The Packers' Problem Solver
The Packers appear poised for another decade of title contention thanks to their savvy GM.
By Mark Ballard
Throughout this usually-up-sometimes-down Packers football season, I’ve had one recurring thought which can be boiled down to some form of: “Thank heavens for Brian Gutekunst”.
Living in New York City, I get an up close and personal look at two NFL franchises in disarray. There’s the NY Jets, who in recent years, signed two Packers castaways – Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams (both gone). They drafted a quarterback, #2 overall, who busted and left town. Their GM, Joe Douglas, was let go, as was their head coach, Robert Salah. New coach Aaron Glenn already appears to be on the hot seat, and they just traded away their two best defensive players, signaling a clear intent to rebuild (again).
The NY Giants are in slightly better shape (maybe). Their coach just got fired mid season, and the GM seems to be fighting for his job. They, too, miscalculated, letting several star players get away. Saquon Barkley just won a Super Bowl in Philadelphia, Daniel Jones is thriving in Indianapolis, and Xavier McKinney has found stardom in Green Bay. Oops.
While these stumbling NY teams may be extreme examples of mismanagement, this is the struggle for most NFL teams. Success in the NFL is hard, and sustained success is even harder. Few teams achieve the latter, but the Packers, remarkably, for the last 30+ years, have managed to maintain both consistency and excellence.
Certainly, having a rare succession of Hall of Fame playmakers at the quarterback position has helped the Packers’ winning cause, but those quarterbacks didn’t just magically appear in Green Bay. Each move took guts. Ron Wolf traded a king’s ransom for a relatively unknown kid from Mississippi. Ted Thompson’s hand was forced when the young man from Cal dropped in the draft. For Brian Gutekunst, it was more calculated – trading up for a toolsy project from Utah State.
Anyone reading this blog knows the history, so I don’t need to rehash it here. But we’re all now in a place to agree that Gutekunst did the right thing drafting Jordan Love. The Packers are seemingly locked into another decade of title contention as Rodgers winds down his career elsewhere. In retrospect, it was an insanely bold, “go for it” gamble by Gutekunst – and God bless him, he nailed it.
Heck, Gutekunst even nailed it with Malik Willis. Snagged for just a 7th round pick from the Tennessee Titans, Willis has developed into a tremendous, impactful player in Green Bay, and will surely be rewarded for it this offseason when he becomes a free agent.
But yes, with Love at the helm The Packers haven’t missed a beat. Two years, two playoff appearances. In 2023, the Packers came close to shocking the world, losing by a hair in San Francisco, on the cusp of an NFC Championship. Last season, plagued by injuries, the team fell to the eventual Super Bowl Champion Eagles.
At the conclusion of last year, Gutekunst said that the Packers needed to "ramp up our sense of urgency" adding, "I think it's time we start competing for championships."
Gutekunst backed up those words, spending big in free agency yet again. He allocated $77 million to steal away one of San Francisco’s best lineman, guard Aaron Banks. Gutekunst also beefed up the Green Bay secondary, with the $48 million addition of Nate Hobbs.
However, it wasn’t until August 28, just one week before the start of the regular season, when Gutekunst dropped the big one: Micah f-ing Parsons. It was a trade so huge, we all remember exactly where we were/what we were doing when it happened.
With one move, Gutekunst more than made up for all the times the Packers were “in the conversation” on a free agent and/or trade target that inevitably, always, went elsewhere. Nabbing the generational Parsons, Gutekunst had shocked the world.
So far, Parsons has more than lived up to his cost and expectations. Currently third in the NFL with 12.5 sacks (with 5 games to go) Parsons has been dominant, elevating the Packers defense to be near or atop the league’s best.
But while Love and Parsons are certainly the Bo and Luke Duke of this Packers team, Gutekunst has succeeded, masterfully, surrounding them with a supporting cast of Uncle’s Jessie’s, Daisy’s, and Crazy Cooter’s.
Consider the offensive line. At the premium tackle positions, the Packers start a 4th round pick and a 7th round pick. Zach Tom, the 4th round pick, just got paid. The 7th round pick, Rasheed Walker, may likely walk after this season. No worries – the Packers have 1st round pick, Jordan Morgan, waiting in the wings. And when Tom got hurt in week 1 this year? Again, hakuna matata – Gutekunst traded a 6th round pick for Eagles tackle Darrian Kinnard, right before the season started.
“I just felt we needed a little bit more depth, a guy who has some experience playing, a guy who could fit multiple spots, and it just kind of made a little bit of sense for us,” Gutekunst said at the time. “So, he’s gotten tremendously better in his time in Philadelphia. They do a really good job there, and I really like the way he’s progressing.”
Versatility has long been a priority for Gutekust on the o-line, and that strategy has paid off in spades this year, not only with Kinnard’s spot duty, but with guard Sean Rhyan shifting to center, and rookie tackle Anthony Belton slotting in at right guard.
Gutekunst’s brilliance is also evident at the skill positions. Josh Jacobs has been a home run at running back, and we recently learned his backup, Emanuel Wilson, can also play – and who knows what the Packers might have in potential hidden gem, MarShawn Lloyd.
