The Lass Word: A Classic Dilemma
What to do with Matt LaFleur.
By KenLass
I was reading an article this week written by long time Packers beat writer Tom Silverstein for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. It was a column analyzing CEO Ed Policy’s options concerning head coach Matt LaFleur in the coming offseason. Silverstein came up with a point that had not occurred to me, and that quite frankly, stunned me a bit.
He observed that, if the NFL had not expanded to seven playoff teams in each conference in 2020, the Packers would have missed the playoffs the past four years in a row! Green Bay has been the number seven seed for three straight years, including this year, and missed the playoffs altogether in 2022.
I don’t know if that registers as significant with you, but it was a sobering realization for me. It shook me into a re-evaluation of the LaFleur regime. I had this concept that the franchise remained among the NFC’s elite, and that it was ascending back toward the top with a new window opening, following the end of the Aaron Rodgers era. But are they really ascending?
In the first three LaFleur years, with Rodgers at quarterback, the Packers finished as the number one seed twice and the number two seed once. Since then, Green Bay has lost four of their last five playoff games, and never achieved a playoff seeding higher than seven. This season, the team will finish with a worse record than last season. Considering they will likely rest a number of starters against a red hot Vikings team in Minnesota, there is a good chance the Packers will stagger into the post season on a four game losing streak. A first round exit from the playoffs seems likely. All of this casts some serious doubt as to the direction Matt LaFleur has this team heading toward.
Injuries? Sure. But every team has them. Look at the 49ers. They’ve had everybody, including their quarterback, out this season. Yet this weekend they will play for the number one seed. Talent? Plenty of it. Most personnel people around the league would rank Green Bay’s roster among the very best. Consider that, despite injuries to Micah Parsons and Christian Watson, the oddsmakers thought so highly of Green Bay's remaining talent, they made the Packers a one and a half point favorite early in the week before the rematch on the road against the Bears. It’s difficult to make the case that LaFleur has gotten this team to play to its potential this season.
Yet, there is much to be said in LaFleur’s favor. In the big picture, his Packers have made the playoffs in six of his seven seasons (although largely due to the playoff expansion). Writer Silverstein points out that LaFleur’s .665 winning percentage is third best among active NFL head coaches. He already ranks fourth all time in number of victories, surpassed only by Curly Lambeau, Mike McCarthy and Vince Lombardi. His winning percentage also ranks fourth all time.
LaFleur will enter the final year of his contract in 2026. Silverstein opines that if the Packers were to let him go, he would have another head coaching job in the NFL within one week. That may well be true, but Policy faces a classic dilemma. One that many franchises in several different sports have often had to confront. Do you stick with a coach who consistently makes the playoffs, but also consistently fails to achieve any success beyond entry level? Or do you bail on the coach, in hopes of replacing him with someone who might take you to the next step, to a championship?
Both alternatives have been tried. The Buffalo Bills have stuck with Sean McDermott for nine seasons. He has steadily led the Bills to the post season, but can’t seem to reach the Super Bowl. The Bills remain in contention this season. However, the Dallas Cowboys fired Mike McCarthy despite three consecutive 12 win seasons in four years. The Cowboys, under new coach Brian Shottenheimer, must win this weekend to finish .500.
Of course, the question Policy must also consider is, who else is out there? There are certainly no guarantees with any new coach. Is LaFleur still the best option? It’s a tough call. Contrary to popular opinion, it’s not a slam dunk that LaFleur will return. What many fans don't understand, is that LaFleur will likely reject any offer of a short term contract, and will demand a multiple year commitment. That will require a serious amount of soul searching by Policy. Much may depend on how the Packers finish this season. If they get hammered by the Vikings, and then show no fight in the playoffs, Policy may well start making phone calls. But if Green Bay comes up with an inspired effort against the Vikings, and acquits themselves well in the post season, LaFleur likely will get a long term extension.
Perhaps the dilemma will solve itself over the next two weeks.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
__________________________
Ken Lass is a former Green Bay television sports anchor and 43 year media veteran, a lifelong Packers fan, and a shareholder.
__________________________
Comments (213)
GregC
January 02, 2026 at 06:05 am
Going into the past three seasons, everyone knew there would be seven playoff spots in each conference, so it's not fair to pretend there were only six and that the Packers would not have made it in. It is a valid point that they have not made progress, though. Even if they were the fifth or sixth seeds it would be fair to question whether that's good enough. However, this season is not over. There is a chance that the team redeems itself, to some extent, in the playoffs.
Injuries do matter. This year's 49ers are the exception, not the rule. In the recent past, we've seen a couple of 49ers seasons ruined by injuries, and it's happened to other teams as well. Early this season, the Eagles played the Giants, and before the first play Jalen Carter spit in the face of the Giants QB and got ejected. The Eagles defense did not look quite the same without him, and they lost to one of the worst teams in the league. It made me wonder if last season would've played out differently if it was Jalen Carter, rather than, say, Aiden Hutchinson, who suffered a season-ending injury.
Ed Policy will have to consider whether LaFleur is getting the most out of the talent he has to work with. This year, it's looked shaky at times, and the team's poor effort in the loss to Baltimore is a strike against him. We'll see what happens in the playoffs. You can't judge a season until it's over.
jlc1
January 02, 2026 at 08:15 am
The Lions last year also had a ton of injuries like SF this year. Both teams were much better than this GB team has been.
GregC
January 02, 2026 at 10:04 am
I see the Lions as another exception, and not a great example of one. They somehow went 15-2 and then got destroyed by a mediocre team in the first round of the playoffs.
dblbogey
January 02, 2026 at 02:17 pm
The lions missed the playoffs this year.
Cheesey51
January 02, 2026 at 08:17 am
The packers have lost more home games in the past 15 months(6) than Mike Holmgren did in 7 years
What to do
Ed Policy does have quite the dilemma
I’m sure he has a plan B and C etc. for life without and with LaFleur
“This Team is ready to win Now” mantra has us believers taking it to heart and yet even before injuries disrailed this season
Not being able to get over the hump a problem
It looks to me the message is stale and it’s time for LaFleur to hit the sidewalk
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 09:47 am
That argument can be made - even without any punctuation lol. I'm not sure Ed Policy has any plan in place at all, much less plans A B & C; I'm not suggesting he doesn't, only that nothing has been disclosed. I think it's natural for fans to be more than a little curious about this, on edge, etc.
I'm trying to practice the posture of being a "detached observer" about all the heartbreak this season continues to be. Yesterday's interviews were encouraging! MLF's in particular might have been primarily a snow job desperate attempt to keep his job, but I prefer seeing him as being sincere in that. Hafley was his usual excellent self and I continue to assert that the FO should do literally whatever it has to do to retain him.
canadapacker
January 02, 2026 at 09:11 am
How dare you use facts? I don't doubt that there are issues and things that don't go well. Only 2 or 3 teams are at the top of the 32 every year. Favre won only one Superbowl. AR only 1. 30 some years with franchise QBs. Dan Marino won how many. Should have fired Shula after each year? Do we need to tinker with the staff. Yes. Do we need to look at our scouts and decision making on the draft. Yes. But come
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 09:54 am
Many will say that at least some of our talent scouts are the best part of the organization, perhaps the best in the biz. Personally, I don't know that much about it and just see great finds in later rounds and not in the early ones, just like basically everybody else here.
Another oddity is that they recently replaced the entire strength and conditioning staff with people who had seen a lot of success. Mike Wahle in particular cited this as an example of why he wants no part of coaching in the NFL; they were some of the best in the league, doing everything right, and got fired. Again lots of people are blaming the strength and conditioning staff for this horrible string of key injuries.
LambeauPlain
January 02, 2026 at 02:47 pm
Yeah SST, I am not convinced S & C coaches have been to blame for injuries. Some injuries are just plain bad luck...and under LaFleur, they get more than their share.
However, in the parity driven NFL, do the Packers have a decided edge in being in football shape? Well skilled and drilled in blocking and tackling? Hafley did take one of the worst tackling teams in the NFL to one of the best in just one year. So coaching goal focus and drilling to achieve them can work.
LaFleur has been labeled by past players as having some of the easiest practices of any NFL or college team they played for. I also note they usually have the longest injury lists every week in the NFL with many starters who are designated as DNP or LIMITED, and don't really practice much until game time. This season, some starters got injured while listed as DNP!
Some state LaFleur loads up his injury list to create smokescreens for the next opponent. I don't know. I just know many starters every week only practice the weekly game plan in the meeting rooms.
Players have stated the Packers practices are different every day, and all kept to a tight clock schedule. The days of running the Packer Sweep over and over are...over.
I know most players are very good staying in shape in the offseason but once they arrive, even in padded practices during the season, they don't block or tackle much...mostly just "thud" blocks and hits.
And maybe this is how it is with all NFL teams...but when physical teams (Ravens) play the Packers and hit them in the mouth...they often keep smacking and scoring.
dblbogey
January 02, 2026 at 02:34 pm
32 teams. Theoretically a team should win a Super Bowl once every 32 years. All teams are hit by injuries every year. But if the Packers had Micah and Tucker Kraft, they would be legit contenders this year. There's a lot of luck/good fortune/ involved in winning a Super Bowl. Minnesota doesn't matter, but if the Packers come out in the play off game and just lay down like they did against the Ravens , I'd say it's time to move on. We have someone who would likely be an excellent head coach in Mr. Hafley.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 09:35 am
I think it's certain that MLF has not gotten the most out of GB's talent for at least two seasons. Questions can be asked about who else on the staff contributed to that problem and more importantly, who's available that would be a sure fire improvement. Change just for the sake of change is not only not a winning proposition, it's what bad teams have long done.
I think a culprit is the obvious disconnect between talent Gutey acquires as compared to how they are developed, evaluated, and utilized. Injuries factor in after all the above, IMHO.
Fortunately this season has only one horrible loss in which GB was dominated throughout the whole game, in embarrassing fashion. This team was at least "in it" for 50+ minutes in every other game, as well as the playoff loss to SF in '23. We'd certainly prefer a HC who can take such close games and turn them all into wins. I've often stated I think GB would be closer to that with MLF as OC and someone else sticking to just HC duties, but nobody including me thinks that will actually happen.
