Jonathan Gannon Has A Shot At His Own Personal Redemption Arc.

Gannon can rewrite history, and prove his doubters wrong. 

While the Packers are in the middle of a massive coaching changeover, there is still time to stop and ponder the new man at the top of the defense. 

We all know the story: Johnathan Gannon takes over as defensive coordinator for the newly departed Jeff Hafley. He brings with him a wealth of experience at defensive coordinator. He’s been able to put together an impressive string of coaching staff changes as well. I look forward to his introductory press conference in Green Bay, for a better idea of the man and the mindset he brings with him to the Packers. There is something bubbling just below the surface, whether he acknowledges it or not. 

While he is in Green Bay, Gannon has a shot at his own personal redemption arc. And it might be his last. 

Let’s be clear: the Packers did take a risk in bringing Gannon in. Green Bay is betting that Gannon’s experience will ensure a clean transition from one system to another, while in an extremely crucial year of a championship window. Typically, those kinds of scheme changes can take up to a year to really sink into the roster and become effective. The Packers don’t have that kind of time. In his first season with Green Bay, Gannon must: circumnavigate the lack of firepower at CB and maximize the talents of Micah Parsons while cleaning up the defensive line around him, all while effectively installing his own system. 

The Packers’ confidence in his ability to do this is why Gannon is in this position. Surely he demonstrated his plan for all that to the Packers during the interview process. If he can pull it off, Gannon might earn himself a shot to prove that the disastrous tenure in Arizona was just a pit stop. 

It was only three years ago that Gannon stood on the sidelines of Super Bowl LVII, as the Eagles held a 24-14 lead at halftime. His unit had effectively stymied Patrick Mahomes and the vaunted Chiefs offense to a pair of touchdowns. But it all fell apart from there. Gannon’s defense allowed 24 unanswered points to the Chiefs, and became only the second team in Super Bowl history to blow a double digit halftime lead. 

Gannon was introduced as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals mere days later, a move which raised more than a few eyebrows around the league. It was later revealed that the Cardinals had interviewed Gannon during the no-contact week leading up to the Super Bowl. Arizona was fined draft picks for the move, but more importantly, it cast shade over Gannon’s entire tenure with the Eagles. Had he been too distracted by the Arizona interview to effectively prepare for the Chiefs that year? Ask any Eagles fan about Gannon now, and you’ll hear a lot of blame being laid at his feet for that loss. 

Now, I don't know to what extent all of that is true. But what we do have is one of Gannon’s teams being disappointed with the ultimate result of his tenure. Maybe that’s unfair to his total body of work. While Gannon was the DC of the Eagles in 2022, that defense was dominant. Second in total yards allowed, eighth in points allowed, and first in pass defense. Seventy sacks during the regular season, which was third most in NFL history at that point. Four different players with over ten sacks. It goes on. 

He had elite talent on that roster, sure. But he also gets credit for developing and maximizing that talent. Players like Darius Slay, Hasson Reddick, Brandon Graham and Josh Sweat had career years under Gannon. Players play, but coaches coach. Gannon’s resume in Philadelphia was more than enough to earn him a head coaching gig. 

It just… did not go well. While as head coach in Arizona, Gannon’s Cardinals finished with a 15-36 record, a .294 percentage that lands him as the 200th of 207 coaches with over 50 games under their belt. In 2025, they suffered what might be their worst season in the modern era. A 3-14 finish, 0-6 against their own division, and a franchise record, nine game losing streak. In fact, they lost fourteen of their last fifteen games. Gannon was fined $100,000 for taking a swing at his own player on the sidelines during a disastrous loss to the Tennessee Titans.

Gannon’s previously celebrated defense was 30th in several major categories: points allowed, yards allowed, sacks, and completion percentage. To be fair, this was while delegating play calling responsibilities to his own defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. More importantly, the Cardinals were one of the only teams this year that were hit harder by injuries than the Packers. By the end of the season, Arizona had 25 players listed on their season ending IR. Not to mention being handcuffed by his quarterback situation. 

Despite all that, Gannon was hired by the Packers mere weeks after being fired. So where does Gannon stand now? Is he the man who coached a #2 defense that reached the Super Bowl? Or is he the coach who just came off a 3-14 record, fought his own player, and lost the locker room? 

The answer is probably both. There are plenty of coaches who are really good at being a coordinator. Look at Josh McDaniels, who just coached an offense that reached the Super Bowl, despite failing massively at two separate head coaching stints. There’s Vic Fangio, Steve Spagnola, and countless others. Being a head coach is an entirely new skill set. While in Arizona, Gannon had to delegate play calling and struggled with game management and leading the locker room. 

But now that he’s back on the headset, calling plays and leading his own side of things? He’s got the receipts to prove he can get it done. Not only in Philly, but his rich history with franchises such as Indianapolis, Minnesota, Tennessee, and Atlanta. The Packers are betting that he can revert to this version of himself, and provide a top ten defense for the Packers championship run next season. 

If he can’t, it might not be hyperbole to say this would be his last shot. Coaches rarely get a third chance in the NFL, and despite only being 44 years old, the reputation might hold him back for the rest of his time in the NFL. 

But if Gannon can complete his redemption arc? If he can deliver on the defense’s potential, he can prove that his shortcomings were rooted in roster deficiencies rather than personal. He’ll assuredly get another shot at being a head coach in the process too. 

Personally, I’ll admit that Gannon was not among my first choices for the job. But the more I’ve researched the pairing, the more I like it. I like how his scheme fits with our roster, and I think he’s got a great shot to revitalize some shortcomings on the roster, particularly in the secondary. 

And now, I love that Gannon has personal stakes in the game. As fans, we love when players have a chip on their shoulder, and something to prove to their doubters. Now, we’ve got a coach that fits that mold too. Gannon has personal stakes in Green Bay’s success that lie beyond a performance bonus or contract extension. I hope we get this version of Gannon instead of this one

He’ll be instrumental to whatever outcome the Packers get out of the 2026 season. I can only hope that in a year from now, we can look back on this hire as the difference in what was a championship run for the Packers. 

 

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__________________________

Co-Owner of the thirteen time world champion Green Bay Packers. Sometimes I write about them. Follow me on Twitter at https://x.com/kjones_in_co and on Substack for film breakdowns!

__________________________

 

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Comments (106)

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T7Steve's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:14 am

"Coaches rarely get a third chance in the NFL" Unless you were a Packer like Mike McCarthy.

"I like how his scheme fits with our roster" What is his scheme? Maybe it's been mentioned here and I missed it, but I can't remember what scheme he runs.

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Cheezehead72's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:29 am

He stated that he does not run a particular scheme. He adjusts his scheme to fit the players and to defend against an offense. I like the idea as long as he does not make major changes each week and the players can grasp it.

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T7Steve's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:57 am

Thanks. I guess I did see the part about "no particular scheme". I guess that's ok since you want at least a good rotation of 4 up front that can do it all between the pass and run.

