The Green Bay Packers’ Disappointing End to 2024-25: What’s Next?
The Green Bay Packers’ 2024-25 season officially concluded with a Wild Card loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. For head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst, this marks the beginning of a pivotal offseason filled with pressing questions and critical decisions.
A Season That Fell Short of Expectations
The Packers’ 2024 campaign was underwhelming by all accounts. Following a promising 2023 season led by an emerging Jordan Love, the Packers entered 2024 with high hopes. Love, fresh off a playoff run that included a road victory over the Dallas Cowboys, seemed poised to lead a young, hungry team to greater heights. Investments in talent like Josh Jacobs at running back, Xavier McKinney at safety, and defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley’s transition to a 4-3 scheme further fueled optimism.
Yet, despite notable individual performances and defensive improvement, the team regressed. Jordan Love’s inconsistencies, coupled with LaFleur’s shortcomings as a play-caller, left Green Bay searching for answers.
Mounting Challenges Heading into 2025
Compounding matters are injuries to key players. Wide receiver Christian Watson is set to miss most of the 2025 season due to a torn ACL, and star cornerback Jaire Alexander’s future with the team is uncertain. In a competitive NFC North featuring surging teams like the Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Chicago Bears, the Packers face a critical juncture.
Offseason Priorities for the Packers
Reignite Jordan Love’s Potential
Jordan Love showed flashes of brilliance in 2024 but failed to consistently deliver. His 3,389 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions tell part of the story, but his shaky performances in key moments—culminating in a no-touchdown, three-interception playoff outing—highlight the need for growth.
The Packers must prioritize Love’s development this offseason. Whether through tailored training programs, improved coaching strategies, or better roster support, restoring Love’s confidence and consistency is essential. With his elite arm talent, Love has the tools to succeed if given the right environment.
Bolster the Receiving Corps
Green Bay’s decision to rely on internal development from Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, and Dontayvion Wicks backfired. All four receivers regressed in 2024, leaving Love without reliable options. To compete in 2025, the Packers must secure a proven WR1 and WR2.
Potential targets include Tee Higgins, should he become available, or a reunion with Davante Adams if the New York Jets release him. Adding a top-tier receiver through free agency or the draft is critical to giving Love the weapons he needs.
Strengthen the Pass Rush
While Jeff Hafley brought noticeable improvement to the Packers’ defense, the pass rush remains a concern. Rashan Gary recorded 8.5 sacks, including the playoffs, but lacks the dominance to anchor the defensive front alone. Lukas Van Ness, drafted 13th overall in 2023, failed to make a significant impact, recording only three sacks.
To elevate the defense, the Packers must add an elite edge rusher to complement Gary. This can be achieved through strategic free-agent signings or selecting a game-changing pass rusher in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Looking Ahead to a Defining Offseason
The Packers stand at a crossroads. With a mix of young talent and lingering uncertainties, this offseason will determine whether Green Bay can return to playoff contention or continue to fall short. By focusing on Jordan Love’s development, upgrading the receiving corps, and fortifying the pass rush, the Packers can lay the foundation for a brighter future in the competitive NFC North.