Coldworld
January 02, 2026 at 10:29 am
Whatever one lays at the doors of Gute and LaFleur, the one thing that is obvious is that the Murphy structure is part of the problem and also makes it impossible to clearly assign either credit or culpability. The one thing that absolutely needs to happen is the return to a GM who has full responsibility for the vision, direction and performance of the team and clearly so, spanning roster, coaching hires, cap and physio.
The strength and conditioning area is an area where two different people overlap. LaFleur hires the strength and conditioning staff but Ball (not Gute) runs everything else related to the program, not Gute! This is seldom talked about. Ball actually controls most of the behind the scenes football operations other than coaching and game/squad management (LaFleur) and player identification and selection/signing (excluding contracting) (Gute). For a long time the Packers website spelled this out clearly. That’s now been removed, but the structure remains.
A ludicrously convoluted and opaque system that inherently fosters confusion, disconnects and inefficiencies and masks responsibility. Before any new GM and/or coach can be given the best chance to succeed, the Murphy structure has to be scrapped, in practice as well as on paper. One has to wonder if true change in how these individual operate will, of itself, demand changing individuals before it can be realized.
LambeauPlain
January 02, 2026 at 02:55 pm
Policy has been very quiet, unlike Murphy, who clearly enjoyed the limelight as "the guy" of the Football team.
It could be Policy, short of a Lombardi or a strong showing in the playoffs, hires an outsider as a true GM and lets that person decide the fate of the HC. Maybe Gutey gets the nod and decides if the team is better off with LaFluer vs Hafley or vice versa.
If Ed doesn't change Murphy's "temporary" Football Committee" reporting structure started in 2018, I will be very disappointed.
Oppy
January 02, 2026 at 07:13 pm
Does Russ Ball's power structure still remain?
I don't have any real idea, but I got the impression that the year we shipped Rodgers out, Ball's role was diminished as Gutekunst's GM power was being restored..
It seemed to me that we no longer had a cap guy making personnel decisions via contract structure seemingly of his own accord despite the intention of the GM, but rather, a cap guy who was once again reporting directly to the GM.
LeotisHarris
January 02, 2026 at 07:49 pm
It's hard to say for sure what ol' Gap Year does in his day-to-day. Somehow, he's advanced to 66 years of age while managing the Cap, contracts, and supervising all other football admin departments. From equipment to turf to family engagement, if it's off-kilter, Ball is to blame.
So, Oppy, I don't know, but his is an interesting story from asst strength coach to the top of NFL finance via who--ya-know and a little boost from that sweet NFL Learn-em-up Program. I hear he can get free refills on any soda he likes at Lambeau (prefers diet A&W Root Beer)
Oppy
January 02, 2026 at 08:04 pm
I figured Ball to be one of those guys who hits a little of each different flavor soda into his cup, but I have to admit, diet A&W ain't a bad choice.
Coldworld
January 02, 2026 at 10:13 am
A reasonable summation of this year Greg, but this is year 7. The roster has changed dramatically in that time, of course, but what of the way they have played and the problems encountered? This decision is not just about this year but the whole tenure.
Lare
January 02, 2026 at 06:07 am
It all comes down to your final goals and objectives. Would you rather have the success of the Packers or would you rather have the success of another organization like the Lions or Bears? MLF has had enough time to show if he can get to a Super Bowl.
Cheesetony
January 02, 2026 at 07:16 am
I understand your point and agree that it would be nice if the Packers finished ahead of the Bears and Lions every year. I'd also point out that the Lions and Bears haven't won a Super Bowl since 2019 either.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 09:56 am
Yes, that's a very odd comparison Lare tried to make.
mnbadger
January 02, 2026 at 11:11 am
2019? I thought bears was 1985.
GPG!
advdj76
January 02, 2026 at 10:01 am
Lions and Bears are not more successful than Packers since MLF came here. Both of those teams went to playoff twice since 2019. Lions went to one NFCC game, bears don't have a win of any kind.
Packers went to two NFCC games, and once to divisional round.
Anyway, I also think that we need to wait end of the playoffs for this season evaluation. If they lose wild card game it is one thing, if they advance it is different.
In my opinion this team has enough good players left to play in NFCC game, if coaching is ok.
mnbadger
January 02, 2026 at 11:16 am
Coaching is not okay.
Offensive line.
ST's.
No real head coach, just an oc with general awareness of what's going on withe the rest of the roster.
No feel for game management including clock, challenges, etc.
Little leadership can be found, though I'd put a star on JJ. He's a baller
GPG!
dblbogey
January 02, 2026 at 02:40 pm
I think the OL sucks due to lack of talent. I agree ST's coach needs to go. We are regularly outperformed by every opponent regarding special teams, and have been for 2 decades, and that costs us wins.
Savage57
January 02, 2026 at 06:17 am
Policy is going to make his decision on LaFleur based upon a lot more consideration than what the Packers playoff seeding's been the last three seasons.
To win the tournament, you have to be in the tournament. Matt checks that box.
Policy has been around football his entire life with two winning organizations. Chances are better than not he'll use that experience as he charts the Packers future regarding both their coach and GM.
Whatever decision he makes, I'll place more faith in it than the speculation of spectators.
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 09:21 am
Very level-headed post in a sea of narrative driven reactionary posts, Sav.
"Chances are better than not he'll use that experience as he charts the Packers future regarding both their coach and GM."
Someone used the phrase, "Policy has a plan," and I can't find it right now, but I believe this 100%.
He was not thrust into this position unexpectedly, and he was not green in the organization before named MM's successor. He's not just a lawyer who has functioned on the fringes of professional sports.
With that in mind, I fully believe that he's formed his own opinions and formulated his own--at least initial--Twistaplot book of paths coming into the President's spot. That's supported by his move to not extend LaF or Gute prior to the '25 season, and to wait until the off-season to move on either. He could've moved to extend each to avoid impending lame-duck status in '26 and generate some breathing room with the media, but Policy has been smart and now has tremendous flexibility on how to operate wrt team management and his own vision for the organization this off-season.
We'll know very quickly after the season ends what's going to happen with LaF. I don't believe Policy will allow him to coach as a lame-duck in '26, so he will either move for an extension or dismiss him, keeping in mind that they could easily force a resignation by reorganizing management and leaving LaF in a much less desirable spot or by offering extensions below what LaF believes he's owed.
Reorganization that puts the GM in control also possibly makes Russ Ball's position less desirable, but he's almost at retirement age, anyway. People piss on Ball, but he's been the consummate company man and I think he plays well with others in his current role (which most fans don't seem to understand).
"Whatever decision he makes, I'll place more faith in it than the speculation of spectators."
Bingo.
...or podcasters.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:02 am
"We'll know very quickly after the season ends what's going to happen with LaF."
At the risk of stating the obvious, I point out this is only one possibility among many. We really won't know what he'll do until he does it. Meanwhile, I like your idea stated here and hope you're right! I have no idea how soon Mr Ed will actually start making phone calls to discover what options might or might not exist. If he obtains 0 solid information from that pursuit, that would seem to be the main reason for him not to take quick action.
To me, it seems there must be a LOT of factors to juggle in this situation! Here's hoping he does it well, and I for one am glad NOT to be in his position 🥂
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 01:09 pm
""We'll know very quickly after the season ends what's going to happen with LaF."
At the risk of stating the obvious, I point out this is only one possibility among many."
My point being that if Policy/management chooses to move on from LaF, they'll want to be on the front end of the HC hiring cycle rather than picking over the leftovers.
Starrbrite
January 02, 2026 at 10:34 pm
I think Ball has been masterful with the cap.
jvole
January 02, 2026 at 06:39 am
Look at the games that were lost. Why were they lost? Poor special teams play? Poor OL play? An inability to adjust the offensive game plan? Have these been long-term issues that do not seem to be addressed by the head coach? Does he not articulate a plan for making things better? If yes, then start looking for his replacement because the coaches that consistently win in this league demand excellence in all facets, all the time.
My order of business would be:
Fire Butkus. The OL has gotten worse every year since his promotion. He played Newman over Tom during Tom's rookie year---Should have been fired on the spot.
I don't understand the special teams problems, but they are chronic under Lafleur. What does he plan to do?
The offensive getting mired down is 100% on LaFleur.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 07:43 am
Would you not ask who chose those players on the OL as well?
jvole
January 02, 2026 at 09:01 am
If Morgan does not work out at left tackle, then yes, firing Gute should be considered for OL play. Especially since Barton was next in line and we needed a center (and he is awesome). Heck Barton might be a better tackle than Morgan. One thing is clear--Morgan cannot play guard (and/or the right side of the line). And the idiotic moving people around is clearly not working. That's on Butkus. It feels like Barry all over again....
I still remember watching Tom and Newman in the same games and seriously wondering how they thought Newman should have been playing over Tom, at any point. Tom's talent was obvious the moment he stepped on the field.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:12 am
"Choosing who plays on the O line" is not as simple as who Gutey acquires! After that, other people entirely develop, evaluate, and utilize. I'm trying not to be cryptic while referring to an obvious disconnect between these two distinct phases of football operations, but am still struggling with stating it more concisely. Hopefully at least somebody here can get the gist of what I'm trying to say ...
LambeauPlain
January 02, 2026 at 03:07 pm
Stenovich has stated publicly he likes the musical chairs on the OL...so obviously both LaFleur and the "OC" agree with Butkus' coaching with him always searching for the best 5.
It's an odd way to develop and run the OL position that requires talent, cohesiveness, and knowing the assignments of the guy next to you as much as your own. What other NFL team does this?
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:07 am
I've long said that Butkus must only be here as an effort by Chicago to sabotage GB, so I wholeheartedly agree he needs to go! I'm not sure what other changes deserve to be on that same level of certainty, but we've only seen our ST decline under RB. There's a business approach that says make only the minimal amount of changes and wait to see the impact those produce, then re- evaluate from there. Might not be a bad approach now? As long as GM duties are also restored to something sensible.