As we saw last night, if you can make a QB uncomfortable with four guys that the five on the O-line can't handle, you have a good recipe for victory. It doesn't hurt if the other OC only runs the ball about 13 times.

My biggest take for the new DC is that he has head coaching experience because Matt will be too busy planning for the offense to help him much.

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:54 am

I agree, while the Seahawks usually rely on a four-man rush to get home, they threw a major curveball during the first half at New England by blitzing frequently and with high efficiency. This aggressive shift clearly rattled Drake Maye, leaving him flustered and under constant pressure from the opening kickoff until Seattle finally backed off into a prevent defense late in the game.

The Patriots’ inability to establish the run further sealed their fate. Without a ground game to lean on, they became one-dimensional against one of the league’s elite defenses—a perfect recipe for the blowout that followed.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:18 am

"I agree, while the Seahawks usually rely on a four-man rush to get home, they threw a major curveball at New England by blitzing frequently and with high efficiency."

Yeah Murf, having your front four just stifle the run and get consistent pressure is the model if you have the players to do it. We are a run stuffer and a 2nd solid edge rusher from having it.

And I can't see our current CBs imitating either teams CBs in coverage or blitzing.

It was sure a bad reminder how good Gonzalez is and was in the draft. What a difference he would have made in GB this year. We do have a great chance to finally grab a solid CB at #52 or even moving back 15-20 spots. And I think we should Dbl down and grab a 2nd CB mid draft.

I was zeroing in on run stuffing DTs that might still be available between our 3rd & 4th round picks, Orange-Iowa State & Corleone-Cinn fit that criteria. But someone, maybe Stockholder, alerted me to Keenan-Alabama DT. He looks like the best run-stuffer and should be available between picks #84 & #120.

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gsd3's picture

February 09, 2026 at 01:54 pm

I would rather see them trade for T'Vondre Sweat.
#4 in the nfl against the run per PFF.
Does not fit Saleh's defense. They are in dire need on the OL. Possible Jenkins for Sweat swap?
Would remove an immediate need in the draft.

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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

February 09, 2026 at 01:47 pm

Adjusting to each opponent wins games. Bill Belichek made a career out of it. GB supposedly drafts smart people to be able to do this.

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BuckyBadger's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:41 am

"But what we do have is one of Gannon’s teams being disappointed with the ultimate result of his tenure. "

This isn't a true statement at all. I am sure some Eagles' fans where disappointed but to say the team was is completely unfounded. At some point the players need to take ownership of what goes on as well. Coaches don't play the game, the players do and I never heard any player blame Gannon for that Super Bowl.

It doesn't take 2 years to learn a system, these guys are suppose to be professionals. How many times have we seen a new coordinator come in and the unit either doesn't miss a beat or improve immediately? Some writers want to make it sound like they are splitting atoms out there. He has talent to work with and he has a good track record at a D-coordinator. I see no reason for the defense to be top 10 or even 5 when Parsons gets healthy.

Every coach needs talent to win. It isn't a coincidence that the new hot coordinators usually come from a team that has immense talent. Patrick Mahomes coordinators are being picked up and before him the coordinators for Tom Brady and Payton Manning where always the hot name. Most, if not all failed when they moved on to being a H.C. Fans lay far too much of the blame and credit on the coach. Andy Reid was said to have poor clock management, the game had passed him by, couldn't get over the hump and on a hot seat until Mahomes became his starter and now he is a genius. Funny how that works.

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Starrbrite's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:08 pm

Right —just how complicated can any defensive scheme be?
…As you say, not splitting atoms.

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NickPerry's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:42 am

"In his first season with Green Bay, Gannon must: circumnavigate the lack of firepower at CB and maximize the talents of Micah Parsons while cleaning up the defensive line around him, all while effectively installing his own system."

Well, I hope he can pull it off. I'm not sure how hard that will be considering his GM thinks Gary had a good season, ST is in good hands with Bissaci, and our kicker only had a bad outing in the Playoffs.

Honestly, I'm very concerned now about the Packers. I'm not sure what might happen now since the guy who drafts and is in charge of bringing in FA is friggen delusional!!!!

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T7Steve's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:03 am

"the guy who drafts and is in charge of bringing in FA is friggen delusional!!!"

Don't you think "at least hope" that he was just trying to make the best of it because there was nothing he could do about it at that moment?

Add to that. If he wants to trade and make a good deal wouldn't it be better to try to build up Gary rather than telling it like it is?

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Guam's picture

February 09, 2026 at 08:26 am

I wouldn't put too much stock in Gute's press conference musings NP. This is the same guy who went out of his way to praise Aaron Jones a couple of years ago and then promptly cut him. No GM in the league is going to openly and publicly criticize his players or coaches. That doesn't mean things aren't happening in the background.

I am not trying to praise Gute here, I have some very mixed feelings about his performance over the last eight years. I just don't pay attention to his press conferences musings - they seem more designed to mislead than elucidate.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:28 am

"I am not trying to praise Gute here; I just don't pay attention to his press conferences musings - they seem more designed to mislead than elucidate."

Me neither Guam, I am chalking it up to smokescreen or at least hoping so. If we are contemplating trading Gary, then GB surely doesn't want to trash him. It would almost be huge for grading his lack of performance if it came out he was hurt the 2nd half of the season.

All good organizations don't let their true feelings for players, FA or Draft, to be known in the off season.

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egbertsouse's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:14 am

After watching the Super Bowl it was clear that the Packers defense is light years behind either of those teams. One coaching change is not going to change that.

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BuckyBadger's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:22 am

The defense compared favorably up until they lost Parsons. Once healthy again they will be right there with them.

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jvole's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:25 am

They also dropped off significantly when Wyatt went down.

But the real take home for me, from the super bowl, is that our offensive line would have been ground into dust by that Seattle defensive front. That is our weakest link in the whole operation.

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T7Steve's picture

February 09, 2026 at 08:01 am

That's the only link that matters till you fix it. Then try everything else. Like last season the Bears concentrated on fixing their O-line. This season they undoubtedly will bolster their D-line to help out Sweat and the back end. It's not rocket science, but it seems these teams prioritize the shiny new deserts over the meat and potatoes.

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dobber's picture

February 09, 2026 at 03:54 pm

Bears are harder up against the cap than the Packers are. They'll be making holes too.

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 08:26 am

The D-line took a hit without Wyatt and Parsons, and Hobbs' injury history is the only thing holding him back from being a really good player. Green Bay’s defense has the pieces—All-Pros type of player at each level, with Parsons, Cooper and Mckinney and top-tier safeties. The missing link is a high-end DT. While we need a CB, building a front that can shut down the rushing attack and get home on the pass rush is the best way to help out the defensive backfield. I’d do what you have to and get a top tier DL and make a run with this D. Of course, you need to pick up a CB, but let’s face it, you won’t get a shut down one unless you get really lucky in the draft.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:41 am

Agree Egbert, WE are missing the ability to stop the run consistently and our CBs are below average.

