Report: Packers expected to target Pat Fitzgerald for HC vacancy

The Green Bay Packers are in the midst of an extensive search to replace Mike McCarthy and are expected to target Northwestern's Pat Fitzgerald for their head coaching vacancy, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The Packers will conduct a wide-ranging search, Rapoport adds, that could include 10-12 candidates. Interim head coach Joe Philbin will receive an interview, but is not expected to receive the full-time position.

Fitzgerald has ties to the organization, as CEO Mark Murphy hired the Wildcats' boss when he was the school's athletic director.

The 44-year-old is a hot name in both NFL and NCAA coaching circles, as he's compiled a 35-17 record over his last four seasons, including a first-place finish in the Big Ten West in 2018. He has coached Northwestern since 2006.

Jim Caldwell and Chuck Pagano have also been linked to Green Bay's head coaching job, reportedly interviewing with the team already.

McCarthy was fired earlier in December after 13 seasons.