Unfortunately we can't re-do the last two seasons with those three changes in place, but it's not difficult to envision they would have helped ...
GPG!
Starrbrite
January 02, 2026 at 10:37 pm
Absolutely right concerning the GM duties. The Murphy version was a mess.
stockholder
January 02, 2026 at 06:54 am
I'm against terminating MLF.
But go ahead.
That way Gute will be next.
Either Gute is interfering with MLF.
Or Mlf is interfering with Gute.
So- if a GM is to be judged on his drafting.
The answer for me is simple.
Gute prevented the packers from the SB.
He dumped Rodgers.
And MLF has had to do his best.
The conclusion among the noise is injuries.
MLF isn't in charge.
In business it's about making money.
You follow the numbers.
The L.V odds have always been against MLF.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:18 am
"I'm against terminating MLF.
But go ahead.
That way Gute will be next.
Either Gute is interfering with MLF.
Or Mlf is interfering with Gute."
It's not often that I agree with you, but I've been wrestling with trying to articulate the idea you seem to express in your second sentence here; "an obvious disconnect" between who Gutey acquires vs how they are developed evaluated and utilized has been the best verbiage I've come up with so far, but I think we're both getting at the same thing (?)
You're first sentence is a little stronger than I'm willing to conclude yet; I'd put it more like I'm reluctant to decide MLF has to go and that would surely improve the team. I'd rather see someone above both of them get them to co-ordinate their efforts better, and maybe the best fix to this dilemma is as simple as restoring our GM position to the usual NFL job description? I'd like to think MLF could operate within that situation without being such an egomaniac that he'd flail, fail, or pout and sabotage everything.
Dragon5
January 02, 2026 at 02:21 pm
Have stated for years...
Gute = OX
MLF = GOAT
Enemy signs
Very high odds, a professional relationship destined to fail / come up short
frankthefork
January 02, 2026 at 07:05 am
Ken, thanks for the updates. Yes the injuries, but 2010 was in the same boat.
My wish for 2026 is that the front office realize professional Football is a business first, and not a Frat party house with friends for life.
The HC and ST coaches needs to go. Pepe and Bisachi-sic both need the door. Trade Love, Jenkins, and Gary; get trades and free up Cap cash for the greatest of opportunities for Willis to get to the playoffs.
Willis is a starter. Lock him up.
Hafley for La Floor as head coach= Lame? I would do it. Add Ex Badger saftey for DHC. Where's...
Pepe la Puke sucks in big games. Ego is too gig-as in go for it on 4th and 4 on your own 35 in the 1st QTR-done with that.
And the red zone issues are play calling, not execution. Coaching again.
Can someone confirm Im not losing it , but isn't MLF packers 1-6 in playoffs. Ouch.
Great record 76-24 overall, but MLF packers never finish 60 minutes for some reason in the biggest games.
The 3 above mentioned star players take up to 30% of Cap combined. Sometimes the Truth hurts. Move on. Next man up. Go Pack Go.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 07:38 am
Trade Love? Willis has given 4-5 game sample size.
frankthefork
January 02, 2026 at 08:15 am
Willis has played...Much more than a rookie... MR insider.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:30 am
Examine his decision making when his first read isn't open. Please. Study film yourself, or watch others who do.
I'm not saying I somehow know what Willis' ceiling might become based on him having so little NFL playing experience. I'll concede that when JL10 had played that little he didn't do so well either. While not exactly being the General (Peyton Manning) or TB12 in terms of making adjustments on the line, look at his stats as compared to AR12's first three years starting and you'll see that JL10 very much deserves to be this team's starting QB.
Ideally Malik's entire career would be in GB, and MLF would creatively use #2 in key situations. While he could do that with #8 or even Savion Williams under center, Willis is obviously the superior choice; plus, his 40 time is 4.37, almost identical to #9. The only people on the whole roster who are faster are Matthew Golden and Bo Melton.
I'll grant you that Malik simply LOOKS great on the field including when he's running, but JL10 also runs well even though "silly body" has been counted to describe it and it's apt. MLF obviously enjoys calling plays with #2 on the field, he needs to call plays for JL10 a little more similarly.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:21 am
Also factor in the dead cap hit in moving on from JL10.
Packers0808
January 02, 2026 at 07:56 am
Been reading these posts on this site for years, don't think I have seen such a immature name calling sad post as this before! Risible.
frankthefork
January 02, 2026 at 08:16 am
Kids or business. Grow a pair grand ma.
Packers0808
January 02, 2026 at 10:13 am
You should be a stand up comedian, every time you stand up everyone laughs! Risible.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:34 am
Why am I reminded of a certain scene from Monty Python's Life of Brian? With a certain Emperor with a speech impediment ...
Tundraboy
January 02, 2026 at 02:33 pm
Woderick!!
frankthefork
January 03, 2026 at 07:30 am
I am the son of an NFL player.
I am entitled to my opinions.
I write books and am working on a movie deal...Talked with QT.
I am related to Francis Ford Coppola, Nic Cage and J schwartzman.
I have met the former Packers front office; Lombardi, wolf and Bratz.
I have an extensive football background.
I have an IQ over 140 and am sometimes Clairvoyant.
I have meet JAY LENO in 1985 and have been know to be a comedian.
My Uncle has worked in the WH and helped bring down the Berlin wall.
Sorry to offend those hurt by words...but im the one laughing all the way to the bank.
Packers0808
January 04, 2026 at 12:49 pm
And such Bullshit even makes you look as a corny as a cob to wipe your ass with.
Cheesey51
January 02, 2026 at 08:35 am
MLF & his assistant head coach/ST coach is not working
Since our OC left for HC job in Denver the offense has not ascended
Either return our current OC to his former OL position and can Butkus and have MLF call his own plays
But by all means look at ST
ST means ST
How many ST core players are there?
Draft players specifically for ST and develop it as a unit
The packer organization has to commit to ST as a unit of players
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:39 am
I'll sort through your thoughts and pull out the fact that Bill Belichek always said that ST are 1/3 of the game. GB could improve by at least coming closer to this philosophy. They seem to have abandoned it, especially returning.
Personally, I think letting go Mecole Hardman, TJ Slaton and Eric Wilson (LB) were mistakes. Maybe this season would have been just as good without Eric? I didn't much notice when Big Dog Mercedes Lewis was let go, but I've seen him do some effective blocking this season that GB would have benefitted from. That style of play has been used effectively by more teams this season ..
PeteK
January 02, 2026 at 11:36 am
Wow, did not realize what a great season Wilson is having. 106 tkls, 6.5 sks, 16 tfls
Coldworld
January 02, 2026 at 12:39 pm
Wilson was good last year. He was the third ILB up for a reason (second before they finally gave Cooper a run). However they instead contracted McDuffie and let him leave.
McDuffie is a nice back end situational piece, but he’s not a starter and he was and is not as good as Wilson. I’d argue he wasn’t near as good as Hopper in the preseason. He is, however, like Nixon, a clear Hafley favorite.
Those choices are one reason I don’t completely trust Hafley’s personnel instincts and also an illustration of how I think the current team suffers from the structure where it’s never clear whether the cart pulls the horse at times.
jannesbjornson
January 02, 2026 at 01:47 pm
This guy's been missing on talent from day one. Change the storyline.
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 09:25 am
"Can someone confirm Im not losing it , but isn't MLF packers 1-6 in playoffs."
3-5
I'm not qualified to judge whether or not you're losing it.... ;)
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:48 am
I found this number surprising! Upon closer recall I think you're right, spelled out as:
1 playoff win each season MLF brought GB to the NFCCG, each of those seasons having a first round bye and obviously 1 loss.
1 additional win against the Cowgirls in '23
2 seasons of one and done.
That's 3 - 5 while JL10 is 1-2. Right?
frankthefork
January 03, 2026 at 07:48 am
Pepe is MLF's childhood knickname, just as dobber is yours I guess.
3-5 is still a losing record. And 1-5 was a Guess with a question.
I have traveled the world, and find that American's are the only people hurt more by words than stones!
Wow, some fans just cant handle reality and respect the opinions of others.
I am a Packer Backer...so get of my back. I have lost $M but alway make more. Yeah, I guess I a sore loser, and a very happy winner.
Make the new year a better one...and I mean everyone.
13TimeChamps
January 02, 2026 at 10:52 am
Lafleur is 3-5 in the playoffs, not 1-6.
It was 4th and less than a yard, not 4th and 4.
Trading Love would not free up Cap space.
Willis may very well be a starter in the NFL, but it won't be in Green Bay.
If you're going to be wrong about pretty much everything, maybe at least refrain from the middle school name calling. Not a good look....well unless maybe you are in middle school.
Dragon5
January 02, 2026 at 02:23 pm
👏Frankthefork
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 07:12 am
I would ask fans to get a better sense of Ed Policy by listening to several of his interviews. Google: Youtube-Packers-Ed Policy.
I had projected his dad's personality, Carmen Policy, onto him. But, while listening to his interviews, I was troubled by Ed's loyalty (over) to Mark Murphy's vision for the team. I did not sense he was a man who had his own belief system as to how to improve the team's success.. He seems, to me, someone who is rather shy, almost submissive. IMO, he will choose to retain Gutekunst, which I think is a recipe for 4 more years of mediocrity and he will give him full GM power.
My sense is there is a rift between Gute and MLF. MLF's coaching style and the man himself is being set up to take the majority of the blame for the Packer's ills. The current theme being promoted is that Gutekunst bears little responsibility for player under-performance because the 'coaches are not bringing out the best in his choices.'
I would look carefully @ that theory as they did bring in a new coach for the DL, Covington, and there was no appreciable player improvement-
MLF has his issues, many are related to poor administrative skills, personnel management, game management, etc. Those are important weaknesses but the man, himself, is a good person. He needs a fresh start and my hope is he finds a better fit elsewhere.
When, not if, Hafley leaves, he will take his best position coaches, his brilliance, his remarkable culture-changing abilities and there will be a further decline.
