Packers: 3 replacements for DC Mike Pettine after NFC Championship defeat
By Scott Rogust
Big Ten. Jim Leonhard. 2.. player. 809. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Wisconsin
The Packers should explore all options if they are to hand Pettine his walking papers. How about at the college level? More specifically, at Wisconsin defensive coordinator and former NFL safety Jim Leonhard? Did we piques your interest, Packers fans?
Leonhard had a 10-year playing career as a journeyman defensive back. After officially retiring from the NFL after a short stint with the Cleveland Browns in 2014, Leonhard joined his alma mater to be the Badgers’ defensive backs coach in 2016. After one year under his belt, head coach Paul Chryst promoted him to defensive coordinator and has held that position ever since.
If you’re wondering how good Leonhard is, just look at how they ranked against the hundreds of other FBS program. Wisconsin allowed 299.9 yards per game to opposing offenses (fifth-fewest in the nation) and just 14 offensive touchdowns (tied-sixth) in seven games, all per NCAA.com. That’s simply impressive. But if you’re not convinced by the seven-game slate, just look at last season.
In 2019, Wisconsin’s defense allowed 287.1 yards per game (fourth-fewest) through 14 games. In the Big Ten conference that just so happens to be home to Ohio State.
The Packers need to call Leonhard and ask what it would take for him to make a jump to the NFL.