At wide receiver the Packers have an embarrassment of riches. Gutekunst’s decision to sign Watson to another year looks like a stroke of brilliance. The talented and dependable Romeo Doubs, a free agent after this season, suddenly feels replaceable thanks to standout play from Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks, and the promising early returns from rookies Matthew Golden and Savion Williams (all players drafted by Gutekunst).
And Gutekunst has seemingly drafted the league’s next big superstar tight end, Tucker Kraft, who was sadly lost to a torn ACL in week 9. No problem. The Packers have Luke Musgrave, a gritty, skilled 2nd round pick on deck, and while Musgrave may lack Kraft’s blocking abilities, Gutekunst also added Josh Whyle from Tennessee – another painting-around-the-edges addition who has played meaningful snaps this season.
On the defensive side of the ball, Gutekunst’s biggest non-Parsons move may have been his (and LaFleur's) decision to sign Jeff Hafley as defensive coordinator. The fiery Boston College coach has been all business since coming to Green Bay in 2024, and his unit, stacked at every level with emerging, young, Gutekunst-selected talent, does well to reflect their coach’s intense focus and dedication.
Yet, even Hafley's crew isn't free of adversity. The anchor of that defense, Devonte Wyatt, was recently lost to a broken ankle, ending his season. Having traded Kenny Clark in the Parsons trade, one might think the Packers would be thin at the position. But no, even without the departed Clark and the injured Wyatt, Gutekunst has the Packers well situated with options including Karl Brooks, Colby Wooden, Nazir Stackhouse, and rookie Warren Brinson.
Hafley's defense has also had to overcome the absence of Hobbs, who has spent most of the season battling injuries. It remains to be seen how much the newcomer will contribute, but even there, Gutekunst has found a way. Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine have played the best football of their careers and former practice squadder Kamal Hadden has performed admirably in recent weeks, rounding out the group.
Since Gutekunst became GM, the Packers have a 81-45-2 record – the fourth-highest winning percentage in the NFL. Everywhere you look, up and down this Packers roster, you see the GM’s savvy imprint.
Super Bowl or not, I’m certain new Packers president, Ed Policy, will deservedly reward Gutekunst with a generous new contract this offseason. Lucky Packers fans should rejoice, or in the words of the Duke boys, give a hearty “YEE-HAW!”
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Mark Ballard is an obsessive Green Bay Packers fan, born in Buffalo Bills country, but raised right by a Mom from Rice Lake, WI. You can find him on X at @ballark
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Comments (86)
Bitternotsour
December 05, 2025 at 10:20 am
Bo and Luke Duke - now there's an interesting take.
Anyway, heads to explode in 3, 2, 1...
Savage57
December 06, 2025 at 07:00 am
When I saw the lede, I knew this article would bring out the Haterade drinkers.
They're the Nirvana Fallacy made real; If it ain't perfect, its bad.
Turophile
December 05, 2025 at 10:29 am
The Packers acquisitions of veteran talent under Gute has been unarguably elite. Gute had a more proactive view of veteran additions than TT, including some bigger size contracts, which has turned out to be a good thing.
As for the draft, generally the Packers are better at some positions than others. They went from being superb in picking O linemen to poor (see choosing Myers over Creed Humphrey and Morgan over Graham Barton, both missteps).
However they have been fine overall which is why they have a talented and deep roster now despite picking late almost every year. It's the opposite (of recent O line drafting) when you look at the safeties and ILBs, those units are just great now - terrific job there.
Now if he can just get back to being good with picking O linemen, he is the complete GM. If you don't think Gute is doing a good job overall, all I can say is you don't know football.
Bearmeat
December 05, 2025 at 10:34 am
Agreed on all.
Gute has been amazing in free agency. One bust proven so far and two more YTBD. He has been less solid in the draft. A (good) draft has three players re-sign with their team for a second contract. His first four years, he missed that mark, two of those years rather badly. It‘s been better the last four years.
And also, there is salary cap trouble starting in 2028, and no 1st round picks, for the next two years.
Is Gute good? Yes. Is he elite? We‘ll see by 2029….
Turophile
December 05, 2025 at 10:39 am
I agree with most of what you said.
I don't knock him for losing two first round picks though - that deal was an absolute steal even with a record contract given out and loss of picks and KC.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 02:13 pm
I believe Gutey's drafts and FAs have been excellent from the start of the post Rodgers' reload through 2025. His first draft was a stinker...but every team has those drafts.
I always had a good feeling about Love...more than just talent...He's a solid, confident leader. Even keel. He enjoys challenges. Shares the credit. More Bart than Brett or Aaron in this regard.
Gutey gets all the credit for drafting Love a few years early to learn from Rodgers, who was a solid mentor...as Ted did with Rodgers, who received less mentoring, more tension from Favre. But Rodgers learned nonetheless.
GregC
December 05, 2025 at 10:47 am
I'm a Gute fan, but I found some of this article hard to swallow. This is the first time I've heard Luke Musgrave described as "gritty." He has some talent, but that's not the word that comes to mind to describe him.