The current men, Gute, Policy, Murphy are not the men to right the ship. They are looking out for their own comfort (Gute), projects, (Titletown-Policy, Murphy), and will promote the status quo. "Keep the seats filled and win just enough games" They call it stability, I call it stagnancy.
Hafley is not going to choose GB; his wife and daughters still live in Bergen Co. New Jersey. He will seek more autonomy a la Ben Johnson in player selection and overall culture building. The Giants seem to be interested in a HC with a Defensive background and previous HC experience. He was HC @ Boston College 2020-2024.
Razer
January 02, 2026 at 08:55 am
You packed a lot of truth into your post. I agree that coaching will come under a lot of scrutiny for poor performance before the front office feels the heat of assessment. I am not sure of your reasoning about Hafley choosing elsewhere for HC. I think he will look at his chances of success with this roster and make the call to another team. He has done a great job with this defense BUT like all his predecessors he can't overcome weak line and secondary play. He knows that this defense is a couple of years away from solid
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 09:34 am
"I am not sure of your reasoning about Hafley choosing elsewhere for HC."
I think people are overly sunny on Hafley as a HC, and I say that because his sample size as an NFL man is still somewhat small. If the Packers' D balls out these next few games, he'll solidify his status, but if they put more games on tape that look like Baltimore? I think this defense misses Anthony Campanile more than anyone is willing to admit.
Yes, he's going to get plenty of looks. Just about every HC--keeping in mind that most fail--was a whiz-bang coordinator somewhere else first, usually as part of a highly regarded organization or coaching structure. Piss on it as we may right now, people need to realize the demand for Hafley will be at least in part because other GMs and administrators view the Packers organization as having a positive impact on him.
He'll get his foot in the door in part because the pool of fresh faces for HC spots is pretty small, but I think he's going to have to sell hard on leadership and management.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 09:46 am
Hafley changed the Defensive culture in 2 years and made do with a lack of CB/DL talent. He also has Admin experience. He is definitely on the short list for the Giants, Titans and likely others.
Watch for the fall after he leaves and GB 'promotes from within'-guaranteed.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 09:42 am
GB has a flawed power structure. Hafley knows where the bodies are buried.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:52 am
I appreciate your writing out these findings. I'll counter that if Mr Ed were to change just GM to again having the standard NFL job description, that would be substantial rather than shy and submissive.
Starrbrite
January 02, 2026 at 11:26 pm
You make a valid point concerning Hafley’s family—a considerable motivation.
My personal opinion is he’s going nowhere.
Swisch
January 02, 2026 at 07:23 am
Way too early to think about next season.
Every fiber should be exerted for the remaining games of this season.
I'm rooting for our head coach, Matt LaFleur, to lead the Packers to a victory in the Super Bowl on February 8.
With lots of respect to the author of this article, that's all there is to say as of right now.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:02 am
100% true - for everyone who's part of the GB organization in any way. (Except for those planning ahead for changes such as Mr Ed) No one here is part of the organization and we can all think about whatever we want and it adds up to a sum total of 0 impact on the team.
That being said I hope they use tomorrow like a preseason game to develop and evaluate those who haven't played much or at all this season, and maybe even win at least one playoff game using whoever steps forward and shines tomorrow. I'd especially like to see Collin Oliver play, but there are others also on that list.
GPG!
Swisch
January 02, 2026 at 11:37 am
I sincerely appreciate the reply, SST, and a thumbs up.
It seems impossible to properly evaluate a book before the last chapter is written. Although it may be wise for Ed Policy to be taking notes along the way, even he would do well to wait until the season plays out.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:58 am
Head Coaching conversations are happening right now among teams who have not make the play-offs and will be announced in1-2 months
mjbrogno
January 02, 2026 at 07:28 am
This scenario is simple. Just like every organization that has a change at the top, usually the new guy brings in his own choice to coach. This is not an easy call for Policy. It also involves the GM as well. From a personal point, I don’t think MLF can get us there.
Razer
January 02, 2026 at 08:46 am
I agree but I will temper that by saying that I don't think any coach could get this team with its gaps to a Superbowl. Get a new GM, let them fix the lines and secondary and let them make the call on the next HC
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 09:40 am
I would argue that usually one of the signs of organizational discontent--or of a HC/GM being put "on notice"-- is that pressure leads to turnover in the assistant coaches or in some areas of the front office. There's been a little churn on the defensive side of the ball, but after the hiring of Hafley the most notable part of that recently had to do with Anthony Campanile moving on to Jax as a promotion. I don't think that was inconsequential.
Starrbrite
January 02, 2026 at 11:33 pm
Right —Campanile was a big loss imo.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 08:02 am
I don't think Ken, with all due respect, is looking deeply enough into the current Packer's system's malaise.
This problem started in 2018 when Mark Murphy made a power grab, dismantled the previous system, made himself President, stripped the GM of the proper authority, making himself both President and GM. He had to choose men ('GM'/HC) who would acquiesce to that fraudulent system.Those types are never the best and brightest. Everything flowed through Mark Murphy and there is no reason to believe he is not continuing to exert influence. He is only 'retired' from the Packer's Presidency-not his holdings and influence in Titletown.
No one in Green Bay media will touch this story-that behavior alone, tells me he is still too powerful to challenge.
Since'75
January 02, 2026 at 08:09 am
I was writing mine while you posted yours. 😁
Respect on recognizing and knowing about that situation in 2018.
*******
I would have not a clue, whether Murphy is still influencing, as i find that a bit of a reach without basis of fact.
Still...thumbs up
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 08:44 am
I don't have proof re: Murphy's continued influence but I do know that he is a remarkably youthful 70 y/o, who has poured most of his energy into the development of Titletown, and is a man who is driven by power. He was forced to retire from the Packers @ age 70 but that doesn't apply to his role as a Titletown commercial property developer-a role he clearly enjoys.
He wouldn't get enough ego-gratification at home playing with the grand-kids or traveling in an RV throughout the US-lol.
Since'75
January 02, 2026 at 09:12 am
Murphy was a good, behind the scenes guy.
I just doubt he has influence now.
But if he does, how sad would that be?
Seriously sad.
Murphy was always a bit strange to me for 3 reasons....
1) He was almost always socially awkward in front of media.
See Ted Thompson.
2) Why would Murphy put himself in full charge of football operations over Gute?
Gute had far more experience in football operations than Murphy.
Murphy.....did NOT have football operational experience!!!
3) Murphy's stated reason he put himself in charge, was because he found silo's in the building, of non communication between upper management.
That he discovered in his GM search.
Now ponder this if you will.....
Murphy was there for 11 years as President, working with these same people, in the same building, and he DIDN'T KNOW there were communication problems of the people directly below him?
REALLY?
Now...what does that say about Murphy?
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 09:44 am
"See Ted Thompson."
...and Ted Thompson set a pretty high bar for social awkwardness.
Coldworld
January 02, 2026 at 10:46 am
Murphy is the guy who tried to buy off Favre with a payment to essentially retire, that poured Kerosene on that whole situation. I’m not sure Murphy was as astute in judging people on the sharp end as he was clearly a good back room schmoozer.
He also claimed to not have been aware that TT had declined do far, while later having to admit that Russ Ball had been making most of the roster decisions for 3 years. McCarthy and Rodgers rebelled when Murphy suggested Ball as GM in the full TT sense and over the quality decline over those 3 seasons.
How do you not know if you are engaged, have your own hire and right hand man making the decisions behind the scenes and watch that roster decline? It begged credibility then and still does, but not among the Green Bay media really. The advantage of being a very big fish in a small market and controlling accreditation.
It could be argued that Murphy’s structure and hires were calculated to end any internal challenges, keep his right hand man Ball ( and reward him with virtually all back room control) and ensure a HC who relies on him and appears to be by less combative than MM and a GM with less power and thus platform to resist.
If we are into conspiracies today, that’s a whole lot more plausible than most thrown out there.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:08 am
You've thought this through more than I've had enough knowledge to be able to! Thank you for your contributions here, and right now is an especially appropriate time to discuss this exact (perplexing) situation.
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 01:09 pm
Yeah SST,
Coldworld and I are cut from the same cloth. :D
It's a Coldworld after all,
PB
Oppy
January 02, 2026 at 07:39 pm
"Murphy.....did NOT have football operational experience!!!"
Murphy had over 15 years of sports administration experience, which includes (but is not limited to) NCAA D1 football programs for 17 years.
He's never been a GM, but I would suggest strongly that he probably inserted himself as he did because it was a structure that was familiar to him as the Director of Athletics at Northwestern and Colgate universities, where he oversaw all the athletics programs.
I'm not a fan of what he did here in GB in terms of making himself the central decision maker and destroying the chain of command than runs through the GM, but you should probably know the man's resume' before making such assured statements about what experience he does or doesn't have.
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 12:06 am
I knew the mans resume years ago, he was an Athletic Director, twice if my memory serves.
Being an A.D. means you over see all athletic departments, funding, staffing, logistics, etc.
That is NOT football operational experience Opie.
And certainly not at the NFL level.
I'll say it again Opie, like i said years ago, Murphy had no NFL operational experience.
Please, stop wasting my time with your 6th grade non sensical proclamations.
Oppy
January 03, 2026 at 06:03 am
You have a history of accusing commenters here of being 5th and 6th graders, many of which hold MBAs / PhDs, and MSME/EEs with decades more life experience than yourself.
I'm not sure if who you're trying to fool, but you are only making yourself look foolish.
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 09:14 am
Good for you Opie, now go get me my whopper w/cheese.
LeotisHarris
January 02, 2026 at 08:55 am
What’s the ‘why’ in all this? That's the real question, isn't it? Why? The 'How' and the 'Who' are just scenery for the public. Murphy, Gute, Ball, the Policy family, keeps them guessing like some kind of parlor game. Prevents them from asking the most important question: Why? Why has MLF been targeted? Who will benefit? Who has the power to make it so and cover it up? Who?
