Packers coach Matt LaFleur’s cryptic response on Joe Barry’s future

Following the Green Bay Packers’ 24-21 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Divisional Round, speculation regarding potential changes within Matt LaFleur’s coaching staff emerged as a prominent topic surrounding the team. This scrutiny extended to Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry, who was appointed by LaFleur in February 2021.

During a press conference on Monday, LaFleur anticipated inquiries about his coaching staff, particularly Joe Barry’s future with the team. He acknowledged the likelihood of long-term, big-picture questions and emphasized that the evaluation process had just begun.

“I’m not there yet, fellas. Like I said, we’re just starting the process… But we’re just going into the evaluation portion right now,” stated LaFleur.

The Packers coach disclosed plans for meetings with his assistants and coordinators later in the day. Notably, he expressed patience in making decisions about the coaching staff’s future, especially concerning Joe Barry.

“Just going to go through the process at my own pace,” remarked Matt LaFleur, as reported by Rob Demovsky of ESPN.

The approach taken by LaFleur appears intriguing, particularly when juxtaposed with his tone following the conclusion of Green Bay’s season in Week 18 last year.

“I don’t really anticipate a whole lot, if any, staff changes at all,” LaFleur had asserted last year. “Certainly, I think there’s a lot of things that all of us can improve upon, most notably myself. But I do believe in the people, not only in the locker room but our coaching staff.”

The ambiguity surrounding LaFleur’s recent comments has sparked debate among Packers fans, with some advocating for Joe Barry’s dismissal since last year. The evolving situation leaves room for speculation about the future composition of the coaching staff and the decisions that lie ahead for the Green Bay Packers.