Also, they didn't steal Aaron Banks. The 49ers didn't want him anymore. Although Banks is trending in the right direction, it's still too early to tell if this is going to be a good signing. The Hobbs signing is looking quite dubious right now. I don't know if trading for Darrian Kinnard was anything special either. He seems like a serviceable #6 OL at best.
Oh, and Gute did not hire Jeff Hafley. Matt LaFleur did.
Maybe it's best to wait until the off season to write articles like this. In the next month or two, we will learn a lot more about this team that Gute has built.
splitpea1
December 05, 2025 at 11:05 am
Good reply. Gute's overall body of work shows him to be an above average GM, but there have been quite a few hiccups in the early rounds of the draft over the years. And contention is nice, but a Super Bowl appearance and win is the ultimate goal. We're all in right now, so he has to deliver in the window that's been created.
We've been in contention but have fallen short for almost a decade and a half, so I would save the promotional-type articles until the objective has been achieved.
Mark Ballard
December 05, 2025 at 11:24 am
From Nov. 21, 2023 via Zach Kruse/USA Today:
Green Bay Packers tight end Luke Musgrave needed to be hospitalized after suffering a "significant" abdomen injury during Sunday's win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Coach Matt LaFleur said Musgrave played through the injury on Sunday but has since spent time in an area hospital.
"He's got a pretty significant injury. I think it speaks to his toughness," LaFleur said Tuesday. "He didn't say anything all game but then something came up and he called Flea (head athletic trainer Bryan Engel). He's been in the hospital. It's been pretty significant. This kid is as tough as they come."
++++++++++++++
If that ain't grit, idk what is.
GregC
December 05, 2025 at 11:59 am
That's true about Musgrave showing grit in returning from his injury. Maybe that's what the author of the article had in mind. I was just thinking of his play style: not a good blocker and can't break tackles. I hope they use him more as a downfield receiver and matchup problem for defenses.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 02:22 pm
I agree with you, Mark. That injury would scar me beyond the wound. Serious stuff.
It does seem evident Musgrave's production mostly disappeared after the November 2023 game, doesn't it...coinciding with Kraft's rise?
Kraft's rise was something I expected would happen. Kraft was my #1 TE (after I watched his college tape) and was delighted he was drafted. But the 12 formation with Musgrave and Kraft never materialized and probably never will.
Coldworld
December 06, 2025 at 07:54 am
After returning in the playoffs in 2023, Musgrave played a huge role in the win over Dallas. 3 catches for 53 yards and the decisive TD. That makes me doubt the theory that he was intimidated, which otherwise would seem plausible.
In my view two things are overlooked, the full recovery from his next injury being one potentially. The other thing is that his success before and after the laceration in 2023 was not playing in a Kraft-like role but as a big target on vertical and stop routes. Since 2023 we haven’t seen that type of usage at all until perhaps, in a very limited way, in the last game or two.
In 2023 LaFleur cited Musgrave’s elite attributes as the speed to get deep and his ability to make himself a big target. Not his blocking, not his agility or YAC. Initially that is how we used him. It led to the 3rd highest rookie production in franchise history. Playing him as Kraft had led to essentially nothing, perhaps even a negative by keeping another WR off the field.
Yes, we all miss Kraft, but that hasn’t and won’t make Musgrave his doppelgänger. Instead we’ve been voluntarily ignoring what Musgrave started out doing well. To compound that, we were lacking a big target WR and red zone targets. The opportunity to have Kraft and Musgrave out there to compliment each other in different roles was never taken.
Perhaps now, belatedly, we will remember that we can use Musgrave as a big downfield target, something that could take physical wear and tear off Watson and which generally works well in colder weather. If we want an in line blocker, then just go another direction (probably 6th OL).
Leatherhead
December 05, 2025 at 11:51 am
I'm in the same boat as you on some of this. It seems off target on several points, even basic facts like who hired who.
Banks is/was part of the decision to release Myers and move Jenkins to Center. We needed a starting LG. The scouting and personnel people looked around and said "This is the guy". He was hurt early and missed some practice time, but he's been available every week since 10/12. So, I would have to say, he's doing what he was brought here for. Hobbs looks dubious because he's been hurt, and because he's not the guy you want playing press coverage on the perimeter without help deep. He's better if he's closer to the LOS, and he does make a good amount of tackles. We don't know if Kinnard is anything or not.
This would be better in the offseason, when they'll make decisions about who they want to keep and who they want to release. The financials on releasing Hobbs are better if we keep him for one more year. Banks, on the other hand, is a $20M dead money hit if he's released after this season, and a $25M hit on the cap if we keep him. And he'll be 29.
My best guess at this time is that we'll release Jenkins, resign Rhyan, keep Banks, and let Walker leave in FA. That would make us, Morgan (on a rookie deal),Banks (big $$$), Rhyan (2nd contract) Belton (rookie deal) and Tom(big $$$. Until the first guy gets hurt.
