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  • Green Bay Packers 2025 Salary-Cap Details: How Much Each Player Will Earn

    Green Bay Packers 2025 Salary-Cap Details: How Much Each Player Will Earn

    The 2025 season is just around the corner for the Green Bay Packers—and with that comes the salary-cap puzzle that fans and analysts alike can’t wait to see the team solve. With the roster set, that means we finally get to see how all 72 players under contract fit into the team’s cap picture. We’ll break down those players by their salary-cap numbers and cash earnings for the upcoming season.

    Only the top 51 cap hits actually count against the team’s overall cap number during the offseason. As of now, the Packers have $32.1 million in cap space. But that figure will shrink quickly as they sign those draft picks, bring on practice-squad players and—potentially—midseason acquisitions. Let’s take a closer look at those numbers.

    The Top Earners: Stars Leading the Pack

    Jordan Love, QB

    • Salary-Cap Number: $29,687,143
    • Cash Earnings: $13,000,000

    As the face of the franchise, Jordan Love tops the list. His massive cap hit reflects the significant investment the Packers are making in their young quarterback. With expectations sky-high, Love will be under the microscope in 2025.

    Rashan Gary, DE

    • Salary-Cap Number: $25,771,135
    • Cash Earnings: $17,250,000

    Gary’s impact on the defensive line has earned him a lucrative deal. His ability to pressure quarterbacks will be crucial for the Packers’ defense.

    Jaire Alexander, CB

    • Salary-Cap Number: $24,994,589
    • Cash Earnings: $17,500,000

    One of the league’s premier cornerbacks, Alexander continues to command top dollar. His presence locks down opposing wide receivers and gives the Packers an edge in pass coverage.

    Kenny Clark, DT

    • Salary-Cap Number: $20,365,000
    • Cash Earnings: $10,500,000

    Clark remains a cornerstone of the Packers’ defensive line. His run-stopping ability and leadership make him indispensable.

    Key Contributors: Mid-Tier Impact Players

    Xavier McKinney, S

    • Salary-Cap Number: $17,850,000
    • Cash Earnings: $12,100,000

    McKinney’s addition strengthens the secondary, providing stability and playmaking ability at safety.

    Elgton Jenkins, OL

    • Salary-Cap Number: $17,600,000
    • Cash Earnings: $12,800,000

    A versatile offensive lineman, Jenkins is vital to protecting Love and paving the way for the running game.

    Josh Jacobs, RB

    • Salary-Cap Number: $11,325,000
    • Cash Earnings: $8,200,000

    Jacobs brings explosiveness to the Packers’ backfield. His ability to break tackles and rack up yards after contact makes him a key weapon.

    Young Talent: Rising Stars on the Roster

    Lukas Van Ness, DE

    • Salary-Cap Number: $4,742,208
    • Cash Earnings: $2,330,736

    Van Ness is poised to make a leap in his second season. His athleticism and motor make him a promising pass-rusher.

    Christian Watson, WR

    • Salary-Cap Number: $2,940,327
    • Cash Earnings: $1,965,141

    Watson’s speed and big-play potential give the Packers a dynamic deep threat. If he stays healthy, he could emerge as one of Love’s favorite targets.

    Luke Musgrave, TE

    • Salary-Cap Number: $2,311,566
    • Cash Earnings: $1,520,522

    Musgrave’s versatility as both a receiver and blocker makes him a valuable asset in the offense.

    Depth Chart: Role Players and Rookies

    The Packers’ depth chart has some interesting dynamics at play. There are players like Brandon McManus (3.49 million cap hit) who bring stability to the team. That’s balanced out by the potential of younger players like Colby Wooden (1.22 million cap hit). Players below the top-51 cutoff—Kitan Oladapo (1.02 million cap hit) and Travis Glover (1 million cap hit)—don’t count against the cap during the offseason, but they could earn their way onto the active roster during the season.

    Cap Space and Future Moves

    With 32.1 million in cap space, the Packers have the flexibility to make moves throughout the year. That includes draft picks, which will consume around 4-5 million. That leaves room for extensions, free-agent signings and mid-season reinforcements. General Manager Brian Gutekunst has to balance spending wisely and keep the roster competitive.

  • How Matt LaFleur Handled Bears Coach’s ‘Beat Us Twice’ Guarantee

    How Matt LaFleur Handled Bears Coach’s ‘Beat Us Twice’ Guarantee

    Ben Johnson didn’t mess around during his intro press conference as the new Chicago Bears head coach. After praising Minnesota’s Kevin O’Connell and Detroit’s Dan Campbell, Johnson couldn’t help himself and took a shot at Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur.

    “I kind of enjoyed beating LaFleur and the Packers twice a year,” Johnson said, referring to his time as the Lions’ offensive coordinator. It was a big statement considering Johnson’s Lions teams went 5-1 against the Packers during his three seasons in Detroit, including season sweeps in 2022 and 2024.