Maybe Gannon can convince Calais Campbell to come to GB. It would be a short term 1-2 year fix until we got a new rookie up to speed. But Campbell brings run stuffing and interior pass rush (6 sack last year) at an almost elite level even at 40 years old. That would be a big upgrade and great start.

CBs is another elephant in the room that was kicked down the road. We are cash strapped right now so getting help in free agency would be a minor miracle. Cut Hobbs and save what we can save, he didn't and doesn't fit our NEED at boundary CB.

Maybe swing a trade for an average younger CB by dangling Luke Musgrave. I know he doesn't have big trade value, but maybe another team has a CB they don't need or aren't as thrilled with. I would scour teams that have new HCs or GMs. Other regimes draft picks are not sacred to them. In the same premise because of new coaching staff, trading for the Titans D'Vondre Sweat also could be an option to fill run stuffer. Maybe Musgrave for Sweat.

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Since'61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:55 am

Let's give Gannon a chance and he what he can do. We do know he can't help our OL and it was obvious last evening that even if the Packers had defeated the Bears they were not going to get past Seattle with their 2025 OL and make it to the SB. Seattle's defense would have eaten the Packers OL alive. Thanks, Since '61

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 08:12 am

You’re right ‘61, the Packers OL needs some major improvement. Obviously, NE needs the same thing, they were somewhat lucky on the injury front and getting an easy schedule during the year. They played their own weak division, the AFC North and NFC South. It’s unreal to think they got to the SB with Maye getting sacked 21 times in 4 playoff games. Just goes to show the SB doesn’t always get the best teams.

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dobber's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:25 am

I'm not a Pats fan--far from it--but let's not piss on what they did, regardless of their scheduling or who they had on the field to finish their season. They still won a buncha games and didn't spike themselves until the SB. Maye was a big part of it, but he made too many mistakes last night. People seem to go after scheduling a lot, but it falls on deaf ears for teams that win the games to reach or win the SB.

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:39 am

You're right, Dobber, I wish the Packers could find that mojo again and make it back to a Super Bowl. But don’t you think Maye looked pretty bad in the first half of the Denver game when the weather wasn’t much of a factor? Stidham didn’t look great either, honestly, he looked bad and I think with Bo Nix, Denver wins. Getting to a Super Bowl often takes some luck, whether it’s opponents’ injuries, a freak play, or bad refereeing during the season and playoffs.

What I’m saying is, when New England faced quality opponents, most of the time their offense let them down. Their defense is legit though, and that will keep you in almost every game.

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dobber's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:50 am

"Getting to a Super Bowl often takes some luck, whether it’s opponents’ injuries, a freak play, or bad refereeing during the season and playoffs."

Bingo.

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barutanseijin's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:59 pm

Their offense let the Pats down? Sounds familiar.

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LeotisHarris's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:54 am

dobber, can we at least say Maye is a bust, and that he can't win the big one? How about that Vrabel can't make in-game adjustments?

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Guam's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:28 pm

Cookie for Leotis!

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Since'61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:06 pm

I appreciate the feedback murf7777. Yes, NE played a weak schedule but they still made it through the playoffs and reached the SB. I think that Denver would have been m ore worthy opponent for Seattle but I don't think they could have defeated Seattle either.

The Seahawks are a well coached and well prepared team. They played 60 minutes of solid football and won the SB handily. The game was not as close as the final score and the score wasn't really close in the first place.

I can't imagine the Packers getting past the Seahawks with their 2025 roster even when healthy. The Packers OL would have been crushed and the secondary, especially the CBs, would have been picked apart.

Better drafts picks and better coaching by Seattle compared to whatever it is the Packers management think they're doing. The Packers should take a long hard look at what Seattle has done and try to copy as best they can. IMO there is a huge gap between where the Packers are and where Seattle is. If Gute thinks that he can close the gap with a few offseason tweaks he is sadly mistaken, again. Thanks, Since '61

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Packer_Fan's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:56 am

I want a DC like the two in the Super bowl. They both brought maximum pressure at the start of the game. Disrupted both QB'S. Both teams had at least one shut down CB.

Seattle made just enough plays and a good kicker to pull ahead by two scores and then the turnover flood gates opened up and put the game out of reach.

Yup a winning formula

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 08:02 am

One thing to remember about Gannon is that he clearly maximized the Eagles' talent. In 2022, they were elite, but in 2023—with basically the same roster—they plummeted to 30th in points allowed. That kind of drop-off suggests his leadership was the difference-maker. I really like his focus on accountability; he doesn't let 'inaction' slide, which is exactly what that Philly defense seemed to miss once he headed to Arizona.

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Guam's picture

February 09, 2026 at 08:34 am

We won't really know about Gannon until next season, but his hiring feels a lot closer to Hafley than Barry (LaFleur's previous two efforts at DC). Gannon has previously been a successful DC in the league which Barry never was. Gannon has been a HC which Hafley was and Barry wasn't. Gannon will have some pretty good players to work with in Parsons, McKinney, Cooper, Wyatt, Williams, Bullard, etc. etc. I am hopeful for a decent defense in 2026. We will have a much clearer view in about 10 months.

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dobber's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:48 am

I think you're right in that Gannon probably provided the view that he would provide a more seamless transition. I don't think LaF was looking for radical change because he hired someone who isn't profiling that way. It doesn't help that Hafley has pulled a lot of assistants, which will create some bumps in personnel groups and coaches--it's my hope they located a couple guys who can raise the bar.

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Guam's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:25 pm

I think Hafley's best assistant (Campanile) left last year and those he is taking this year are replaceable. I like that Gannon is bringing in guys he has worked with before - it will ease the transition period for the coaches at least.

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Swisch's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:05 am

Hey, I made it through the Super Bowl without watching one second of it.
Didn't even smoke any cigarettes to get through the abstaining, which is especially good as I never have smoked ;-).
Who knows? if the NFL keeps putting out woke and weird propaganda as it apparently did during the halftime show, I may be able to wean myself off of the NFL.
It's almost unthinkable, because one thing I've learned as I've grown older is that my love of football is deeply ingrained, truly passionate.
What a great game! What a great league that is being ruined from within. What a great team to root for in the Packers with so much wonderful history -- and, to keep things in perspective, with so much success over the past three decades.
I so much hope and pray that the out-of-touch NFL powerbrokers don't continue to punch their fans in the gut with inane gestures of self-righteousness and condescension.
***
I would hate to give up the NFL, but there's only so much a person can take.
To me, the kind of Americans who are NFL fans are perhaps the most welcoming and generous in the history of the world.
What other country has brought in so many immigrants of so many colors from so many places? Yet, if we do want to put some sane limits on the number of newcomers, then we're labeled as bigots. Rain is good until it becomes a flood.
Also, America had made great gains in race relations since the 1960s, until recently it seems certain elitists have tried to make up false reasons to divide us. I think the elites divide us in order to conquer us. They try to distract from their greediness while people of all colors struggle mightily to raise a family.
Born in 1962, I grew up with "Brian's Song" as an influence so strong that I even read the book upon which it's based a few years later in 7th grade.
As a freshman in high school, I watched "Roots" with rapt attention and real compassion.
My varsity basketball coach was black in a high school that was almost all white. His son was a teammate and friend of mine. (By the way, I was way down on the bench, something like the 9th man, with only intermittent scraps of playing time.)
***
Finally, with age I've realized that Vince Lombardi is one of the great pioneers in the Civil Rights Movement. In the racially charged atmosphere of the 1960s, he lived integration in the way he built his roster and by treating each and every player as a man with inherent dignity. Actually, he genuinely loved his guys. The only colors on the Packers were green and gold.
Lombardi even supported Lionel Aldrich in marrying a white woman, which most likely would not have been allowed by the NFL without the esteem of Lombardi's stature. (See the two-part biography of Lombardi from 2013 -- the hundredth anniversary of his birth -- done by, I think, the NFL Channel, perhaps ESPN.)
Those legendary Packers were a rock-solid example in real life of racial solidarity in action as teamwork. It's another thing we can be proud of as Packers fans. It's a truly great part of our history.

