A major reshuffle within the Green Bay Packers coaching staff is underway, with a key new hire confirmed and a vital offensive assistant now at serious risk of being poached by a conference rival. These simultaneous developments mark a critical juncture for Head Coach Matt LaFleur’s staff as the organization builds toward the 2026 season.
The Packers have moved to fill their linebackers coach vacancy, finalizing an agreement with Sam Cifus according to a report from Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports. Cifus, a Wisconsin native, most recently served as the defensive coordinator at Virginia Tech and brings prior experience working under new Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon during their time together with the Arizona Cardinals.
This connection to Gannon’s system is viewed as a primary asset in the hiring. Cifus possesses an intimate understanding of the defensive schemes and coaching philosophies the new DC is expected to implement. His career path includes collegiate defensive coordinator roles at Virginia Tech, Wingate, and Wisconsin-Platteville before breaking into the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings in 2021.
While the hire provides valuable continuity, it has been met with measured optimism rather than overwhelming enthusiasm. Some analysts expressed a preference for Nick Rallis, Gannon’s defensive coordinator in Arizona, believing he represented a more seamless and experienced fit for the role. The departure of previous coach Shawn Duggan was seen by some as an opportunity for a clear upgrade.
The evaluation of the Cifus acquisition hinges on his familiarity with Gannon’s vision versus his direct NFL coaching pedigree. His experience as a play-caller at the collegiate level, however, adds another voice with coordinator experience to a defensive staff seeking an identity. The move solidifies one piece of the coaching puzzle but arrives amid a more pressing threat to the offensive side of the ball.
A potentially destabilizing scenario is unfolding in Philadelphia, where the Eagles’ offensive coordinator search has directly targeted Packers quarterbacks coach Sean Manion. Following a second interview with former Tampa Bay Buccaneers OC Josh Griesard, Manion remains a legitimate candidate for the position, as reported by Jordan Schultz.
The Eagles’ prolonged search, after being rejected by several top candidates, has intensified their interest in the young Packers assistant. Manion is held in exceptionally high regard within the Green Bay organization, famously handpicked to succeed legendary QB coach Tom Clements and viewed internally as a future head coach.
His appeal to Philadelphia is obvious; he is a bright, young mind from the prestigious Shanahan-LaFleur coaching tree. The prospect of losing him is a significant concern for Green Bay’s offensive continuity and the development of their young quarterback room. Manion’s potential departure would create a substantial void.
This threat has sparked debate among observers and fans, with some advocating for a preemptive strike by the Packers. One proposed solution is a promotion from within, suggesting Green Bay could elevate Manion to offensive coordinator, replacing Adam Stenavich, to secure his services long-term and block the Eagles’ pursuit.
The stakes of retaining Manion cannot be overstated. He is a central figure in the technical development of the team’s most important asset and a carrier of the offensive culture. Losing him to an NFC contender would be a dual blow, strengthening a rival while depleting Green Bay’s own coaching capital.
As the front office navigates these staffing tensions, injury projections for key players loom over the upcoming offseason program. Independent analysis suggests several starters, including linebacker Micah Parsons, tight end Tucker Kraft, and offensive lineman Zach Tom, could potentially begin the regular season on the Physically Unable to Perform list.
While such designations are speculative months in advance, they underscore the challenging roster calculus General Manager Brian Gutekunst must manage. Potential early-season absences would thrust untested depth players into immediate, critical roles, testing the team’s resilience and developmental programs from the opening whistle.
The confluence of these events—a new defensive hire, a fierce battle to retain offensive expertise, and long-term health questions—defines a complex offseason moment for the Packers. Each decision carries weight for the team’s competitive trajectory, making the stability and quality of LaFleur’s staff a paramount concern.
With the defensive staff taking shape under Gannon and Cifus, the organization’s immediate focus must now shift to fortifying the offensive brain trust. The coming days will reveal whether the Packers can successfully defend their coaching ranks from a determined rival, ensuring the system around their franchise quarterback remains intact for the crucial seasons ahead.
