thus, isn’t this the ideal moment to let Barry go?
This season has been all about development, and one thing we know for sure is that Barry has failed to make the most of the abundance of quality general manager Brian Gutekunst has selected for his defense for the past two seasons.
Even though his team might not be able to make the playoffs this year, head coach Matt LaFleur can still leave a lasting impression on his young teammates: perform up to the expectations of playing in Green Bay, or risk losing your job.
However, it doesn’t seem like LaFleur is ready to take that step just yet.
When asked if he would consider changing coordinators during the season after the loss to Tampa, LaFleur replied, “Yeah, to be honest with you, now’s not the time for that.”
Why not?
Since this isn’t the right moment. I need to go back and watch the movie because I’m looking for answers,” LaFleur said.
It’s important to note that LaFleur does not have to fire Barry in order to choose a new defensive coordinator for 2024 because his contract expires after this season.
Having said that, LaFleur’s inaction in this case could tell his youthful, eager team a lot.