GregC
December 05, 2025 at 12:22 pm
I agree with you on who they'll keep on the O-line next year, although even if Rhyan continues to play well, they may draft a center fairly high to compete with him.
I haven't given up on Hobbs as an outside CB. If he gets fully healthy, maybe they can pick some spots to get him some more work there. He missed a ton of practice time with his injuries.
Bitternotsour
December 05, 2025 at 12:07 pm
Next time you have your kidney lacerated and piss blood for two months and return to the meat grinder to play football give us a call. Gritty. Brave. Possibly stupid, but don't question the grit
GregC
December 05, 2025 at 01:32 pm
I have a ton of respect for Musgrave coming back from that injury, but I don't agree with the author's implication that Musgrave is a worthy replacement for Kraft. The production and the snap counts are pretty clear on that.
Mark Ballard
December 05, 2025 at 02:42 pm
I didn't mean to make an apples to apples comparison between Kraft and Musgrave. Rather, I aimed to point out how, in the case of Kraft, the Packers, thanks to Gute, have a serviceable patchwork solve (Musgrave, Whyle, FitzPatrick also). I made a similar point relative to Wyatt.
I do think fans sometimes confuse a lack of production with a lack of opportunity (not saying you're doing that here necessarily), but sometimes players just need the opportunity to produce. The emergence of Kraft relegated Musgrave to second fiddle, and I think with more snaps, and with the ability to get into the rhythm/flow of the offense, it's entirely foreseeable that we might see an improved Musgrave.
Thanks for reading, and for the feedback.
Starrbrite
December 05, 2025 at 01:44 pm
Musgrave may be “gritty,” but he’s not the player most of us expected. I think many of us believed we may have acquired a gronkowski/hernandez duo. Musgrave thus far has been disappointing imo.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 12:48 pm
Agree with you Greg.
It was a good synopsis of Gutey's decisions, but LaFleur gets credit for Hafley. Since Musgrave took over as a kinda TE 1...he's had ONE diving reception that was very good. I think the Cincinnati Kid is going to take over as TE 1...but then Gutey did snap him up a few hours after he was cut on cut down day. Musgrave is mostly a bust. I do believe the injuries have taken a toll. The kidney laceration would have scared the crap out of me!
Banks is looking to be an over the market price pick...but he at least is showing ROI now, being healthy. I kind of look at Kinnard as kind of a Runyan guy, also a 6th pick. Serviceable now and perhaps even good in a few years.
Don't now about Hobbs except keep him at back up slot to Bullard.
But I do believe Ed's new Policy may be promoting Gutey to GM of the Football Operation after a successful playoff run. And reward LaFleur with an extension.
Without a successful playoff run, Gutey may still get the promotion and decide on the HC and staffing.
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 01:29 pm
It is obvious to me that Gute will remain. It is more about not wanting a strong, independent GM who may upset the status quo. It will be difficult, though, to justify firing MLF @ this point.
Starrbrite
December 05, 2025 at 01:37 pm
True GregC—the Musgrave commendations were, aahh…silly.
bjkdad44
December 05, 2025 at 09:14 pm
Indeed!!
Leatherhead
December 05, 2025 at 10:59 am
Gutekunst is a product of the organization....he worked his way up from scouting to head of scouting to GM. He impressed people in the organization along the way. Either the organization is good enough to develop competent people, or it isn't. I'd say there is an abundance of evidence that the organization is sound in that regard.
He has been much more aggressive in FA than Ted Thompson, and he hasn't been burned very much and has had some clear winners. He transitioned from Rodgers better than Thompson did with the other franchise QB.
Stability wins. We have a stable organization that doesn't see a need to be jerking to different directions with a loss or two. We should be thankful; it wasn't always like this.
Ferrari-Driver
December 05, 2025 at 11:17 am
Did you forget to talk about high priced special teams coach and their performance?
Coldworld
December 05, 2025 at 11:26 am
Gute does not hire coaches
Ferrari-Driver
December 05, 2025 at 11:59 am
I believe you are correct.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 01:28 pm
He is.
Leatherhead
December 05, 2025 at 11:54 am
We should just save money and hire bargain basement special teams coaches?? And they're going to make the bottom of your roster better?
Starrbrite
December 05, 2025 at 01:48 pm
…uh, maybe not LH. Drayton was/is the worst st coach I’ve ever witnessed.
…maybe I missed sarcasm LH?
stockholder
December 05, 2025 at 11:20 am
Gute isn’t listed in the top tier per Gms.
So I can understand the question.
1. So what do people Value.
A. Financial Health
B. Drafting Prowess
C. Criticism with Roster construction
D. Team Success: Super Bowls vs. mediocrity.
E. Erratic decisions leading to mistakes
2. So far; my belief is the supporting cast around Gute is Good.
That Mlf is better than people give him credit for.
And I've always stated for the Glory of Gute.
3. Fear vs change- He has the fans settlement.
But Trust isn't what I see.
The driving force behind Gute is power.
Due diligence will always impact his decisions.
But the "Good rating" is a generous one.