The organizing principle of any NFL franchise is for profit. The authority of the team over its fans resides in its “spin” powers. And Gute wanted to end the Rodgers Era in grand fashion with a bounty of draft picks. He wanted to draft Creed Humphrey. He signed the Smith Brothers. He refused to move out of his silo. But all of that ended when Murphy usurped power. As early as 2011, they knew Murphy was not going to give up on the sledding hill. Like Caesar, MLF is surrounded by enemies and something's underway, but it has no face. Yet everybody in the loop knows.
Everything is cellularized. No one has said, 'MLF must be fired.' There's been no vote. Nothing's on paper. There's no one to blame. It's as old as the crucifixion. A military firing squad: five bullets, one blank. No one's guilty, because everyone in the power structure who knows anything has a plausible deniability. There are no compromising connections except at the most secret point. But, what's paramount is that it must succeed. No matter how many careers are ruined, no matter how much it costs, the perpetrators must be on the winning side and never subject to consequences for anything by anyone. That is a coup d'état.
They've been doing it all through history. Professional football is power, nothing more! Oh, don't take my word for it, don't believe me. Continue to do your own work, your own thinking. You don't have a choice anymore. You've become a significant threat to the Packers and the NFL power structure. They would have silenced you already, but you have a lot of light on you here at CHTV. Instead, they're trying to destroy your credibility. They already have in many circles in the Green Bay blogosphere.
Be honest. Your only chance is to come up with evidence. Something. Anything. Write more posts, longer posts. Comment on every post. Repeat your truths, again, and again, and again. Stir the sh*t storm. Hope to reach a point of critical mass that'll start a chain reaction of people coming forward. Then the Brass at 1265 will crack. Remember, fundamentally, people are suckers for the truth, and the truth is on your side, fangirl. I just hope you get a break.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 09:54 am
Thank you.
13TimeChamps
January 02, 2026 at 11:12 am
You don't understand sarcasm, do you? For someone who is so astute at reading between the lines, I'm surprised this went right over your head.
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 01:17 pm
Thank you, 13TC!
NFLfan
January 03, 2026 at 10:15 am
I completely understand sarcasm and I know Leotis is not a friend. I also know that many fans didn't get his sarcasm but he veered too close to the truth.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:12 am
Wow, Leotis! This Country would surely benefit from your thinking if it were at or near the top, somewhere ...
NFLfan
January 03, 2026 at 10:24 am
You are one of 7-8 weak-minded, failed men who are feeding off your 15 minutes of 'fame' as you were recruited for your very lack of moral compass & low real-life achievements.
There is a cadre of you who have been hired by a more powerful, equally unsavory entity to undermine stronger men of higher integrity & accomplishment.
I bet most of you live in one-bedroom apts and work in low value jobs in the real world.
Can anyone imagine men like Hafley or MLF engaging in gossipy, harmful, low quality behavior?
Since'75
January 02, 2026 at 08:06 am
"In business it's about making money." - SH
That is exactly the mantra of the 70's and 80's Packers
Those two decades had a business model of....
1) Making money
2) Hiring only coaches who had Packer back rounds.
3) Having people (B.O.D.'s) making football operational decisions, who had NO business, making football operational decisions.
Winning....was ranked somewhere down the line in the top ten, maybe.
********
My hope.....
Is that the General Manager position (whoever it is) has FULL football operational power to run the team.
Isn't that after all, the General Managers job?
We know what happened when Harlan changed the Packer bylaws, and put the GM in full control.
Two SB's were won with Wolf and Thompson.
In 2018....When Gute was hired, Murphy then changed the Packer bylaws, putting himself in charge full football operations.
DESPITE....having said two weeks earlier, that the GM he hires will have full football operational control.
Meaning......the GM didn't have final say in his decisions, he had to have Murphy approve it.
Hence why i have always said, Gute got hired as THE GM, with training wheels.
Proof?
Every Packer fan (should) know this from following the team.
If you don't follow the team, but still flash your Packer fan card, it's all over the internet.
Google is your friend.
*******
Now please.....
If you are going to thumbs down, without an opinion of why you disagree.
Consider first, discussing it with someone capable of thinking and forming an actual opinion before you thumbs down.
Show us, you're smarter than a 5th grader.
Cheesey51
January 02, 2026 at 08:50 am
Enjoying reading your comments
Something missing is right on
All true
(Elliot Wolfe seems to be doing well in NE
Ron Wolfe was a master)
Power at the top make money vs winning football
Agree MLF will take the fall
Give total trust of football operations back to the GM
Since'75
January 02, 2026 at 08:57 am
Thank you 51
Glad you enjoy, Happy New year.
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 09:03 am
You point to Eliot Wolf in NE. Read a piece about him the other day where his position in personnel in NE is a shared power with Vrabel and Ryan Cowden. There's reason to believe both Wolf and Cowden will return in '26, but both will be coveted as GMs this offseason. Under their current structure, a traditional GM position with full control over football operations would be a promotion and the Patriots couldn't block those moves. If the Packers were to move on from Gute and coveted those candidates, it would likely force the front office to reorganize in order to hire them.
LeotisHarris
January 02, 2026 at 10:42 am
From r/Patriots on Reddit from 12 short months ago; "Why in the world does Eliot Wolf still have a job with the Patriots." Scroll through the comments. Where have we seen similar opinions expressed recently?
https://www.reddit.com/r/Patriots/comments/1hv18tw/why_in_the_world_does...
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 01:03 pm
What a difference a year makes, eh?
Starrbrite
January 02, 2026 at 11:41 pm
Yep—GM deserves the operational control. If he stinks, then remove him.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:13 am
WAIT: Harlan changed the GM job description in GB, not Mike Murphy?!?
Oppy
January 02, 2026 at 07:52 pm
Prior to Bob Harlan, the Packers' Board of Directors (a bunch of local businessmen, in a gross over-simplification) would regularly assert themselves and tamper with football decisions.
When Bob Harlan took over, he put his foot down and said I'm hiring a GM, and from that point forward, that GM will be responsible for all football decisions. The only thing the President/CEO and the board will be involved in beyond the hiring and firing of a GM, will be ensuring the perpetual financial viability of the Packers and supporting administrative duties.
I'm paraphrasing. but yeah.
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 09:20 am
Prior to Harlan, the B.O.D.'s were a bunch of local businessmen, and businesswomen.
And.....they still are.
*******
Harlan put his foot down because Wolf demanded full control or he wasn't taking the job.
You're welcome.
jlc1
January 02, 2026 at 08:19 am
Short term what i will regard as progress is if, in the next 2 games, the D line blocks a pass. We should all set our expectations appropriately at this point.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 10:43 am
That would be progress! Sadly. But it would only count as solid effort from one player. Improvement from the whole team (as compared to the last 3 or 4 games of the regular season) would involve more.
Since'75
January 02, 2026 at 08:21 am
As far as what to do with MLF.....
I give no **** what Dallas, Buffalo, or what any other team did/does.
Nor should Ed Policy.
I would HOPE Policy is his own man, and makes his own decisions.
If he is/does, Policy may very well have already made his decision on Gute and MLF.
If i put myself in his position, i'd like to think i already had a plan in place and laid out.
The V.O.R.
Oppy
January 02, 2026 at 08:09 pm
You sign off on occasion with "The V.O.R."
There is another account here, "TheVOR", who has been posting over the years.
Do you have two accounts?
If not, what the hell is "The V.O.R."?
If so.. why?
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 12:35 am
Two accounts? Get a life Opie.
Paranoia isn't a virtue.
What does V.O.R stand for you ask?
Well Opie, tell ya what i'll do. Give it some thought, try and figure it out.
If that fails to work, maybe somebody here will voluntarily help you out.
If, after 2 weeks, you still haven't gotten it.
Ask me, and then....i will tell you, deal?
Or maybe i'll slowly give you some hints for my entertainment, citing the fact, you've been like a loud yapping, barking, lap dog biting at my ankles for awhile on here.
Those useless yapping dogs are annoying to the point you just want to kick it in the face.
Nothing personal of course.
Oppy
January 03, 2026 at 05:52 am
You're anything but the voice of reason, that's for sure.
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 09:12 am
Congrats!!! 😁
I'm very proud of you!! 👍🍦
Starrbrite
January 02, 2026 at 11:52 pm
Agree—the groundwork for what Policy intends for the Packers future should be (at least in part) ready for implementation.
Since'61
January 02, 2026 at 08:23 am
Ken, do you read the posts here at CHTV? Numerous posters here, prior to the Silverstein article, have indicated that if not for the expansion of the playoff format to include 7 teams the Packers would not have made the playoffs for the last 3 seasons. I'm stunned that you were stunned to just realize this.
As for MLF let's see what happens over the next 2 games. I would say that if the Packers finish the season going 0-5 then both Gute and MLF should be replaced or at the least neither should receive an extension. Thanks, Since '61
Razer
January 02, 2026 at 08:25 am
I am somewhat on the fence with Lafleur. He does some bonehead things as play caller/head coach and that worries me. Would have preferred a dedicated HC who was stronger on his coaching staff helping to remedy the chronic problems in parts of the team. Fundamentally, I think he is over his head as a HC as a result and isn't doing a good enough job on either front.
On the other hand, Gutekunst hasn't done him any favors with the persistent neglect in the trenches and in the secondary. Trying to build a championship caliber team without protection or run blocking is a little beyond coaching. Trying to get to the passer with Rashan Gary or stop the run with Colby Wooden is wishful at best. Hoping that Hobbs, Valentine and Nixon lockdown opposing talent is poor betting.
I would replace Gutekunst, give the next guy authority over the coach and let him make the call. I would not do it the other way around.
Since'75
January 02, 2026 at 08:38 am
"I would replace Gutekunst, give the next guy authority over the coach and let him make the call."
If Gute is let go, that is the way it should be in a perfect world.
Also, the coaching staff, should be picked by the Head coach.
Not the President or GM.
Give authority to those you hire.
There is a reason Wolf wouldn't take the GM job, unless he was given full power.
