The Green Bay Packers are at a crossroads, and it’s a moment that could define their future. After the unexpected departure of Rich Bisaccia, the team’s long-standing special teams coordinator, Matt LaFleur is under pressure to find a replacement who can turn around a unit that’s been plagued by inconsistency and game-changing blunders for years. But here’s where it gets tricky: the 2026 offseason hiring cycle is nearly over, and most top candidates have already been snapped up by other teams. The Packers are left sifting through the remaining options, hoping to find a diamond in the rough.
Bisaccia’s decision to step down more than a month after the 2025 season ended has left the Packers in a tough spot. Time is ticking, and while there’s no direct competition from other teams for the same role, LaFleur can’t afford to rush this hire. The special teams unit has been a weak link for far too long, and the new coordinator will need to bring both expertise and a fresh perspective to the table. And this is the part most people miss: special teams may not grab headlines like offense or defense, but it’s often the difference between winning and losing in the NFL.
So, who’s in the running? Packers Wire is keeping a close eye on the interviews, and here’s a breakdown of the candidates:
Cameron Achord
- Report: Bill Huber of SI.com highlights Achord as a standout candidate, having led the NFL’s top-ranked special teams unit during his tenure with the Patriots.
- Current Position: Unemployed, but with a resume that speaks volumes.
- Experience: Achord served as the assistant special teams coach for the Giants (2024-25) and held the coordinator role for the Patriots (2020-23), where he worked alongside Demarcus Covington—a connection that could play in his favor with the Packers.
Kyle Wilbur
- Report: According to SI.com, Wilbur’s name has surfaced as a potential fit, thanks to his unique blend of coaching and playing experience.
- Current Position: Assistant special teams coach for the Saints (2025).
- Experience: Wilbur spent a decade as an NFL linebacker, playing under Rich Bisaccia with the Cowboys and Raiders. He also has familiarity with Green Bay, having served as a quality control coach under Bisaccia in 2023-24.
Tom McMahon
- Report: SI.com notes that McMahon’s extensive experience could make him a strong contender, despite his recent unemployment.
- Last Job: Special teams coordinator for the Raiders (2022-25), where he stepped into the role after Bisaccia’s departure.
- Experience: McMahon’s resume is impressive, with stints as a special teams coordinator for the Rams (2009-11), Chiefs (2012), Colts (2013-17), and Broncos (2018-21). He’s also worked with notable figures like Brandon McManus and Jonathan Gannon, adding to his credibility.
The Bigger Picture
This hire isn’t just about filling a vacancy—it’s about reshaping the Packers’ identity. Special teams have been a source of frustration for fans and a liability for the team for far too long. Can LaFleur find someone who can turn this unit into a strength? And here’s a thought-provoking question: With the pool of candidates limited, is it better to take a risk on an unproven coach with potential or play it safe with a seasoned veteran? Let us know what you think in the comments—this is a decision that could shape the Packers’ future for years to come.