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Cheezehead72's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:35 am

I am with you about how the NFL is using its platform to endorse political views. But I watched the Super Bowl. My view is that I am not going to let them win. First of all no matter if I watch it or not it is not going to change what they do. They will continue down this road. Second if I do not watch it I am saying that they won. I am not going to let them take something I like to do away from me.

You missed a good football game. Both teams more so the Seahawks had a defense I wish the Packers had. A very good defensive game.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:46 am

How about we keep the political views to ourselves Swisch. Jesus, I don't to have to deal with that crap on a Packers website. There is enough of a divide in America now without dividing us Packers fans as well.

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Cheezehead72's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:02 am

What political view did I mention other than I don't care for the woke views that were being presented during the Super Bowl.

Sticking with your logic we should not be commenting about the Super Bowl being that the Packers were not there.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:22 am

Woke views? What in the fuck are you talking about. Get out of your bubble.

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Since'61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:54 pm

Swisich complains about Bad Bunny as being woke or the league going woke but then he praises Coach Lombardi (and deservedly so) for being a leader in what is effectively now woke behavior. So if it's OK for Lombardi to be a civil rights leader why is it wrong for the league to continue to support civil rights or for being "woke", whatever woke allegedly means. I guess he doesn't realize how he is contradicting himself.

What we should know about Bad Bunny is that he has donated over $400 million to his native Puerto Rico for fighting government corruption, supporting women's rights and to maintaining the power grid in Puerto Rico among other humanitarian causes. So if woke means putting your money where your mouth is, or in his case, where his music is that works for me.

I guess that because I have always supported our military veterans and their families, the performing arts and animal welfare that I am also woke. If that's true than I am proud to be "woke" whatever it means. I have yet to find anyone who can actually define what "woke" means. In the end who cares because I will continue to support and advocate for the causes I believe in. Having said that let's keep politics and "woke" out of our Packers blog. Thanks, Since '61

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 09, 2026 at 03:45 pm

Thanks - continue that good work.

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13TimeChamps's picture

February 09, 2026 at 04:44 pm

How that got a thumbs down is mind boggling.

As a fellow combat veteran, I've always enjoyed your takes. Before he was announced as the halftime entertainment, I had never heard of Bad Bunny. But after all the brouhaha, I decided to dig deeper to understand all the negativity. What I found pretty much supports your post.

He's not American? Well, actually he is. Did these same folks complaining have an issue with the Rolling Stones not being American when they performed during SB XL?

When I watched the SB halftime show, everything about it was about love and inclusion. Then we have the TPUSA "patriotic" option headlined by Kid Rock. Here is an example of the lyrics to one of his "patriotic" songs:

“Young ladies, young ladies, I like ’em underage/ See, some say that’s statutory/ But I say it’s mandatory.”

I'll take Bad Bunny over that garbage all day long.

No more politics from me. I'm out. Peace.

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Swisch's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:08 pm

Woke is secularism, sexualism, and socialism, which is the very opposite of the traditional American values of faith, family, and freedom.
It's easy to see that woke hates ordinary Americans, and slanders them, and prosecutes them. Woke persecutes with fanatical zealotry.
At a certain point, if most people don't see this distinction, then I am discouraged for our country. We will go the way of all the other countries that have deteriorated into ruins.
Even if America somehow survives, it won't be America. It won't be worth fighting for; it won't even be worth living for. The ordinary person will have to go underground to avoid harassment by the so-called tolerant weirdos of wokeism.
To use the analogy of "It's a Wonderful Life," some people seem to be just fine with the greed and lust and garishness of Pottersville, with its eventual disillusionment and loneliness.
I hope most people still prefer Bedford Falls.
***
It's worth noting that the in the ancient world of paganism before Christ, there was no concept of human equality or human rights. To the pagans, only a few people of the elite really mattered; the ordinary masses counted as practically nothing. Life was cheap.
Therefore, without Christianity, there would be no America as founded upon the beliefs of the Declaration of Independence.
That's why the Catholic Church invented the first hospitals in all of history, in the 300s, with the likes of St. Basil in Caesarea and St. Fabiola in Rome. For the first time ever, a religion actually dedicated itself to caring for the diseased and deformed and destitute.
Contrary to established history, the Catholic Church has been the greatest force in history for the emancipation of slaves, the elevation of women to equality in worth with men, and the exaltation of children from diminishment, and even discard, to doting affection.
If interested, see the writings of Mike Aquilina, Rodney Stark, and Regine Pernoud.
Basically, wokeism is the return of paganism, and the persecution of Christianity. It would also be the end of America.
***
As a postscript, Vince Lombardi seems to have talked with his players more about life than about football.
It's not that he was preachy or political, but that he cared about common sense and common decency, as well as the virtues that elevate humans in all times and places.
To him, men were men, regardless of color. He talked to them like men; he loved them as men without exception. He wanted to bring out the best in his men as players and persons.
Lombardi knew that sports can't be separated from life, and that the timeless principles of a good life would translate to winning football.
To win at any endeavor requires the basic values required to love thy neighbor. True love requires self-control of our desires and self-sacrifice for the rest of the team.

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LeotisHarris's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:16 pm

Steve, in all sincerity, are you okay? Last time you went on a perseverative rant much like this one,(although it was more focused on the NFL stealing our dignity) you engaged in self-reflection and took some steps to take better care of yourself. If you are hitting on all cylinders, great. If not, please reach out for help.

That said, please do not bring this type of discussion into CHTV. There are plenty of platforms for you to engage others in hot-button topics where no one will ever agree.