Coldworld
December 05, 2025 at 11:32 am
https://www.nbcsports.com/fantasy/football/news/rotopats-2025-nfl-gm-ran...
5. Brian Gutekunst.
How do you bridge the quarterback gap? A lot of dart throws. For as much credit as Brian Gutekunst and the Packers deserve for apparently keeping the Jordan Love faith from 2020-22, one of the main reasons the transition from Aaron Rodgers has been so seamless is the Packers’ ludicrous depth. Gutekunst made a truly ridiculous 35 draft picks from 2022-24. 27 of those players remain in the Packers’ ecosystem. Every team claims they focus on draft-and-development. The Packers actually do it. Gutekunst also deserves credit for not becoming so blinkered in his approach he literally never signs a free agent, a la his predecessor Ted Thompson. Josh Jacobs and Xavier McKinney were both key 2024 contributors. Where Gutekunst does run into a bit of trouble is committing to as strong of a vision on the field as off of it. Are the Packers going to let Love sling it or not? What is this receiver corps supposed to be? What is the identity on defense? Who is the leader on defense? It’s not recent first-rounders Lukas Van Ness or Quay Walker. Maybe it will be 2024 second-rounder Edgerrin Cooper. Gutekunst’s team-building approach allows for an unusually large margin of error. That’s nice, but if there’s one thing lacking, it’s the kind of high-end talent that wins conferences, not just a playoff game or two. If more of Gutekunst’s depth can become stars, Love could join Rodgers and Brett Favre in the history books.
Bitternotsour
December 05, 2025 at 12:11 pm
busting narratives the old fashion way, with facts...
sit down Stockholder. be humble.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 02:30 pm
LOL!
stockholder
December 05, 2025 at 12:38 pm
Yep fantasy , pure fantasy.
You closed a lot of windows of other players,
to stay with Love. He was always sink or swim.
There is no doubt; Gute saved his job by signing Free Agents.
But the biggest mistake is your," trying to sling it".
The running game is too important.
Otherwise Jacobs would not be here.
But as you pointed out-
Your question marks show; why Gute
is still not a winning Super Bowl champion.
How long are you willing to give Gute?
If he fires MLF. As you want.
The margin of error increases the wait.
EricTorkelson
December 05, 2025 at 03:43 pm
Stock ... The goal of any GM of any professional sports franchise is to put the franchise
in a position to win a championship.. Has he done that
stockholder
December 05, 2025 at 10:52 pm
The real person responsible is the GM!
Gute's teams have been stuck in "Good Enough."
The lack of star power to achieve the break through,
has always been missing.
Organizational stagnation will lead to fan apathy.
The internal friction is already present.
As more pressure is put on MLF and the players.
Band Aids over bigger wounds never fix anything.
Thats all he's done.
jannesbjornson
December 06, 2025 at 10:42 am
What's the point? It resembles the pudding crowd reminiscing about the good old days of coal at the retirement center.
stockholder
December 06, 2025 at 10:57 am
No - It's not a figment of your imagination.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 02:40 pm
Thanks for sharing, CW!
A nice close to the tale...acquiring a high end talent that wins conferences...:-)
jannesbjornson
December 05, 2025 at 12:03 pm
Point D is still the salient notion. Get the Gold, or go home. No need to review our mock drafts; we know the whole story. No rhyme, or reason on some selections, especially given the ammo from the Adams and Rodgers trades. He hit on Love and Cooper fell to him, but the whiffs led to over-payments to acquire veteran Free Agents and the current whining about the CAP. See if they can go on a run and WIN it?
I would not want to see another Pittsburgh situation where status quo corrodes achievement. Get it done, or Kleen Haus. This next decade kick the can down the road analogy is ominous.
Starrbrite
December 05, 2025 at 01:49 pm
I’m not sold on LaFluer (yet). He’ll have to win a nfc championship for me to be satisfied.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 02:47 pm
I would prefer the HC report to an actual GM of Football Operations.
I believe it could help LaFleur develop into an even better HC. He's is good now on Offense, and he is quite young for an NFL HC. He does need help making needed, difficult personnel decisions.
That GM would also have to evaluate that losing Hafley would be more damaging than moving on from LaFleur.
Hafley will get HC interviews...maybe with the Packers.
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 11:31 am
As long as there are 'forces' who dis-allow objective conversations to take place, un-obstructed, about Gutekunst, or MLF or Murphy etc., this is little more than spin control or proselytizing.
Gutekunst has made some very good choices and he has made choices that have hampered the team's long-term sturdiness. We should be able to have mature, objective conversations w/o the Packer's PR Dep't. swooping in.
If one pays a bit of attention, we have a few of the 'usuals' working hard to steer the narrative as we speak.
(See above)
13TimeChamps
December 05, 2025 at 11:41 am
Who exactly is stopping you from having "mature, objective conversations w/o the Packer's PR Dep't. swooping in"?
You post on here pretty much ad nauseum about your frustrations with Gute, Murphy, et al. without anyone "swooping in" to silence you unless I've missed it. Could you give us some actual examples of these "forces" you speak of? I'll wait.
