Report: Packers to interview Wisconsin defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard

A young, rising star in the collegiate coaching ranks will get his shot to impress the professional team in his home state.

According to Rob Demovsky of ESPN, the Packers will interview Wisconsin defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard on Tuesday or Wednesday for their open defensive coordinator job.

Leonhard is among a group of five others expected to interview with Matt LaFleur for the job over the next two days.

Leonhard’s story is well-known in the state. He grew up in Wisconsin and later starred for the Badgers as a walk-on before enjoying a successful, 10-year NFL career. For the last four years, Leonhard has been the defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach at his alma mater, leading Wisconsin’s dominant defense to new heights and solidifying himself as one of the best and brightest young coaches in the college game.

According to Leonhard’s profile on Wisconsin’s official football page, the Badgers defense ranked third in the nation in scoring, fourth in total yards, fifth in rushing defense, fifth in passing efficiency, second in turnovers and second in interceptions over the last four years.

The Packers are attempting to replace Mike Pettine, who actually coached Leonhard for six of his 10 seasons in the NFL. The opportunity to keep some continuity in the scheme while adding a fresh face to the defense could be attractive to LaFleur.

The others expected to interview, according to Demovsky, are Browns defensive line coach Chris Kiffin, Saints defensive line coach Ryan Nielson, Eagles defensive line coach Matt Burke and Packers defensive backs coach Jerry Gray.

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