    LaFleur’s Response to Johnson’s Comments

    When asked about Johnson’s comments at the NFL annual meeting, Matt LaFleur didn’t get ruffled—but he wasn’t happy.

    “I’m sure he’s playing to the fans a little bit,” LaFleur told The Athletic. “It is what it is. I’m not going to lose too much sleep over that.”

    While LaFleur is downplaying it publicly, you can bet he’s keeping track. These comments will come back to haunt him when the Packers and Bears play each other in 2025 and add to the already spicy rivalry.

    Packers vs. Bears: A Lopsided Rivalry

    Despite Johnson’s past success against the Packers while with the Lions, his new team—the Bears—hasn’t fared nearly as well. Since LaFleur took over as Green Bay’s head coach in 2019, the Packers have dominated the Bears, posting an impressive 11-1 record.

    However, Chicago managed to snap an 11-game losing streak against Green Bay last season with a thrilling 24-22 victory in Week 18. That win gave Bears fans hope that their team might finally be turning the corner—and with Johnson now at the helm, they’re optimistic about flipping the script in 2025.

    Can Johnson Revitalize the Bears?

    The Bears have been busy this offseason, signaling their intent to compete in the NFC North. They’ve signed six free agents expected to start this season, including three new starters on the offensive line—a unit that struggled mightily in 2024.

    With seven picks in this year’s NFL Draft, including the 10th overall selection and two second-round picks, the Bears are poised to add even more talent to their roster. If Johnson can replicate the offensive success he had in Detroit, the Bears could emerge as legitimate contenders in the division.

    The NFC North: A Division on the Rise

    The NFC North is going to be a tough division this year, thanks to Johnson in Chicago. With O’Connell in Minnesota, Campbell in Detroit, and LaFleur in Green Bay, every game in this division is going to be a fight.

    For the Packers, a healthy Jordan Love will be the key to their 2025 success. Love was hurt all of 2024 but showed flashes when he was on the field. If he can stay healthy, the Packers can win the division again, they last won it in 2021.

  • Packers Show Interest in Ohio State Buckeyes’ CFP Standout

    Packers Show Interest in Ohio State Buckeyes’ CFP Standout

    The Ohio State Buckeyes are sending a bunch of talent to the NFL Draft this month but one name stands out above the rest: defensive end JT Tuimoloau. The 21 year old has been balling out and now he’s being linked to the Green Bay Packers as a second round pick.

    A Packers team desperate for pass rush help Tuimoloau could be exactly what they need.

    A Dominant Force at Ohio State

    Tuimoloau was straight up ridiculous in his final season with the Buckeyes. In 2024, he had 61 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 12.5 sacks. He was one of the most dominant defensive players in college football. His performance in the College Football Playoff was insane where he had 5.5 sacks and helped Ohio State win the national championship.

    Over four years in Columbus, Tuimoloau’s game really came together. By the time he left Ohio State, he’d racked up an impressive 144 tackles, 45 tackles for loss and 23.5 sacks. That kind of production—and the way he produced it—speaks volumes about his impact on the field.

    Why the Packers Need Tuimoloau?

    Green Bay’s pass rush has been a major problem in recent years. Jacob Infante of Pro Football Network thinks drafting Tuimoloau with the 54th overall pick would be a smart move. “Lukas Van Ness still has potential as a young edge rusher, but he’s off to a slow start in the NFL.

    Another rotational defender in the mix would be a good idea for the Packers,” Infante wrote. “Tuimoloau is a gifted athlete with real power, good short-area quickness and a motor that never stops. He’d be a threat opposite Rashan Gary.”

    Tuimoloau’s skill set is a great fit for Green Bay. He has the strength, speed and effort to contribute right away—whether as a rotational piece or a starter if needed. That versatility would be a huge asset to the team.

    Will Tuimoloau Last Until Pick No. 54?

    Tuimoloau could shake up those projections and end up going earlier than expected. That would leave the Packers scrambling to get him before he disappears. Teams are always on the lookout for a defensive end with that kind of upside—and Tuimoloau definitely fits the bill.

    If he does fall to the second round, though, Green Bay would be in a great position at pick 54. That’s where Tuimoloau’s athleticism and motor would really give the Packers’ defense a much-needed jolt. Behind Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, he’d provide depth and that elusive playmaking ability the Packers have been missing.

  • Packers Address Offensive Line in The Athletic’s Latest Mock Draft

    Packers Address Offensive Line in The Athletic’s Latest Mock Draft

    Aaron Banks will be the left guard, Elgton Jenkins will be the center, and Sean Rhyan will be the right guard for the 2025 season. But with Jordan Morgan at left tackle, who will be the depth on the interior line? Bruce Feldman of The Athletic may have the answer in his latest mock draft, which includes quotes from rival coaches.

    In this scenario, the Packers take North Dakota State’s Grey Zabel at 23—a move that could lock up the line for years to come.

    Why Grey Zabel Makes Sense for the Packers?