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 11:43 am
You are one of the PR Dep't employees--I'll let fans try to locate the other two.
I don't like those who actively practice deceitfulness.
13TimeChamps
December 05, 2025 at 11:52 am
I had no idea I was an employee pf GB's PR dept. If it's my job to silence you, apparently I'm doing a pretty bad job of it. Maybe that's why I've never received a paycheck. Maybe it got lost in the mail?
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 11:55 am
You're on the 'spin control' team and I don't respect it. Maybe you just volunteer. I would ask for a salary though to do that kind of work
Leatherhead
December 05, 2025 at 12:07 pm
See, I don't get this "spin control" stuff on this.
The fact is that since Gutekunst/LaFleur took over, this team has done real well. We're in the playoffs every year. We've replaced HOF QBs, HOF WRs, Pro Bowl RBs. Our roster is so deep that we can lose guys like Reed and Kraft and Jenkins and Wyatt and still be in position to win the division.
How is that spinning anything? These are facts. We should be celebrating that we're fortunate to have a great GM/HC combo. Lots of teams would envy us.
Mark Ballard
December 05, 2025 at 02:58 pm
Amen, Leatherhead.
I get a fair bit of grief for my optimism/positivity around the Packers, but why not be optimistic? Why not be positive? We have so much to be excited about. To me, that's just reality. If I was a Jets fan, with the same rosey outlook, then yes, flame away. Or maybe there will come a time when things fall apart in Green Bay. For now, I like what I see and have no problem saying so. Go Pack go.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 03:29 pm
On Offense and Defense, the Packers are rounding into one of the most balanced teams in the NFL. STs are not so good.
When the Offense and Defense play complementary football, they are a force. Love and Parsons gives me Favre and Reggie vibes.
dblbogey
December 05, 2025 at 12:18 pm
LOL. You're a troll without a life.
Bitternotsour
December 05, 2025 at 12:23 pm
I swoop in often to mock this little troll. I'm the bad person working PR from my loft in Portland, OR. I thought I was out - but they keep pulling me back in.
The stupid, it burns.
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 12:33 pm
Another PR employee/volunteer. You don't have to live in Green Bay to be on the PR team
We do live in a connected world.
You just have to be willing to live in an ethical gray zone and deliver below-the-belt verbal blows, as needed.
barutanseijin
December 05, 2025 at 10:13 pm
Have you seen a psychiatrist about your paranoid delusions? It’s about time.
Leatherhead
December 05, 2025 at 11:59 am
Proof is in pudding.
Only results count.
Narratives are wrong
Fans are short sighted
Sixty years I watch.
This GM is good.
Bitternotsour
December 05, 2025 at 12:16 pm
i give that one a b-minus, the form is decent, but the lack of non-sequiturs and avoiding classic Haiku is pulling your grade down. I'll allow you to amend if you'd like, remember, five-seven-five.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 03:25 pm
Haiku yes, just five.
Pack wins with no turnovers.
Easy win ahead.
Bitternotsour
December 05, 2025 at 12:20 pm
shall I call you a wambulance. show us on the doll where the PR dept reps have hurt you.
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 12:27 pm
PR employee #2-expert at delivering 'beyond-the-pale' retorts-mostly immature.
13TimeChamps
December 05, 2025 at 12:34 pm
I wonder who employee #3 is. The suspense is killing me!
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 12:36 pm
You know-it's the other posters I would like to illuminate.
dobber
December 06, 2025 at 10:36 am
Call in Benoit Blanc!
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 01:09 pm
gpg
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 01:12 pm
Consider changing your screen name-your game is a bit 'yesterday'
Cheezehead72
December 05, 2025 at 12:14 pm
Gute is an above average GM. Yes he has made some good decisions but he has also made bad ones. Yes the Packers are in a good place and have been over the years.
Just this last year he has made some head scratchers and has put us in a position where we will not be able to sign players next year that we need.
We did not need a guard. It would have been better to keep Jenkins at guard and sign a center. I wonder if he tried to sign Drew Dalman the Bears Center. He signed a 3 year $42 mil. contract. That is much cheaper than Banks contract.
He signed Hobbs to a contract for an above average perimeter CB and he has not shown he can cover on the outside. It appears he is a slot corner. We did not need a slot corner.
Letting Slaton go was a mistake. He should have signed him for the same amount as the Bengals. Now we had to go get a run stuffing DT. At least we picked a guy that looks the part off a PS.
Now we get to the big one. Yes he showed a lot of guts trading for Parsons. He gave up a lot and he spent a lot. We are back in salary cap h--l plus we do not have a first round pick in the next two drafts. This trade only pays off if we get to the SB this year and we stay contenders and make the playoffs for three more.
This last year he has shown that he is desperate to keep his job.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 01:01 pm
Would have loved Dalman but everyone on the team was enamored with Jenkins to C. Hindsight is perfect vision.
I don't think the #4 defense in the NFL would even be #3 with Slaton. He's not that big a loss.
