With three games remaining in the 2023 NFL regular season, Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry is aware of his grave condition in Wisconsin. The Packers may have a few more postseason games to play this winter, but Barry’s defenses in the previous two games have harmed their playoff hopes.
After the Packers’ Week 15 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, things reportedly became tense in the locker room. Matt LaFleur, the head coach, met with members of the defense to discuss issues with the scheme and staff. Players “dodged” queries about whether Barry’s staff was preparing them for success.
Joe Barry is concerned that the Packers may terminate him at the end of the season.
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This week, Packers beat writers have been loud in their belief that Barry is on the hot seat. During a press conference on Thursday, Barry stated that this week had been difficult for him and his family. Barry confirmed to Ryan Wood of USA Today that he is on the hot seat for the rest of the season:
“Oh, yes.” I read what you guys have to say. I get what you’re saying. But that’s the wonderful thing about our league: it’s the best of the best.”
The Packers’ defense is currently the poorest of the bad. In Week 14, the Packers surrendered against backup quarterback Tommy DeVito on the last drive, falling to the New York Giants. In Week 15, they gave Baker Mayfield a flawless passer rating en way to a 34-20 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Barry understands that in order for him to keep his job, the Packers must make the playoffs. This season, the Packers’ defense carried them to victory at times. However, they are suddenly losing games and possibly the season.
That is too much for Barry to bear.