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Swisch's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:44 pm

Even us crazies in a fevered pitch can have something worthwhile to say at times. I'll let others decide for themselves.
My sincere thanks to you, Leotis, for any concern of yours that is sincere. (I like to think that you are sincere.)
As noted elsewhere, it's the NFL that's shoving sleaze in our faces. It would be negligent not to protest as an NFL fan.
People can agree or disagree, but to ignore this seems irresponsible.
How can the NFL survive if it ditches its best fans by treating them like dirt.
P.S. As long as I'm rambling, I would recommend St. Katharine Drexel as the true face of the Catholic Church in the treatment of people of all color, including Native Americans.
Also, you may be interested to know that the storied Nicholas Black Elk (of Little Big Horn and Wounded Knee) is being considered for sainthood by the Catholic Church.
In the past, you've seemed to be upset with me because you perceive the Catholic Church as the enemy of Native Americans. Although there may well have been horrible abuses by some Catholics toward Native Americans, there's another side to the story.
It's a lot easier for all of us to curse the sinners than to emulate the saints. We need to support each other in seeing things rightly, and then trying to live up to our ideals as best we can.
To borrow somewhat from Lombardi, we chase perfection knowing we'll fall short of it, but hope to attain excellence -- or at least adequacy. We do the best we can.
The higher the ideals, the more we may fall short of them. That's not being a hypocrite, but simply being a human.
I am an eccentric, melancholic, flawed and faulty human; but it seems to me that all of us have a right to express our beliefs and opinions. Others have the right to skim or skip my comments.

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13TimeChamps's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:52 pm

Oh my god, STFU!!!

"but it seems to me that all of us have a right to express our beliefs and opinions". Yes I agree. But this is a football forum, not your personal political soapbox.

Vince Lombardi would be disgusted with you and your "views".

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Swisch's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:05 pm

This outrage was committed during the Super Bowl!
How does that not concern football?
13TC, you have the right to skim and skip my comments, not to censor them.
I thought I was the crazy eccentric here, yet I've never told anyone to "STFU!!!"

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jannes bjornson's picture

February 10, 2026 at 02:45 am

Read the book "Black Elk Speaks," by John G.Neihardt and expand your horizons. Another title to consider would be "The Sacred Pipe, Black Elk's account of the Seven Rites of the Oglala Sioux" Joseph Epps Brown.
His final years he settled with Catholicism as he saw the similarities of Ritual Sacrifice.
"Black Elk's Religion, The Sun Dance and Lakota Catholicism." The Lakota felt an affinity to Jesus as a man who also suffered the atrocities from the white man and the centers of power.

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Swisch's picture

February 10, 2026 at 08:53 pm

Read the works of Michael Steltenkamp for another viewpoint. Also, the website of the Diocese of Rapid City, South Dakota.
It seems the wokesters have tried to culturally appropriate Nicholas Black Elk as a pagan instead of honoring his commitment to Catholicism.
If we go back far enough, all of our ancestors were once in tribes.
As Chesterton shows in "The Everlasting Man," the deepest longings of paganism are fulfilled in Christianity.

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13TimeChamps's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:41 pm

I was really trying to stay out of this nonsense any further, but are you f'ing kidding me?

"Contrary to established history, the Catholic Church has been the greatest force in history for the emancipation of slaves, the elevation of women to equality in worth with men, and the exaltation of children from diminishment, and even discard, to doting affection."

You can actually reference "doting affection" to children with the Catholic Church? Have you lived under a rock the last 100 years? How many hundreds, if not tens of thousands of Catholic priests have been found guilty of molesting young children and the church covering it up? If that is your definition of "doting affection" then you're part of the problem.

I hate censorship, but maybe it's time for the powers that be to block these non-football posts. Let's get back to talking about football, not some poster's view on how we should live our lives.

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Swisch's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:57 pm

In the world of pagan Greeks and Romans, molesting children was considered acceptable (as was slavery). Socrates had a boy as a bedmate.
It was the Catholic Church that made the sexual exploitation of children an abomination.
Even it was as many as "tens of thousands of Catholic priests" who have been found guilty of "molesting young children," and many bishops covering it up, it would be in serious violation of Catholic teachings.
One may consider that such disgraceful and disgusting behavior by priests (however many) seems to be usually acts of homosexuality -- an aberrant practice promoted at least to a degree in the halftime show at the Super Bowl.
After all, the NFL is well aware that millions of children were watching the same-sex twerking on display to a worldwide audience. That seems to be propaganda and indoctrination against children.
Anyway, by the standards of some fans on this thread, who's to say what behavior is bad and what behavior is good. Anyone can do whatever they want, right? Who's to judge? Just shut up and talk about the draft in few months.

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jannes bjornson's picture

February 10, 2026 at 12:39 pm

The Doctrine of Discovery. Look it up!

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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

February 09, 2026 at 01:53 pm

There were two men portraying homosexual sex, to millions of minors. Goodell gave a HUGE fuck you to all of America. (That's north, south and central) Further, people from Puerto Rico can't understand what Xir Bunny says; that's intentional, to get you to look up the lyrics so his anti-American filth has greater influence.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 09, 2026 at 03:46 pm

dude. it was two people dancing, not portraying sex. god almighty, that might be a tell with you.

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LeotisHarris's picture

February 09, 2026 at 05:39 pm

Sic, whatever you do, man, don't listen to Louie Louie by the Kingsman.

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Swisch's picture

February 09, 2026 at 06:19 pm

Thanks, SicSemperTyrannis, for your words of common sense and common decency.
(I'm sad to say that my words of support may make you less popular rather than more appreciated.)
In any case, the NFL did indeed give "a HUGE fuck you to all of America," as well as to all of the Americas -- and I appreciate anyone who has the courage to call that out.
The sleaze of the NFL, and its contempt for the vast majority of its fans, is an issue for all of us. It rates urgent attention at any fan site.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:11 am

How exactly would you know if it was political, being as you didn't watch the game (or presumably halftime?) Small-brain thinkers are asserting political motives to a league that has clear international aspirations. Believe it or not there is a huge contingent of Spanish speakers in the lower America's with both the money to support attending games and the desire to wear team gear. Last year the Brazilians embraced the Packers, perhaps you missed out on that. There are 221 million people in Brazil, that's a lot of eyeballs. About 132 million people in Mexico, they LOVE the NFL. Admittedly the Brazilians speak Portuguese, but the embrace of latin culture, and a Puerto Rican superstar performer is neither controversial nor bad business. Weirdly enough, it was a remarkable halftime show, one of the best I can remember outside of Prince. You did yourself a disservice by closing off your mind. As an American, perhaps you'd note that Puerto Rico is America. My grandparents came to this country as Danish speakers. My grandfather and grandmother barely spoke english and yet were American as American can be. Do better.

The Seahawks and Green Bay alum John Schneider just won the Super Bowl with a quarterback that couldn't carry Jordan Love's cleats. That's worth celebrating.

Finally, I think the Superbowl sent a powerful message last night, that despite our many differences we can come together as a country to celebrate the fact that the Patriots lost

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 09, 2026 at 11:29 am

As an addendum, let's not pretend the NFL doesn't understand what they're doing. More than 133.5 million people watched the half-time performance - the most in history. Too bad you bubbled yourself up and missed out.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:16 pm

Thanks Bitternotsour, you summed up the NFL decisions for this games entertainment perfectly. Their halftime decisions show how devoted they are to growing the game. Any business that sits on their hands hoping their business stays the same or grows is doomed for failure.

