Green Bay Packers: Stepping Up in 2023 with Big Decisions Ahead for 2025

The Green Bay Packers made significant strides in 2023 as they continued their retooling process. While they showed improvement throughout 2024, the results in the latter half of the season left some disappointment and raised questions about the progress of their development plan. Looking ahead to 2025, General Manager Brian Gutekunst and Head Coach Matt LaFleur face the challenge of elevating the Packers from a good team to a great one, a monumental task considering the NFL’s structure and emphasis on parity. With several crucial decisions to be made, the Packers’ offseason will play a pivotal role in determining their future success.

1. Is the Packers’ Receiving Corps Enough to Take the Next Step?

The Packers face an intriguing dilemma with their receiving core. With Christian Watson sidelined until Week 12, Green Bay’s wide receiver group consists of Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, Dontayvion Wicks, Malik Heath, and Bo Melton (assuming the Packers offer him the ERFA tender). The Packers have insisted that they don’t need a star WR1, but is this group enough to propel the offense forward?

Brian Gutekunst remains optimistic, reflecting on a midseason period when the team’s offense was explosive. However, the challenge remains to see if any one of these receivers can establish a prominent role moving forward. Free agency offers some potential, but finding affordable, high-level wide receivers is challenging. Gutekunst will need to carefully navigate these waters, weighing cost, talent, and the future of the position.

2. Will Jaire Alexander Stay or Go?

A major question hanging over the Packers’ future is the status of cornerback Jaire Alexander. Currently, at a $17.5 million salary, it’s likely that the Packers will move on from him unless he is willing to take a pay cut. While Gutekunst acknowledges Alexander’s impact, injuries over the past four seasons make it difficult for the team to justify such a large investment. If Alexander does leave, the Packers will need to find a way to fill the void in the secondary, especially considering the looming free agency of Eric Stokes.

3. Addressing the Need for a Major Defensive Piece

While cornerback is a pressing need, the Packers also require help on the defensive line, particularly at edge rusher. The Packers saw less production from their defensive ends than anticipated in 2024, and it will be crucial for players like Lukas Van Ness and Kingsley Enagbare to step up. With Rashan Gary as the cornerstone, the Packers need to bolster their pass rush to compete at a higher level. A big move in the offseason could significantly impact their defensive success.

4. Will the Packers Continue Their Free Agency Strategy?

Under Gutekunst, the Packers have embraced an aggressive approach to free agency. However, after Jeff Hafley’s successful first year, the team may consider focusing more on scheme fits and volume signings, even if the talent level isn’t as high as the Xavier McKinney signing. A more balanced approach could help strengthen the team without overspending on marquee names.

5. How Active Will Brian Gutekunst Be in the Offseason?

With ample cap space and strong draft capital, the Packers are positioned to make significant moves this offseason. While free agency offers some opportunities for additions, Gutekunst remains cautious when it comes to trading high draft picks for veteran players. Trading a young, cost-effective contract for an older, more expensive player is a delicate balance, and Gutekunst will need to ensure any trade makes sense for the long-term success of the team.

6. What’s the Plan for the Interior Offensive Line?

With center Josh Myers set to become a free agent, the Packers may face tough decisions regarding the interior of their offensive line. If Myers departs, they could shift Elgton Jenkins or Sean Rhyan to center, but the lack of depth could present a challenge. The Packers may also need to look for backup options to ensure they’re prepared for any injuries or transitions.

7. What Will Happen with Quarterback Backup Jordan Love?

Backup quarterback Jordan Love had a solid showing in 2024, but now the Packers must decide if they want to keep him or move him in a trade. Given the shortage of depth behind starter Jordan Love, it’s likely that Green Bay will keep Willis for another season. His development and the team’s confidence in his future could be crucial as the Packers continue to evaluate their quarterback situation.

8. Who Will Be the Early Extensions Candidates?

With several Packers players now eligible for contract extensions, including members of the 2022 draft class, decisions need to be made on who will get early extensions. Tackle Zach Tom, Rasheed Walker, and receiver Romeo Doubs stand out as strong candidates, with offensive tackles taking priority due to their scarcity. Additionally, the Packers must decide whether to exercise the fifth-year options for Quay Walker and Devonte Wyatt, which could impact the team’s future financial flexibility.

9. Who Will Be the Specialists in 2025?

The Packers face some key questions in their special teams unit. Long snapper Matthew Orzech and punter Daniel Whelan are set to return, but the most pressing question is the kicker position. Brandon McManus showed promise in his first season but had a playoff misstep. If he stays, the Packers will feel good about their specialists’ group moving forward, but they must address this position before the start of the 2025 season.

10. Will There Be Coaching Staff Changes?

With quarterback coach Tom Clements retiring and defensive line coach Jason Rebrovich being let go, the Packers must now turn their attention to potential coaching changes. While no drastic changes are expected, the team will need to find suitable replacements for Clements and Rebrovich. With head coach Matt LaFleur continuing to oversee the team, the Packers’ coaching staff could undergo some tweaks, but it will likely be a quieter offseason compared to the previous year.

Conclusion

As the Packers enter the 2025 season, there are many unanswered questions and critical decisions ahead. With the right moves, Green Bay has the potential to make significant progress. The offseason will set the tone for what is to come, and the future of this team rests on the answers to these pivotal questions. Will the Packers take the next step towards greatness? Only time will tell.