GREEN BAY, Wis. - The Green Bay Packers hired former Bengals defensive coordinator Mark Duffner as their new linebackers coach Thursday.

Duffner, a 28-year coaching veteran, replaces Bo Pelini, who resigned this month to serve as the University of Nebraska's defensive coordinator.

Duffner recently interviewed for the Bengals head coaching job that went to Marvin Lewis. He said he then had a conversation with Lewis about staying in Cincinnati and decided "it was probably better for me to move on to another situation."

Green Bay was a perfect fit because Duffner and Packers coach and general manager Mike Sherman go way back.

Sherman joined the Holy Cross staff as offensive line coach in 1985, the year before Duffner became head coach there. Sherman then worked for Duffner for three more seasons.

Duffner interviewed with Sherman on Monday and Tuesday but wouldn't say who initiated contact.

"There was some interest on both sides," Duffner said.

Sherman said Duffner "has a tireless work ethic, a passion for the game and an internal desire to coach here in Green Bay. I have complete confidence he will impact not only our linebackers but our defense and team as well."

Duffner was Cincinnati's linebackers coach from 1997-2000 before being promoted to defensive coordinator in 2001. Over his two-year span as coordinator, the team allowed 315.5 yards per game, the club's lowest two-year total since 1987-88.

The addition of Duffner gives the Packers' staff eight coaches with experience as an NFL offensive or defensive coordinator (joining Sherman, Larry Beightol, Sylvester Croom, Ed Donatell, Tom Rossley, Ray Sherman and Bob Slowik).

Prior to joining the Bengals staff, Duffner was head coach at the University of Maryland from 1992-96, compiling a 20-35 record.

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