Jaguars hire Packers' Anthony Campanile as defensive coordinator

Shreeaa Rathi | TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Jan 31, 2025, 21:49 IST
Jaguars hire Green Bay assistant Anthony Campanile as defensive coordinator
( Image credit : AP )
The Jacksonville Jaguars have hired Anthony Campanile, former Packers linebackers coach, as their new defensive coordinator. Head coach Liam Coen praised Campanile's aggressive defensive mindset and adaptability. With experience from stints with the Dolphins and Packers, Campanile is expected to significantly strengthen Jacksonville's defense, aiming to turn around their inconsistent performance from last season.


The Jacksonville Jaguars have made a significant move in their coaching staff by hiring Green Bay Packers linebackers coach and run game coordinator Anthony Campanile as their new defensive coordinator. Jaguars head coach Liam Coen expressed confidence in Campanile's ability to transform the team's defensive unit.

"Anthony Campanile represents exactly what we want to be as a defensive unit and football team," Coen stated on Thursday. "He brings an aggressive defensive mindset and a system that is adaptable to our players and allows them to play fast and physical."

Campanile’s appointment follows an extensive search that included interviews with several high-profile candidates, including Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, Minnesota Vikings pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach Daronte Jones, and Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator and assistant head coach Aubrey Pleasant.

A Proven Defensive Mind

At 42, Campanile brings a wealth of experience to Jacksonville. He has spent the last five seasons as an NFL assistant coach, beginning with the Miami Dolphins as their linebackers coach from 2020 to 2023 before joining the Packers last season. Under his guidance, Green Bay ranked seventh in the NFL in rushing defense, allowing just 99.4 yards per game, and finished third in the league in yards per carry allowed at 4.0.

His impact was also evident in Miami, where the Dolphins' defense ranked among the best in stopping the run during his tenure. From 2020 to 2023, Miami allowed an average of 4.2 yards per carry, ranking 10th in the NFL, and just 106.4 rushing yards per game, the sixth-best mark over that span.

A Journey Through Coaching Ranks

Campanile’s coaching journey began at the high school level in New Jersey, where he spent six years, including five seasons at Don Bosco Prep—three as defensive coordinator and two as offensive coordinator. In 2012, he transitioned to the college ranks, joining Rutgers as a defensive assistant and later coaching tight ends and wide receivers during his four-year stint.

He further honed his coaching expertise at Boston College from 2016 to 2018 before a brief tenure at Michigan. His move to the NFL came in 2020 when he joined Brian Flores’ staff in Miami.

What This Means for the Jaguars

The Jaguars are looking to strengthen their defense after an inconsistent season. With Campanile’s track record of improving run defenses and maximizing player potential, Jacksonville hopes he can bring the same intensity and effectiveness to their defensive unit.

As the Jaguars continue their offseason preparations, all eyes will be on how Campanile molds his defensive scheme to fit the team's roster. If his past success is any indication, Jacksonville’s defense could take a significant step forward in the upcoming season.



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