It was because.....he knew better.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:18 am
Gutey has NOT "neglected the trenches! You could claim that most of his acquisitions have failed, but it's not reasonable to state that's 100% on acquisition and 0% due to player development evaluation and utilization.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 12:16 pm
Yes, let's stand by the latest spin doctor narrative. 'It has always been the coaches fault. Gute has succeeded in drafting stellar players-he's amazing, just look at his first round picks'
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 12:20 am
Careful...lol
Talking about Gute's failed picks, and Kool aid, just don't mix round here!! 😲😏
*****
Anyone want to talk about picking lineman for the trenches? Lets talk Thompson and draft picks for the trenches.
He had 5 or 6 picks , in rounds 4 and 5, that rolled out to be Pro Bowlers, with an All Pro or two sprinkled in.
That....was getting it done.
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 01:31 pm
My criticism on the OL would be that Gute has, since 2018 in his first draft, chosen to attack the OL with volume on day 3 (11 picks over 8 drafts) over quality on days 1-2 (5 picks). IMO, were seeing that16 OL picks over 8 drafts (80 picks total) is likely too light, especially in light of the fact that only 2 OL were selected in the four preceding drafts.
LambeauPlain
January 02, 2026 at 06:21 pm
"....Gute has, since 2018 in his first draft, chosen to attack the OL with volume on day 3 (11 picks over 8 drafts) over quality on days 1-2 (5 picks)."
Day 3 has usually has at least 4 selections and often a few more due to compensatory picks and draft day trades to move down. Packers have often had 5-6 picks on day 3 or 40-48 selections over 8 drafts. You'd expect more OL prospects to be drafted on day 3 vs day 1&2 with just 24 (3 picks/year) selections over 8 drafts. Just math.
Another incentive for day 3 is you can find more OL prospect diamonds in the rough then. OL don't have the splash stats or national headlines like the skill players on O and sackers & interceptors on D.
Major Snafu
January 02, 2026 at 08:45 am
Matt LeFluer, who isnt my favorite, has to coach the guys Gutt gets. Thats his problem. The talent level on this team is pathetic.
I have this little voice telling me Love practices like shit and thus, the reason LeFluer wont call passing plays into the end zone inside the 20. Its run run and screen, run run and screen. LeFleur coaches like he knows things we dont. When you think like that things actually make sense.
I mean how can a guy who in Div 1a throw 18 interceptions his senior year, a league that didnt have great players, and now is manageable. LeFluer has plays that negates those mistakes like a heavy run game, short passes, etc. Its the only thing I can come up with to explain his play calling.
Oppy
January 02, 2026 at 08:15 pm
Jordan Love's interception percentage is 1.7% in 2025.
The league average for an NFL starting QB over the last 5 years is about 2.5%.
It's amazing how bad you are at this.
Since'75
January 02, 2026 at 08:50 am
As i've said many, many, times over the years.
Winning starts at the top.
The President, GM is where it all starts, then it trickles down from there, the top.
See Bob Harlan and Ron Wolf.
HarryHodag
January 02, 2026 at 08:56 am
In a few instances a coaching change results in instant success. When you dump the current coach there is no guarantee the next one will be better. Just to refresh younger fans memories, the Packers had some awful teams after Curly Lambeau left, some awful teams after Vince Lombardi left and some mediocre teams after Mike Holmgren left. So when you grab your backside and shout 'fire everybody' it's a 50-50 deal. The Packers have assembled some 'blue' level players, headlining with this year's MVP Micah Parsons. Tucker Kraft has emerged as a 'blue' on the offensive side of the ball. Jordan Love is a next level quarterback in the 'red' category and Josh Jacobs is a 'red'., McKinney has fallen from a 'blue' to a 'red' but still is good. Nixon is a 'red'. You get my point.
The winning teams amass a number of blue level players on each side of the ball. The Packers have the ability to compete with the best but lack the big star power other teams have. They have a bunch of good players, just fewer great ones. The NFL is 80% talent, 15 percent coaching and 5 percent injuries and pure luck.
MLF has moved this talent pool into contention. They could easily have fallen into the level of the Cowboys, lots of talent including a blue-chip QB, but never put it together.
MLF should be offered a two year extension. If he wants more, then move on. Same thing with Gute. If they want to stay in Green Bay, two years Super Bowl or gone.
By the way, the Vikings will blow out the Packers this weekend as most of the front line players will be sitting. That game should have zero impact on MLF's future.
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 09:56 am
"By the way, the Vikings will blow out the Packers this weekend as most of the front line players will be sitting. "
I tend to agree. The roster's not deep enough for all the starters to sit--some will still need to be part of the rotation--but MN has no reason to hold its #1s back and would love to bury the Packers. They have some serious player evaluation to do at the top of their depth chart, as well. It looks like McCarthy will play over Brosmer this week.
I'm confused as to how Philly is approaching their game with Washington, though, unless they're convinced they can beat WAS with their second string. There's a pretty good chance that the Lions will sneak out of Chicago with a win this week, and Philly might be lamenting missing the 2 seed and a first-round match with the Packers (instead of SF or the Rams).
LeotisHarris
January 02, 2026 at 01:46 pm
J.J. McCarty is back for the Minnesota franchise as well, and is reportedly donning additional eye black to help exact revenge on the Packers for his humiliation earlier this season. Fans will turn out for this one, to both witness the anticipated slaughter and to say farewell to Harrison Smith.
Reminder that Emanuel Wilson rushed for over 100 yards, and scored 2 TDs in the earlier matchup. Anything can happen. No injuries, please.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 09:19 am
In a perfect world, I would hope Ed Policy has had enough of a sample size to evaluate both Gute/MLF.
Both are only adequate and should be let go. It was my hope that Ed P would have been scouring the country for a list of successful GMs who would in turn choose their HC, etc. However...it has already been leaked that Policy will reinstate Gute (???) and give him full GM power. Gute is not being held to account in the same manner that MLF is (though he should be), so I do not see a real interest in making this team a true SB contender. This is why I know there are others, behind the scenes, pulling strings.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:22 am
Where did you encounter this "leak" about Gutey?
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 11:34 am
Maybe the Depends that get blind-label, dropshipped to his residence???
Just spitballing here,
Burpapodimus
snowdog
January 02, 2026 at 02:00 pm
The next urinal over
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:40 am
Sorry, I don't give up my sources.
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 01:32 pm
...don't ask.
barutanseijin
January 02, 2026 at 09:05 pm
Everyone knows anyway.
Packman60
January 02, 2026 at 12:05 pm
Both men have been repeatedly rated among the top 10 in their position. Finding upgrades to them is not a simple task. Look at the percentages of hires that are still employed 4 years down the road.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 12:19 pm
Packers are now rated #12
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 10:06 am
At this point,"“Do or do not. There is no try."
All I want to see is maximum effort by whomever takes the field this weekend and next. What I cannot tolerate is not going all out.
The desire, the want is something that cannot be instilled. It is there or it isn't. The coaches are paid to give the players the best opportunity to succeed within their talent levels and skills. Be accountable. If something isn't working, fix it.
No more word salads please. Results are the croutons....more croutons please.
I love you Packers. We have been together for how many decades now? I am starting to feel this relationship is becoming stale and I am starting to believe you dont feel the same way as I do you. I have been faithful...have you?
XXXOOOs,
PB
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:23 am
Croutons?!?
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 11:32 am
Cowbell then?
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 12:48 am
Pantz....
True love will never leave you. nor will i
The Packers will never leave you, and just disappear.
Like the boxes of Hostess you make disappear everyday. 😁😲😉
Your friend,
'75
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 10:10 am
My advice to MLF-
Though there is room for improvement- you are a good man and have none of the shady, unethical traits of the men who are targeting you to take the entire responsibility for the Packer's continual failures.
Get out--spend the rest of your days looking for other opportunities-don't let them fire you and make you the fall guy.
Please
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 10:14 am
"you are a good man"
He could very well be NFLfan. Is he a good HC too?
That is what others are chiming in on with their opinions (and yours). I appreciate your opinions as well as the others.
Chime on,
PB
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 10:41 am
I would also ask is Gute a good GM?
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 10:57 am
Yes, he is. GM = Good Man.
>^..^<
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:01 am
Why not take a stand once in awhile?
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 11:07 am
Trying to keep the peace is hard work NFLfan.
My stand is: I do respect and think Coach LaF is a good guy, maybe a good OC. I do not have faith in him anymore in being successful calling plays, making in-game adjustments and hiring qualified people to be on his staff.
Injuries suck, but he has had enough time to show he is capable and willing to make adjustments/hiring to field a team that has an identity.
Maybe behind closed doors, he is leading. I just dont feel like he is consistently good enough to be good enough to lead this team through the playoffs. Yes, I love that we are in the playoffs...I truly do.
Just my gut and high IQ lead me to where I am now. Which remindz me, where are we?
lil P
*in some of his pressers, Coach LaF will start some responses by being condescending and aloof to the question being asked. That part, I don't respect nor does it align with his professional, respectful image he portrays.
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 12:54 am
Is it any wonder why we all love Pantz.
He's a beautiful human being.
Psstt PB?
An IQ of 83 isn't considered all that high.
But that is our secret, so i'm not even going to bring it up.
Promise 💯
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:24 am
You're a good man, Charlie Brown
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 01:34 pm
This time I'm going to kick that football to the moon!
AUUUUUUUUGH!
Coldworld
January 02, 2026 at 11:00 am
I would ask if Lambeau was a good man, was Lombardi and, within reason, what on earth that has to do with it. Your comment though, suggests a degree of personal attachment to LaFleur, which explains quite a few common themes in what you post.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:09 am
Well, Mr.Coldworld, you were one of the posters I respected last year but your 'take' on the problems at 1265 has taken a 180 degree turn. So, because I have noted a lapse in integrity on your part, I cannot take you or your opinions seriously, though I do know the wrong people have easily recruited you to undermine MLF at every turn while soft-balling Gute-. Ethics and integrity are in short supply with those new friends of yours. Hope it was worth it.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:25 am
Preposterous conclusions that aggrandize everything about what CHTV is.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:29 am
Said the 'detached observer'---lol
13TimeChamps
January 02, 2026 at 11:25 am
Is Coldworld on the PR spin control payroll too? Asking for a friend.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:32 am
If you'd like I can expose all of you in one fell swoop. Flying Monkeys is not a very nice term but that is what I would call you and your crew-You are blatantly obvious. I would have instructed the 7-8 of you to employ more nuance, subtly. Alas, you are already exposed.