Because the playing conditions are usually sub-standard, I don't care for the NFL games in other countries, because I don't want to see any Packers unnecessarily get hurt. But I totally understand why they are scheduling these games in other countries.

I am older so I honestly didn't even know who Bad Bunny is, but I educated myself and realized the dude is extremely popular around the world. And also to be honest, I haven't even watched a halftime show since Prince wowed everyone years ago.

Swisch said "Who knows? if the NFL keeps putting out woke and weird propaganda as it apparently did during the halftime show, I may be able to wean myself off of the NFL."

I am 71 years old and If I never hear the word "Woke" for the rest of my life I will die happy. GO PACK GO!!!

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Swisch's picture

February 09, 2026 at 05:37 pm

I would say in all sincerity that this isn't a matter of religion or politics; it's a matter of common sense and common decency.
The NFL is at war with its fans as ordinary Americans who believe in our traditional values of faith, family, and freedom.
All people of good will can unite against obvious filth -- especially at the Super Bowl, in what is in effect a national holiday viewed by families with millions of children.
To not comment on this absurdity and atrocity would be negligence as a citizen of the United States. It is supremely relevant to any sports site. It threatens the sustainability of the NFL.
I'm not the one making this a big deal; it's the NFL literally shoving it in our faces.
At the very least, anyone who approves of the likes of Bad Bunny could show a little sensitivity to those of us who are appalled. I thought you guys were the tolerant and tactful ones who don't want to hurt anyone's feelings -- not like us evil rubes and bigots.
***
A couple of distinctions:
(1) If Al Capone funded a soup kitchen during the Great Depression, it wouldn't lessen the enormity of his crimes.
(2) Race is not the same as behavior. We're born with race. Behavior is a decision. People of all colors can detest perversion and promiscuity. I like to think most of them still do.
Finally, how does a program that isn't even in English get on the biggest stage of America? We bring in immigrants to enhance America, not to erase it.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:59 pm

You didn't watch the game, you didn't watch halftime, yet you have opinions based on some bizarre echo chamber fantasy world you somehow exist in. It's a pluralistic world, it's a damn shame you're afraid of anything different than you are. You've missed so much of life.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 10, 2026 at 05:38 pm

Also, let's be fair, I'm sure based on your comments you told everyone you were done watching football like 9 years ago when Colin Kaepernick was taking a knee to protest injustice.

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NFLfan's picture

February 10, 2026 at 06:55 pm

What is wrong with you? You make the cruelest, most biting comments.

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NFLfan's picture

February 10, 2026 at 06:53 pm

@Swish-Several posters have responded with such cruelty to you (particularly the likely clinically depressed, unhappy Bitternotsour 'appropos name-lol), I wanted to say I agree with much of what you have said.
Because most of the Legacy Media is uber Liberal and they have sweeping access/control, they and their surrogates insert themselves @ the Oscars, Grammy's, Emmy's, Super-Bowl with their speeches, virtue-signaling, fake compassion and other hypocritical messaging. Most of them live in leafy high-end suburbs and rarely rub elbows with their victim's du jour.
Guess what, no one watches the Oscars, Emmy's Grammy's anymore as a result of this interference

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Swisch's picture

February 10, 2026 at 09:01 pm

Thanks much, NFLfan.
I'm wondering how many might stop watching the NFL if the woke madness continues in its strident opposition to ordinary Americans.
I'm wondering if I'll keep watching.
***
I'd also like to reaffirm that if the NFL is arrogant enough to push its ideological agenda during the halftime of the Super Bowl, of all places, then it is highly relevant to comment upon it at a football site.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 10, 2026 at 11:25 pm

I've come realize Bad Bunny's message of compassion and unity over division was totally like a foreign language to you.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 10, 2026 at 11:33 pm

NFLfan, when I direct my comments at you, it's primarily because I just think you're dimwitted, and I want to mock you.

As for Swish, he's opened the door to his lame, politically backward world-view, talking about a game he (apparently proudly) didn't watch, and a halftime show he neither watched nor attempted to understand. But someone, somewhere told him he should be outraged about it and in my world, he deserves to be called out for it.

But back to you...

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NFLfan's picture

February 11, 2026 at 12:07 am

You are an angry, likely depressed, bitter man and I will call you out publicly. every time you
splash your inner vitriol on undeserving others. I think your vaunted PNW has given you a permanent case of depression and hostility.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 11, 2026 at 11:59 am

I'm a Dane from Wisconsin pally, and I come by my depression and hostility honestly, it's my birthright.

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jannes bjornson's picture

February 10, 2026 at 02:12 am

WTF ? I do hope you realize that Vince Lombardi's brother was Gay, Furthermore, He didn't tolerate any discrimination based a guy's "manhood" from any of his coaches, or players. If they could not abide by his Woke behavior, he would remove them from his team.
Propaganda? The NFL is all about expanding markets and over 40 million Americans speak Spanish. They are looking at Games in Spain, Australia whatever in their Global perspective.
Maybe it isn't propaganda to disparage two young Americans who were gunned down in South Minneapolis for the crime of helping their neighbors and being labeled "domestic terrorists" contradicting visual evidence and Eyewitnesses, one of whom I met recently while visiting the Memorials for Renee Good and Alex Pretti a Packer Fan. Two Americans we can be proud to know. Last Friday, at noon there was a memorial, for Alex at the scene of his killing. The memorial was organized by Veterans for Peace, of which I am a member, The Disabled Veterans of America, Common Defense, VA Nurses and Doctors who worked with Alex and Inter-Faith Clergy. Alex was an ICU Nurse at the MPLS, VA. He worked in biomedical research before adding his nursing degree and following his Karma to a life of being a Healer. PACT ACT funding helped with this research, especially focusing on Agent Orange exposure and treatment. A Vietnam Veteran under VA care said Alex saved his life with his applied research. He and his wife, a retired nurse gave witness. A son told of Alex giving the final Honors to his father after passing in the ICU--heavy duty on a daily basis. Renee's 2nd husband spent tours in Iraq and suffered the darkness of PTSD. She cared for him until his untimely death at age 36. I have a question, do you consider these young Americans, Woke?

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NFLfan's picture

February 10, 2026 at 07:04 pm

@JBJ;Give it a rest---a healer? no nurse would refer to themselves as a healer-that is arrogant--I wonder how long he actually worked as a nurse-not very long is my guess.

I'm also an RN and worked in the ICU for many years but don't brandish a 9mm, kick out tail-gate lights and harrass. No where near peaceful protesting. Most nurses could surpass Alex's 'good deeds'---it comes with the territory and very few nurses flaunt all of what they do on a daily basis-- nurses, real ones, don't crow about their amazing good deeds.
He was not someone who represented nurses-he was an agitator who crossed the line with aggressive, provoking behavior-now he gets to be a martyr.

I know Minnesota well and Minneapolis does not represent 90% of Minnesota, just like Portland doesn't represent Oregon.