The Parson's deal has been hailed by just about everyone in the NFL universe. I would not ascribe that move as "desperate". I'd call it visionary, bold and shrewd...and fleecing Jerry in the process.
This trade for the 26 year old generational talent is already paying off.
There is a reason Gutey is respected as one of the best personnel managers in the NFL by his peers.
Starrbrite
December 05, 2025 at 01:30 pm
Right on Lambeau—bam!!
NFLfan
December 05, 2025 at 01:14 pm
More PR reinforcements-strong work-lol
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 01:32 pm
More non stop narratives...weak work.
Duneslick
December 05, 2025 at 01:34 pm
Gotta get those interviews
Starrbrite
December 05, 2025 at 01:28 pm
It seems we have a Guty apologist among us. No worries—I am one also.
The only GM I believe is better, is Schneider in Seattle—a Wisconsin dude like the Lacrosse raised Guty.
Oh yes, I remember now. I was also on the Flagship recruiting Crosby; Hendrickson; and/or Parsons, while many of the doomsayers were running for their bomb-shelters.
We have a SB capable team—this would be a good time to win it all.
First—beat the Bears.
Then—beat the frikin donkeys—my personal SB.
Go Packers!!!
Couch Cleats
December 05, 2025 at 01:48 pm
OK, I like Gutey but ..... come on.
Banks has underperformed his contract so far but hopefully is going to keep improving. Hobbs and Musgrave would NEVER be on the roster if we had any idea how poorly they would perform and you can probably put the first rounder Morgan in that group as well.
This is the first I've heard that Hafley was Gutey's hire. Do we know that's true? If so, will it be Gutey's fault when we lose him to a HC job this offseason? The "embarrassment of riches" wide receiver group is still more potential than production (some of which is due to injuries) but that statement is clearly premature.
Like I said - I like Gutey and want him to stay, but wasn't it hard to write this article with your head under his desk?
Coldworld
December 06, 2025 at 08:13 am
Hafley was not Gutey’s hire for the record. Nor were Bissacia, Barry or any other coaches the hires of Gute. Technically offers were issued by Murphy at the request of LaFleur. That doesn’t mean Gute didn’t meet with them, perhaps even have input. Indeed it seems both he, Ball and Murphy met at least the coordinator level candidates. Gute and Russ Ball could have objected to Murphy and Murphy could have vetoed the Hafley hire.
Balls’ objection on cost grounds led to us not getting Darren Rizzi, the ST coach LaFleur truly wanted before we got Bissscia. LaFleur had essentially offered terms after interviews. Ball (who handled all football contracts not just players) objected to Murphy. Murphy delayed and seems to have debated internally. Rizzi took affront at the delay and uncertainty which he took as a lack of confidence in his value. When Murphy subsequently decided to approve the hire, Rizzi refused to accept the original (or any) terms when Murphy finally formally offered. Rizzi is the reason that came out, not LaFleur.
egbertsouse
December 05, 2025 at 02:04 pm
He’s a B- general manager. Made some good FA moves and some bad ones, probably a couple more good ones. He shows a propensity to whiff in rounds 1,2, and 3 but tend to hit on rounds 4,5, and 6. He’s no Howie Roseman but, fortunately, he’s also not Andrew Berry either.
Mark Ballard
December 05, 2025 at 02:13 pm
EDIT: I should have made clear that LaFleur led the hiring process for Hafley, but it is also true that Gutekunst was certainly a big part of that decision (feel free to google that fact). Apologies for any confusion - the post has been edited for clarity.
LambeauPlain
December 05, 2025 at 02:34 pm
Appreciate the update, Mark.
"...it is also true that Gutekunst was certainly a big part of that decision..."
Yes, and so was the Acting GM Murphy. But it was LaFleur who made the decision.
Just as Policy, the new Acting GM, gave Gutey the green light to go after Parsons. Gutey made that decision.
Leatherhead
December 05, 2025 at 02:36 pm
People should be able to understand that decisions at 1265 are not made unilaterally, but rather are the product of a cooperative process. It's not just Gutekunst, or the LaFleur. It's the personnel guys. It's the assistant coaches. It's everybody. Eventually, it's LaFleur's call, but he's not going to tell the rest of the organization "Screw you, I don't care what you think ". No. That's not how adults do things.
In other cities, maybe. Not in Green Bay. Not for a long time. Back in the Bart Starr days, maybe (reportedly, people begged Starr to take Montana). That's why we don't make as many enormous mistakes as we used to. We don't trade for Jay Cutler and we don't draft JJ McCarthy.
Coldworld
December 06, 2025 at 08:33 am
Gute and Russ Ball met with him, that we know, but that doesn’t mean they controlled candidates or choices. Interviewing a non direct hire is a second opinion. So Gute probably did not object to Haffley, but we don’t know that for sure. We only know Murphy didn’t.
So actually, Gute’s part in the hire of Hafley was not “a big part of it” and we can’t even be certain he or Ball were in favor of it necessarily. It was LaFleur’s choice of individual with Murphy’s approval and LaFleur gets the credit for it.
