Noah Pauley, previously the wide receivers coach at Penn State, has accepted the same role with the Green Bay Packers, sources confirmed as of February 2026. This hire adds a promising young coach to Green Bay’s staff, aiming to further develop the team’s receiving corps under head coach Matt LaFleur.
Track Record of Developing Top NFL Draft Talent
Pauley has earned a strong reputation for nurturing future NFL talent, having coached receivers who were selected in the early rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, including Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel from Iowa State. Most notably, he has worked closely with current Packers wide receiver Christian Watson, a North Dakota State alumnus, demonstrating Pauley’s ability to prepare players for professional success.
Coaching Journey and Previous Roles
Before joining Penn State, Pauley spent several years at Iowa State, following Matt Campbell’s transition to Happy Valley during the offseason. His background also includes coaching at North Dakota State from 2019 to 2022, where he helped establish the program as a powerhouse in the FCS. Additionally, he was the offensive coordinator at Minnesota-Duluth from 2016 to 2018. Pauley has even interviewed for the offensive coordinator position with the San Francisco 49ers, showcasing his growing recognition in NFL circles.
Joining Matt LaFleur’s Coaching Staff
Serving as the Packers’ wide receivers coach, Pauley reunites with Christian Watson, strengthening the connection between player and coach. His introduction to the media came just one day after the entire Packers coaching staff was presented publicly, indicating the team’s commitment to enhancing its offensive coaching lineup.
“The #Packers are hiring Penn State’s Noah Pauley as wide receivers coach, sources tell @CBSSports. Rising star who interviewed for the 49ers OC job last year. Has developed future top three round draft picks like Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel and current Packer Christian Watson.” ?Matt Zenitz, CBS Sports
The #Packers are hiring Penn State’s Noah Pauley as wide receivers coach, sources tell @CBSSports.
Rising star who interviewed for the 49ers OC job last year. Has developed future top three round draft picks like Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel and current Packer Christian Watson. pic.twitter.com/tHdMLIwZD6
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 5, 2026