If you'd like I can give you a definition of a Flying Monkey.
13TimeChamps
January 02, 2026 at 11:41 am
"If you'd like I can expose all of you in one fell swoop."
By all means please do. No backing out now. It'll just make you look even more silly, if that's possible.
dobber
January 02, 2026 at 01:35 pm
You're just granting the attention and platform she's begging for.
Walk away.
barutanseijin
January 02, 2026 at 09:09 pm
You’re on a roll today. Some classic stuff. Keep it up!
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 12:57 am
CW makes a valid point.
I mean, Randy Wright was/is a good man.
NFL QB....not so much.
Alberta_Packer
January 02, 2026 at 10:21 am
Much is being written and opined about the controversial C word - “Change.” Particularly with regards to the HC, the GM (or both). However I wonder if we are looking to treat the symptoms and not the root cause of a problem that has long existed within the Packers organization?
Most of us may have heard of coaching trees – which are assistant coaches who have descended from a HC who originated a set of ideas / system. Likewise there are management trees – which are less known but nonetheless do exist. Since 1991 to date - the Packers have had only 1 management tree. That being the Ron Wolf tree.
During the last 34 years the Packers were either directed by Ron Wolf or one of his proteges – Mike Sherman, Ted Thompson and Brian Gutekunst. Their combined record for SB wins was 2 – with 0 wins after 2011.
Further examination of the Wolf management tree reveals his other proteges who became GMs outside of the Packers organization. Namely Reggie McKenzie, John Dorsey and Elliot Wolf. Collectively their 14 years as GMs have resulted in 0 SB wins or appearances to date. Thus giving a final tally of 7 (Wolf tree) GMs - over 48 seasons – winning 2 SB Championships – with 0 in the last 14 years.
In horse racing – the quest for a Champion is often determined by pedigree and bloodlines. When analyzing the Wolf management tree (bloodline) – it is apparent that it does not generally produce Champions. Some good teams – yes. Championship teams – no.
If the GBP are truly intent on winning SBs – it is imperative that they look beyond the HC and GM - to the Packers philosophy and model of trying to create Championship teams. It then may be evident that wholesale and fundamental changes would be necessary – beginning with the discharge of the current management (model). Next - to the import of new ideas, thinking and personnel. Thus, in effect, initiating a new era.
In a few weeks Packer fans will learn whether Ed Policy will continue the customary organizational management that has generally upheld the status quo. Or, demonstrate bold leadership that will challenge it. Packers history has shown that it is more likely to be the former than the latter – which would not augur well for additional SB Championships
KenEllis
January 02, 2026 at 10:30 am
I agree that the Packers could use a new “Ron Wolf” type GM from outside the Organization who is not so beholden to the Packer way of doing things that we might get to more than 1 Super Bowl this century.
That said, you failed to mention John Schneider who won a SB and led Seattle to another and has the Seahawks in the running for the #1 seed in the NFC.
Alberta_Packer
January 02, 2026 at 10:37 am
Thanks KE - overlooked Schneider. Still he seemed to me as distinct and an outlier from the rest.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 10:47 am
I think Murphy has been a significant problematic outlier and does not reflect the Packer Way. I would put him in the **** asterisk**** category.
Packer fans need to educate themselves on his devastating influence -it continues as we speak. Eight years and counting and the majority of fans are sleeping right through it.
Alberta_Packer
January 02, 2026 at 10:51 am
Agree. Murphy became more of a problem than a solution.
Alberta_Packer
January 02, 2026 at 11:42 am
Speaking of a new "Ron Wolf type." Thinking Alec Halaby (age 39) - Assistant GM Eagles. Not quite the Ron Wolf profile but Harvard educated - confidant to Howie Roseman - who has interviewed as a GM candidate for several teams..
Packerpasty
January 02, 2026 at 10:35 am
I don't know how you could have been "stunned" that the Packers are Kings of the Seventh Seed....yup, without 7th seed they'd have been sitting on the beach..
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:28 am
As much as I've been a fan of our players including Rashan Gary, since #1 went down it seems he'd prefer sitting on a beach ...
Since'75
January 03, 2026 at 01:02 am
I'm going to discuss Gary...once more, before he's let go.
Sometime after the wildcard game.
splitpea1
January 02, 2026 at 10:40 am
For those advocating that Hafley be given a shot to be the next head coach if the opportunity arises, I would ask who would be in charge of the offense and who calls the plays? Hafley has mostly a defensive background, so he'll need to find a top-notch assistant to be in charge of an NFL offense. In New England you see Vrabel is getting credit for a great turnaround, but you notice who is still calling the plays: McDaniels. No I am NOT advocating for McDaniels to be a Packers coach (!!), but does Hafley have the knowledge and connections to hire the right offensive mind and bring him to Green Bay? That would be really, really important if we want to get better.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 10:52 am
If offered a HC job, the Giants would be his choice. HIs wife remains in the area and they have a need for more Defensive improvements. Hafley has the self-awareness to hire a talented OC and the rolodex to go with it. He is a respected insider with ties to many NFL teams. He also has 4 years of Admin experience and is a culture-changer.
jlc1
January 02, 2026 at 11:23 am
I'm curious to know how we know and what we know about Hafley's "self awareness".
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:33 am
NFL has 0 qualms about speaking on behalf of others; never a reasonable thing to do (and it's customary in NJ for that behavior to result in getting killed)
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:50 am
whatev
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:43 am
Well, I make it a point to watch his pressors, read about his history, listen to what others have to say, his reputation in the NFL community, being targeted as HC material after 2 years.
Just pay attention.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:32 am
I do in fact advocate for keeping Hafley no matter what it takes, which would include making him HC if the only other option were to lose him entirely. Offer OC to MLF. Assuming he'd decline even if it meant going back to College, Hafley should stay on D and hire the best OC he can. The most likely scenario seems to be promotion from within (?) Not sure if it that's a recipe for failure or mediocrity.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:46 am
Do you get tired of regurgitating the party line? Hafley can run circles around Gute and is already gone. And, yes, GB will promote from within---big decline on the way.
Coldworld
January 02, 2026 at 04:36 pm
“ Business is fine, but you’ve got to understand.
Competition is fierce, when you’re working as a company man.
Not only fun and games, there’s a visionary plan.
Your future’s wide open. Congratulations! You’re a company man!
You got it
Excellence, and dare to dream. Get on board a winning team.
More than a job it’s global philosophy, philosophy.
Visualize success, it comes so easily, so damn easily.
By all accounts it’s a booming industry.”
Company Man, Company Band (Neil Fallon, Jess Margera, Dave Bone, James Rota, Jason Diamond)
splitpea1
January 02, 2026 at 12:24 pm
I doubt either man would be happy with that flip-flopping arrangement...MLF or any of his underlings as OC would likely mean more of the same with the play-calling, musical chairs on the OL, etc. No, if Hafley were offered the head job he would need to bring a bunch of fresh new faces to make a clean break and move forward.
Lphill
January 02, 2026 at 10:41 am
I think the Packers need a new head coach MLF had his chances , time to move on he will be hired immediately by another team anyway.
CanPackFan
January 02, 2026 at 10:56 am
I will admit that I was a LaFleur "basher" earlier in the season primarily due to his play calling. But I've changed my mind after seeing what little Gutenhunst has done since the Parsons trade. He's ignored glaring weaknesses on this team- from CBs, to interior Dlinemen to the Oline. He has shown a monstrous lack of urgency that has caught up to this team through injury just when we needed a deeper roster most.
Now, in week 18, he desperately goes out to find any available body(s). Where was his desperation after Carolina and CLE in early to mid-season?
Now, the cupboard is bare, better players are with other teams, we have no 1st round picks and a salary cap crisis emerging.
This terrible management affects the HC and how he tries to win games - now and in the future.
Gutes HAS TO GO! Ed Policy needs to find a sane GM who acts with urgency to alleviate short term problems but with a mind on a sound, longer term path for success.
LaFleur could get employed in a heartbeat by a dozen teams. Could Gutenkunst even be attractive to one? That's the real measuring stick and who is the better performer and who should be let go!
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 11:22 am
You are right, Coach LaF could be hired immediately. For him and his family, I would like that (if he were to be let go).
I also would like for him to be hired as HC of either the Lions, Bears or Vikings.
Super turbo,
Burp
SicSemperTyrannis
January 02, 2026 at 11:35 am
15 roster moves this week does NOT equate to "what little Gutey has done"
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:52 am
I would like to introduce you to the DL, OL and CB room- (maybe Trevon Diggs will save the day in the 11th hour-lol)
Handsback
January 02, 2026 at 11:16 am
I have mentioned this before and it's also posted above...first step will probably be to organize the front office like it was before Murphy made it like a college organization. That means signing both Gutsey and MLF to a one year contract to see how that goes. Gutsey made it clear in preseason, it's time to compete for the SB. Barely making it to the playoffs and a quick exit may mean a new coach regardless.
JMHO
navydisposaleer
January 02, 2026 at 11:36 am
A very smart man, Einstein, said it well, Keep doing the same thing over and over, expecting to get different results is lunacy. Maybe that will fix the Packers problem?
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:47 am
I agree-let's keep doing that.
LeotisHarris
January 02, 2026 at 02:11 pm
That quote is often attributed to Einstein, but there is no evidence he said it.
Interesting true facts about Einstein; he married his first cousin. As a German Jew, he became a refugee and used his influence and wealth to aid other refugees. He was a pacifist and civil rights activist. His civil rights activism drew the attention of J Edgar Hoover and the FBI. At this time of his death in 1955, Einstein had a 1,400 page FBI file.
Carry on.
TarynsEyes
January 02, 2026 at 11:41 am
The question, what to do with MLF, lies in the obvious, he's a 'lame duck' period, regardless of his one-year left or extending him. He'll be what he's been, a just enough, but never enough. He is what Tomlin has been for near his whole tenure since his SB win with Big Ben, which was handed to him from Cower. The SB drought will grow in years, or at least with MLF, not to dismiss the FO.