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Swisch's picture

February 10, 2026 at 09:14 pm

One can disagree with the behaviors of others, while still treating them with respect and kindness and caring.
This seems to have been the way with Lombardi. It was a very good thing.
***
From what I've seen, Renee Good and Alex Pretti weren't peaceful protesters but were actually disrespectful, if not obnoxious, to law enforcement. They were intrusive and put everyone in the area in needless danger.
It does seem as though they were wokesters, if not professional protesters for radicalism. It's sad how nasty some people are to those who put themselves in harm's way to protect us by enforcing legitimate laws.
I'm truly sad for both of them to have died.

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Oppy's picture

February 10, 2026 at 06:39 am

Swisch, you've gone full retard.
Everyone knows you don't go full retard.

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Ferrari-Driver's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:34 am

Most of us watched the Super Bowl and what we saw was solid special teams play by both. Good discipline, few if any penalties, nice hustle, no missed kicks. I wish I could say this about our team.

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GregC's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:36 am

Like the author, I was not enthused about Gannon's hiring at first, but it made more sense when I read more about him. I don't care that Eagles fans are critical of him. That's the way Eagles fans are. I would have to rewatch that Super Bowl to decide how much blame falls on Gannon for the second half collapse. I know that when the Chiefs offense was at its peak, Patrick Mahomes was virtually impossible to defend at times because he did so much unscripted stuff.

I don't love it that Gannon interviewed with the Cardinals before the Super Bowl, when he was not supposed to. I didn't like that rule, but rules are rules. The bigger concern is that he was DC with the Eagles for only two years, so there is not much of a sample size. That goes with the territory, though. If he had a long track record of success as a DC he probably would not have been available for hire.

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:45 am

Greg, can you really say it was on the coach in the second half? Or was it the players’ execution, or just how good Mahomes and the Chiefs were, as you mentioned? I don’t think you can make a solid judgment from that. Mahomes can make any defensive coordinator and players look silly at times. Maybe you can tell, but I’d just be guessing on who to blame. Normally, the blame isn't any one thing and a bit of everyone's blame.

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MitchAnthony's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:49 am

Swisch, you didn't miss all that much. It wasn't all that good of a game, unless you're a Seattle fan. I shot in a pool tournament at a bar so I hung around to watch the game and why not, because there was some good food there. Some intrepid patron was able to put on the TPUSA half-time show so I missed the NFL version so I have no real comment on that. I was pretty much disinterested in the game and found myself asking if these were really the two best NFL teams of the season but, they got there so that's what matters. A couple commercials were good, like every year, but my attention wasn't riveted to the game all that much.

Some will bag on you for bringing up uncomfortable opinions in a football forum but I won't. I can respect opinions. I have a bit of a background in auto racing and actually worked for an organization I'll just call "Big N". I did eight years as a tech inspector and race official for "Big N" from 98-06, probably at the height of their popularity. I observed how they changed and pretty much turned their backs on the fans who brought them to that high point and decided try a bunch of different things over the last couple decades which have made them see their overall popularity diminish.

I'm not trying say what is right or wrong. I'm just saying I've seen it elsewhere. The high paid people in high places of the organizations are the ones who make the focus group tested high decisions. Who are we to argue with that?

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GregC's picture

February 09, 2026 at 11:47 am

I thought this was a pretty obvious case of the two best teams being in the Super Bowl, as long as you take into account that Denver lost their QB at the end. I thought it was also pretty clear that the Seahawks were the best team, and they confirmed that by winning handily.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:26 pm

These 2 teams were very solid all year long and deserved to be there. New England really benefitted from a soft schedule, but you still have to win the games and they did. I can see why they wanted Vrable so badly.

It's a great point to note the Denver QB going down with injury, because they had a very complete team and would have given Seattle a run for their money. Obviously, us Packer fans saw this year how devastating injuries can be to a team. Hopefully we got our 1 bad injury season out of the way.

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Tlatum21's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:51 am

Is there anyone who can explain how Gutekunst became the Packers GM when John Schneider seems also to have been a candidate for the job?

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:18 am

John Schneider was not a candidate for the job. John Schneider, like many people who lived in Wisconsin moved to the Pacific Northwest and never looked back. Although people out here can't seem to drive in the snow, they really seldom have to. Today it's 50 degrees and blue skies, as it often is in winter.

John Schneider runs the show. He has probably the best job in the NFL. Ultra-rich, hands-off owner who supports him and lets him do his job. The bluest skies you've ever seen are in Seattle...

I should also mention that you're 45 minutes from the mountains, you're overlooking the Puget Sound, you can see whales out your windows, you can see snow without having to shovel it. It's remarkable.

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 11:46 am

Before this year, Seattle fans were calling for Schneider’s head. After all, the team had missed the playoffs in three of the last four seasons. If the front office had listened to the fan base, this outcome might never have happened.

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Ferrari-Driver's picture

February 10, 2026 at 10:16 am

I'm not exactly sure, but I would say both guys are a cut above what the Vikings had as a GM until a couple of weeks ago, especially when it comes to picking quarterbacks.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:01 am

"I don't love it that Gannon interviewed with the Cardinals before the Super Bowl, when he was not supposed to. I didn't like that rule, but rules are rules."

Yeah I see that Greg, but we would be naive to think that doesn't happen more often in some fashion. Kind of "Wink Wink Nod Nod."

Gannon sounds like a very good DC, the head coaching experience is a bonus too. I hope LaFleur is smart enough to use Gannon to the fullest and draw from his experience as a HC. Even though his tenure in Arizona didn't end well, the Cardinals roster was hammered with injuries as badly as the Packers were, and they still almost beat us in 2025. I love the fact that he doesn't have only 1 way of coaching defense.

GB played Russian roulette by ignoring our 2 biggest needs last year and it cost us greatly. CB and run stuffing DT 100% need to be addressed now. And add in shoring up the OL is almost as important. A more consistent backup TE is a must because we lost that bet last year too when Kraft went down. ILB is a slightly less need especially if we lose Walker as has been mentioned and suggested. We BET on Musgrave last year and it failed, betting on Hopper is very risky too.

The challenge to any help from free agency is lack of money, so any additions will have to be cheap ones but it's possible. It is imperative to get the draft right this year because it is the only realistic chance to add some talent to fill holes and shore up weaker position groups. Fill holes with the first 3 picks. Trade back if we can and gain more picks. Don't waste picks by trading up or picking BPA of a player that won't play right away and maybe start to believe that if a player is rated 10 spots higher than another player at the same position of need, just make the obvious choice. Don't overthink it.

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T7Steve's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:36 am

"And add in shoring up the OL is almost as important" MOST important. As proven last night and with the Packers' last three playoff exits, if we choose to overlook how poorly they performed during the regular season.

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dobber's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:37 am

The issue at TE after Kraft went down was exacerbated by the point that the Packers continued to play 2 TEs at about the same rate with lesser guys (which now included a non-pass-catcher in Kinnard) and kept more talented offensive players on the bench that they could've used in 11 personnel packages. I'm someone who really likes 2-TE sets, but when your best blocking and best play-making TE are the same guy, it makes it hard to rationalize leaning into them.