PackerBackerAZ
December 05, 2025 at 02:32 pm
having a rare succession of Hall of Fame playmakers at the quarterback position has helped
Favre doesn't deserve to be in the nfl hof due to his unbreakable interception record being responsible for most losses in big games because of it. Love hasn't earned it.
yes, with Love at the helm The Packers haven’t missed a beat. Two years, two playoff appearances.
And, of course, no Super Bowls. I'm of the belief that the Packers will be in the Super Bowl this year. Not because of Love, but by having Parsons on defense
Gutekunst allocated $77 million to steal away one of San Francisco’s best lineman, guard Aaron Banks. Gutekunst also beefed up the Green Bay secondary, with the $48 million addition of Nate Hobbs.
Just because of this stupid statement, I can give no credibility to this author. Banks was playing poorly, at best, after Trent Williams went down. Williams, the 49ers actual best lineman, is a future hof left tackle with multiple all pro and pro bowl appearances on his resume. Banks has none. Every Packer fan knows that Hobbs was a bad signing. He can only play the slot and the Packers didn't need an overpaid slot corner.
Gutekunst nabbed the generational Parsons. Parsons has been dominant, elevating the Packers defense to be near or atop the league’s best.
This is the only sensible thing the author has in the whole article.
Rasheed Walker, may likely walk after this season. No worries – the Packers have 1st round pick, Jordan Morgan, waiting in the wings. And when Tom got hurt in week 1 this year? Again, hakuna matata – Gutekunst traded a 6th round pick for Eagles tackle Darrian Kinnard, right before the season started.
Just what has Morgan shown, in the regular season, to anoint him the next starting left tackle? The Packers used four different players at right tackle over the course of the early 2025 season due to Tom's injuries.
who knows what the Packers might have in potential hidden gem, MarShawn Lloyd.
Lloyd has played in only one game and was pedestrian at best. Potential hidden gem?
Gutekunst’s biggest non-Parsons move may have been his decision to sign Jeff Hafley as defensive coordinator.
This author knows nothing about the Packers if he believes Gutekunst, not LaFleur, hired Hafley.
Super Bowl or not, I’m certain new Packers president, Ed Policy, will deservedly reward Gutekunst with a generous new contract this offseason. Lucky Packers fans should rejoice.
I'm really worried that Policy might keep the Packers weird front office structure and retain Gutekunst, the pseudo gm only in charge of player procurement, head coach Matt LaFleur and Russ Ball head of all other football operations. All three reporting to Policy. Rejoice? NO! Worried? YES!
By now, I'm wondering if this was written by Gutekunst.
Bitternotsour
December 05, 2025 at 04:35 pm
so you're saying that the greatest interception record of ALL TIME somehow doesn't warrant a spot in the hall of fame? Brett Favre is the greatest thrower of interceptions in the history of the game and somehow you don't think that's worthy.
kids these days.
Leatherhead
December 05, 2025 at 06:10 pm
No Favre fan here. I think he's the biggest big game liability in NFL history, and nobody else is even close. The last 10 years of his career in Green Bay he was a mostly mediocre QB who turned it over a lot.
But this is the IRONMAN. On the strength of that alone, he's in the HOF. And I'm a critic, but he's got the best arm I've ever seen. Cold, windy day and he could just fire a 30 yard strike into a guy who was doubled covered.
If he could have just done a better job of protecting the rock in the playoffs, we might have more trophies in the case.
bleedgreen
December 05, 2025 at 11:01 pm
He needed Holmgrens steadying influence. Once he was gone Brett was in gunslinger mode 100%.
dobber
December 06, 2025 at 10:41 am
"By now, I'm wondering if this was written by Gutekunst."
Maybe Gutey is the mysterious third "cleaner"!!
Packers0808
December 05, 2025 at 06:28 pm
Yes Gute has made some clunker choices, but for anyone out there I challenge you to name somebody who hasn't. It seems not everyone has a perfect hit on gold player mystique.
pantz_bURp
December 05, 2025 at 10:28 pm
I believe in the mad lad Gutester. How can you not?
Just appreciate those dimples when he smiles.
I certainly wouldn't let him alone with my girlfriend as I head to the restroom.
He is the original 007,
Pantz B (draggin)
From the Jungle Room
December 06, 2025 at 07:02 am
Fantastic appreciation and praise for the exceptional job that Gutey has been doing as GM. We can gripe and moan about this and that with regards to Gutey but at the end of the day, we're really just howling at the moon.....this cat knows how to do business. I've been a Packers fan for a while, Lombardi had long since gone and the Packers management was a disaster. It wasn't until Bob Harlan got smart and hired a true GM in Ron Wolf that the decades of bad teams and losing records started to fade. From Wolf to Thompson and now Gutey (Mike Sherman will not be considered a GM), the recipe for maintaining a high level of success has continued. While I'll always be partial to Wolf for pulling us out of the abyss, I have to say that Gutey is not too far behind him. He's constantly churning this roster to make it better, trading up or down in the draft to bring more value to the team. Sure there are some missteps, but overall he's done an outstanding job of leading this organization and I look forward to him continuing this for years to come!