Oppy
January 02, 2026 at 08:26 pm
"He'll be what he's been, a just enough, but never enough. "
As I always like to point out when people make proclamations about HC's, the same was said ad nauseam about Bill Belichick and Andy Reid.
Not even remotely saying that MLF is in that conversation, but coaching is a career that absolutely benefits from years of experience.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 11:53 am
gpg
Packman60
January 02, 2026 at 12:00 pm
I think this is a joke that this is up for discussion. He has made the playoffs every season, but one. He managed the very difficult Aaron Rodgers who only wanted things done his way. He lead the successful transition from Rodgers to Love and he has been a strong leader for the team. If he was let go another team would gladly hire him in a New York minute. The grass is not always greener on the other side. Firing him would be a huge mistake as I don't see any candidates out there who would be better options. I am old enough to remember the dark ages of the 70's & 80's and I have no desire to relive those times. Policy made a huge mistake when he opened up this can of worms in his 1st press conference. I hope that his doing so, doesn't back him into a corner of making a bad decision.
KenEllis
January 02, 2026 at 12:14 pm
I too remember the 70s & 80s, but also remember the 60s.
If the goal is just to not be awful year after year carry on.
If the goal is to get to more than 1 Super Bowl every 26 seasons (GB’s record this century) then you cannot just carry on with a coach/GM who will enter year 8/9 with 4 straight seasons of nothing higher than a 7th seed.
harleycops
January 02, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Policy already knows what kind of team he has. I believe he has 2 visions in mind: 1 if Pack fare well in playoffs, 2 if Pack fall over the cliff. He's been hired for this top position, now he has to perform well just like his team. Stay tuned.
LaFleuzy has had a tough year. His play calling has been questionable many times, e.g. running into the line 3x, then punt. Not using your 1st rounder WR to his best ability. Why doesn't he get more plays called his way? Is he a bust WR picks? Our special teams still commit penalties & can't field an onside kick, our OL still false starts, our DL still gets run over, our DBs still defend no one. While players play and coaches coach, I'm waiting for both sides to start performing at championship levels. Just wait for this off-season, there will be major surprises and head-scratching decisions. Ah, the beat goes on....just like always! Maybe Policy can break the mold!
NAMVET
January 02, 2026 at 12:05 pm
My take is if the Packers beat Chicago in the wildcard game then one more season for the coach and GM. If one and done, then clean house.
BabeParilli
January 02, 2026 at 12:34 pm
Lafleur is not the problem, Gutekunst is and has been the problem.
Lafleur's record in his first 3 years with Aaron Rodgers was 41 wins and 12 losses - wining percentage 77.36%
Lafleur's record in his first 3 years with Jordan Love as his starting quarterback is . 28 wins 22 losses and 1 tie - 55.9% winning percentage - AND JORDAN HAD A TOP 10 Packer Defense all 3 years. And with Jordan it can only get worse!
Gutekunst DESTROYED A SUPER BOWL BOUND TEAM - and Gutekunst started that destruction from the day he became Packers General Manager in January 2018, maybe earlier given Ted's illness and Gutekunst role in drafting players and veteran player decisions even before Gutekunst was given the GM position.
Jordan will prove who Gutekunst is again next weekend - be it in Philadelphia or in Chicago.
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 01:25 pm
"Gutekunst DESTROYED A SUPER BOWL BOUND TEAM"
Waitor, Check please...
Leatherhead
January 02, 2026 at 01:03 pm
Ken, I think you've done a pretty decent job of trying to present a fair picture.
The point about the Packers benefiting from "playoff expansion" is valid. I think it's a double-edge sword, too.
Take the Lombardi Packers. I'll use their 1967 team as an example. They played a 14 game season, finished 9-4-1 (yes, amazingly, Lombardi teams did lose games). The league was only 16 teams split into two conferences, and the winner and runner up made the playoffs. The Packers beat the Rams and they were in the Championship game, where they won a close game against Dallas. Now they're in the Super Bowl.
That's a lot fewer bodies to have to climb over. 16 teams, including some pretty raw expansion teams. Over 14 games. One less round to the Super Bowl. Now, we have twice as many teams, but we don't have twice as many teams make the playoffs. So, if you want to get mathematical about it, it's harder to make the playoffs now than it was in the olden days.
Making the playoffs is the purpose and point of playing the regular season. Six out of seven seasons is pretty good, and we narrowly missed being 7 out of 7. We've been in the conference final four (semis) four times with a chance to make it five times this year. That's pretty good, but not as good as the 49ers or Eagles , or maybe even the Rams. We have work to do to catch up.
As regards MLF, specifically, if Policy doesn't like 'lame ducks' (as he reportedly said), he'll either have to extend him or replace him and start over. Now, we're in Love's prime, and we have most of our better players under contract for next year, and I just don't believe that Policy is going to seriously entertain replacing him, but it might be a shorter extension.
Of course, if the Packers put it together and defy the odds, we'll want to keep him forever, and his price is definitely going up.
pantz_bURp
January 02, 2026 at 01:30 pm
"if the Packers put it together and defy the odds, we'll want to keep him forever, and his price is definitely going up"
That's a win win in my world.
Letz do it!,
Pantzy "Power Sweep" Burp
Bitternotsour
January 02, 2026 at 04:33 pm
I'm in the "make the playoffs, see what happens" crowd. I'm 100% certain that you can't win a super bowl without being in the playoffs. The table is set, now it's time to see if MLF has his team prepared to eat.
If there were only six slots for the playoffs, I'd expect to finish no lower than 6th. I think it's kind of sad for Green Bay that the team doesn't get a playoff game at home, so that's a fail, but still, the post-season is all that matters now.
Packerpasty
January 02, 2026 at 07:11 pm
well its not like they are invincible at Lambeau anymore...sad..
Packerlifer
January 02, 2026 at 05:18 pm
The NFL has altered and expanded its playoff format several times since 1933. Does nobody recall it was an increase in the number of Wild Cards that allowed the Packers to get as 6th "seed" in 2010?
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 01:34 pm
Policy, like all of us has had 8 years to obtain enough data. He should have used the last 5 months to gather a list of capable GM candidates. If he's waiting until the end of the season to make a decision , he will be late to the game as most non-play-off teams are already in discussion. At least he should have put out feelers. Announcements will be made in 1-2 months.
It would take courage to switch both Gute and MLF out and Policy would likely need to create geographical and
distance in order to remain as autonomous as a President needs to be He is currently very entrenched in Green Bay, Titletown, his church, kids schools, etc.
NFLfan
January 02, 2026 at 01:40 pm
Anthony Campanile is rumored to be in the Head Coach carousel
jvole
January 02, 2026 at 03:01 pm
When it comes to play calling, I'm often amazed at Lafleur (in a good way). But then he calls the shotgun handoff on 3rd an 2 yards and I vomit on my remote control. Has it succeeded once this year?
Packerpasty
January 02, 2026 at 07:10 pm
no...that or a WR screen
stormin
January 02, 2026 at 04:35 pm
Fire Lalaufer and hire Chris Shula, !
Packerlifer
January 02, 2026 at 05:19 pm
If the writers are going to ignite another "Fire" article before the season is finally and definitively concluded I think Aaron Nagler should start looking for new contributors.
LeotisHarris
January 02, 2026 at 07:37 pm
Is it too early for a "Tough Decisions Ahead on CHTV Contributors" article?
Tundraboy
January 02, 2026 at 07:36 pm
Honestly if MLF was going to get us there, he already would have. You just don't squander the opportunities to get to the big game multiple times when your that close. As for the coaching staff other than Hafley they all have been pretty much useless. And I'm judging that staff based on the fact that they have had an abundance of fresh high ceiling talent and they have barely developed and utilized so much of the roster. OL and CB has been a disaster and ST a clown show. At the same time who do we bring in , who's the GM ....
Just going to focus on this year and see if we can make something out of it.
ThunderFromDownunder
January 02, 2026 at 07:39 pm
I am not saying fire MLF but I got DAZN this year to watch all the Packer games . The thing that stood out to me is the thought that after the first 2 weeks the Packers played down to the opposition teams level . With some truly horrible losses and near losses .
MooPack
January 02, 2026 at 08:47 pm
Just one aspect of the downward spiral of discipline over the past three years. 7 of 9 years before LeFleur, Packers are top ten in penalties committed per game. That's a good thing. This is ranking team-by-team comparison, not actual penalty numbers (although they are listed) each year, depending on what idiotic rules the NFL changes/implements, the numbers fluctuate higher and lower. The last 3 years are the Packers worst rankings in the last 15 years.
Before LeFleur starting at last Super Bowl:
2010 - 5th
2011 - 1st
2012 - 10th
2013 - 7th
2014 - 8th
2015 - 11th
2016 - 6th
2017 - 9th
2018 - 14th
Packers rank in penalties since LeFleur:
2019 - 8th
2020 - 7th
2021 - 1st
2022 - 11th
2023 - 23rd
2024 - 23rd
2025 (with one game left) - 16th
Youngest team, youngest team, youngest team!!! Yah, not buying it.
https://www.teamrankings.com/nfl/stat/penalties-per-game
lou
January 03, 2026 at 09:19 am
Here is an example from MLB that may apply. The Dodgers were consistent big winners under Don Mattingly but surprising to many fired him, his replacement Dave Roberts has won 3 World Series including repeating which had not been done for many years.
NFLfan
January 04, 2026 at 11:07 am
This is how I see it.
Policy has telegraphed he is keeping both MLF and Gute.
He has also implied he will give total control to Gute
Policy has also said in past interviews he will stand back and not micro-manage.I
It seems he is very busy with the building of Titletown-they are adding housing, retail, and have plans to somehow merge with downtown Green Bay-lots of big projects as well as renewing the lease at Lambeau.
This points to status quo. Keep seats filled and win just enough games.
No first round picks, no Cap space, Defense? with possible departure of Hafley
Return of Parsons, Wyatt and Kraft are positives but DL is still weak and CB weak. T. Diggs?