"maybe start to believe that if a player is rated 10 spots higher than another player at the same position of need, just make the obvious choice."

According to whom? Piss on these ranking and scouting services. They don't pay any attention to team depth charts or scheme. Yes, some players are scheme flexible and are going to excel regardless of scheme...I think maybe your point is that the Packers' scouting department doesn't always jive with media pundits: most teams don't. The obvious choice is not always so obvious.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:46 am

arguably bad allocation of resources, not adjusting to the realities of the situation.

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T7Steve's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:15 pm

I don't think MLF dared going with less than two TEs because the O-line needed so much help just facing a normal D-front let alone any run or pass blitzes.

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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

February 10, 2026 at 06:49 am

We didn't have a TE that could block after we lost #85. 6 O linemen worked.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:38 pm

"According to whom? Piss on these ranking and scouting services."

Well Dobber, we sure haven't been doing so great with our method either, have we? I won't bore you with my hindsight by listing at least a dozen examples of what I am talking about. Our drafting players plans need an overhaul, or we will continue being a barely over .500 team with lofty expectations every year.

It was really brought to light by seeing how good of a game changing CB that we missed out on in Gonzalez. No need to mention Jaxon Smith-Njibba either is there?

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 11:50 am

Golf, In an ideal world, you’d fill every gap, and I’m not giving Gutey a free pass, but sometimes you have no choice but to bet on certain players and hope for the best because of the salary cap.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:44 pm

Yeah Murf, I understand completely that nobody hits on every pick or even a high % of them. I am talking more about the totally obvious early pick failures in GB where you are picking from the Top 100 players.

I look at most of the player rankings on different services as to get a more realistic view of where players stand in comparison to other players at their positions. Gbs draft procedure needs an overhaul.

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murf7777's picture

February 09, 2026 at 03:18 pm

Golf, since Gutey got an extension, it's a little late on an overhaul. Can only hope he learns from past mistakes and drafts production over a RAS score.

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 07:20 pm

Hell Murf, I am not so sure we wouldn't do better by just using the Cheesehead Draft Guide. I was over on Packers Yardbarker and looked at 2 mock drafts that had, out of 10 picks,(one was a 2 round mock) 7 of the players picked I have chosen in my mocks multiple times.

Maybe GB just needs a new fresh mind in there, hire Daniel Jerimiah, he hits alot with his player rankings. The first 2 days picks are crucial to fill the biggest holes on the roster with the best players available. Ignoring the 2 biggest needs last year is going to bite us this year when we don't have cap space for FAs. The draft is it.

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LeotisHarris's picture

February 09, 2026 at 10:51 am

"Coaches rarely get a third chance in the NFL, and despite only being 44 years old..."

Just off the top of my head for HCs, Wade Phillips, Dan Reeves, John Fox, Tony Dungey, Marty Schottenheimer, and Dick Vermeil did. Someone already gave a nod to McCarthy. If we add in the never-ending recycle of coordinators in the NFL that number skyrockets. He is only 44 and will have plenty more opportunities to be successful or unsuccessful.

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Bitternotsour's picture

February 10, 2026 at 10:05 am

why leotis, everyone knows the NFL coaching ranks are populated by merit alone.

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pantz_bURp's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:04 pm

I aint here for no redemption tour...but I am all for execution tour next season.

I am a little concerned. Since the NFL is going global and taking into consideration my family tree and rootz origin...whom am I supposed to cheer for when da Pack take on the Polish team or da Finlanders?

I liked Bad Bunny! I grew up with rabbit earz on the 12" black n white TV. Dialing in one of three local channels was quite the feat. Tin foil on the antennas, contorting the antenna ears was a trick passed down to future generations.

*Hey NFL: you keep on Priming me with NFL games, well...I have the Hallmark DVDz to last me until the cows come home. You dig?

Lil Burp

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PackerBackerAZ's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:28 pm

What does an extremely crucial year of a championship window mean? With the Packers o-line, d-line, linebackers and cornerbacks, are they even in a championship window?

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Since'61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 01:05 pm

In the minds of Policy, Gute and MLF the Packers are in a championship window. However when I watch a team play the way the Seahawks played last evening I can see the huge gap that exists between the Seahawks and the Packers and I don't see the Packers closing that gap with a few tweaks this off season. Thanks, Since '61

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GreenandBold's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:46 pm

So after blowing multiple halftime leads this past season the Packers hire a DC that in a SB his team gives up a double digit halftime lead giving up 24 unanswered points to the Chiefs for only the 2nd time in NFL history . Seems like a perfect fit for a MLF led Packers team . Can’t wait to see how this turns out .

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SicSemperTyrannis's picture

February 10, 2026 at 06:55 am

"Continuity."

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golfpacker61's picture

February 09, 2026 at 12:49 pm

We have a lot of holes to fill to be complete teams like we saw last nite. It also showed how the games can be too big for inexperienced players like Drake Maye. But you know what, he got his team there at least. And a strong defense will keep you in every game.

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T7Steve's picture

February 09, 2026 at 01:25 pm

The Seahawks started getting to Maye, and what did his OC do to help him? Quit running or trying to look like they were going to run the ball. 13 run attempts the whole game. Those guys were drawing straws to choose who'd get to blitz Drake next because they didn't have to worry about anything else.

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Starrbrite's picture

February 09, 2026 at 09:06 pm

Taking a “risk” in bringing Gannon in. I think it could/would have been said about anyone they hired.
I like the Gannon hire.
Go Packers!!!

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NFLfan's picture

February 10, 2026 at 01:54 pm

I really hate to see all of this 'trying to figure out next moves' among Packer fans when the reality is quite grim w/few resources available.
I only swing by every week or so but my conclusion is that Murphy is still pulling strings (only retired in July) but had to show he was 'retiring' so the next best thing was to install a 'yes' person who would be guaranteed to never question the 2018 power grab 'restructure' which resulted in the installment of the other 2 'yes' people. (However, Murphy/Policy was never going to hand over full authority to Gute-he may have fired MLF and brought in someone who may have upset the apple cart). The Packer's team is more of of a lucrative side interest for Murphy 1.0 and Murphy 2.0. Neither cares greatly (or much) if the team has excellent players/coaches. The most important priority of these two is to keep strong, competent GM/HC out of their hair so that their interests are not questioned. All of them got what they wanted--Murphy, Policy, Ball, MLF and Gute (lots of $$$ and lengthy contracts). MLF is free to call his plays, mismanage the clock, fall apart after half-time, Gute gets to kick the tires on more projects and RAS/team Captains, etc. Policy will be hands off 'out of respect','
This is a racket and happened in broad daylight just like 2018.
Fans lose, however.

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NFLfan's picture

February 10, 2026 at 10:59 pm

The NFL hasn't had a decent half-time performance since Prince-a real musician and entertainer.

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