    Zabel, a 2024 first-team All-American, is the latest in a long line of North Dakota State’s FCS-level offensive linemen. 6-foot-5 7/8, 312 pounds, he’s being compared to other small-school success stories like Cody Mauch and Spencer Brown.

    “He’s a talented, physical kid,” a Missouri Valley head coach told Feldman. “I don’t think he’s as good as Cody Mauch or Spencer Brown, but I think he’s better than Trevor Penning. Grey is a really good athlete, but I think Mauch bent better and was more of a mauler.”

    Zabel didn’t run the 40 or do agility drills at the Scouting Combine but his jumps were elite. His week at the Senior Bowl solidified him as a Day 1 starter.

    “He’s got legit five-position flex,” said NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah. “He’s got good balance, always under control and never on the ground. He’s got strong hands and is really aware of what’s going on and picking things up.”

    Zabel’s Versatility Shines at Senior Bowl

    At the Senior Bowl, Zabel really showed off his range. He excelled at both guard and center during practice—and that was just the beginning. In the game, he took 26 snaps at center and 21 at right guard. That earned him plenty of praise from scouts and analysts.

    “That was an incredible week,” Zabel said at the Combine. “Getting back in pads, feeling the rush of football again—that’s what it’s all about. And to be able to go down to the Senior Bowl, compete against the best and really show what I can do… that was invaluable.”

    Across his college career, Zabel racked up an impressive 2,776 snaps across multiple positions. That’s 974 at left tackle, 463 at left guard, 17 at center, 222 at right guard, 1,064 at right tackle and 42 as an extra tight end. That adaptability is exactly what the Packers look for in their linemen.

    “The key is understanding what’s expected of you in any given situation,” Zabel said. “Where your hand is, what stance you’re in, whether you need to snap the ball… that changes every week. So you just have to be the best football player you can be, no matter where you’re needed.”

    The biggest thing, he explained, is being able to adjust on the fly. “You never know where a team might need you,” he said. “So being prepared for that—and being the best you can be—is what really matters.”

    How Zabel Compares to Other Small-School Linemen?

    North Dakota State has a long history of churning out linemen who are ready for the NFL—and Zabel looks like he could be the next one to follow that path. That dominance he showed last season—just one sack allowed over 16 games—was hard to ignore, even when he was facing smaller schools. The Senior Bowl really helped quiet some of the doubts about how he’d perform against top-notch opponents.

    “Zabel answered some of those smaller-school questions at the Senior Bowl,” Jeremiah said. “North Dakota State has been a factory for linemen. I love the guy, and I think he’s definitely in the mix for a first-round pick.”

  • Adam Schefter Explains Why Aaron Rodgers Hasn’t Signed with a Team Yet

    Adam Schefter Explains Why Aaron Rodgers Hasn’t Signed with a Team Yet

    The world is waiting with bated breath as Aaron Rodgers decides what to do for 2025. Right now it looks like he has two choices: sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers who are interested or hang it up and retire.

    But ESPN’s Adam Schefter just gave us a glimpse into Rodgers’ thinking and it seems like he might still be holding out hope for a third option – the Minnesota Vikings. Let’s get into it.

    Why Rodgers Prefers the Vikings?

    The Steelers are interested, but Rodgers has his heart set on the Vikings. The Vikings are committed to building around J.J. McCarthy their 1st round pick from last year, as their franchise QB.

    But Schefter says Rodgers isn’t ready to give up on the purple and gold just yet.

    “I think he’s waiting to see if over time the odds of signing in Minnesota increase and that opportunity opens up,” Schefter said on UNSPORTSMANLIKE Radio. “The Vikings have never fully ruled it out or squashed it. They haven’t exactly embraced it right now but they also haven’t had OTAs with their 10th overall pick J.J. McCarthy back and leading the team and knowing what it’s like.”

    The Vikings haven’t said no, so the door is slightly ajar, even if it’s not wide open. For a patient and calculated player like Rodgers, this might be enough to keep him waiting.

    Steelers Show Interest, But No Rush

    Rodgers recently met with the Steelers. Mike Tomlin, the team’s head coach, described that meeting as productive. But Tomlin was clear: there’s no internal timeline for Rodgers to make a decision. That’s not necessarily a surprise, given Rodgers’ age—and the fact that he isn’t getting any younger.

    The Steelers might well prefer a long-term solution under center. Yet the allure of adding a future Hall of Famer—even if it’s just for a season or two—could be too tempting to pass up.

    A Disappointing End in New York

    Rodgers’ tenure with the New York Jets ended on a sour note—and left many wondering if he still had anything left in the tank. After that brutal Achilles tear in Week 1 of the 2023 season, Rodgers came back fully healthy in 2024—but just couldn’t seem to get his MVP mojo back.

    Last season, he threw for 3,897 yards and 28 touchdowns, completing 63% of his passes. Those numbers aren’t terrible on paper—but they don’t tell the whole story. Rodgers’ yards per attempt and passer rating were the lowest of his career in a full season. That raises serious questions about whether he can still perform at an elite level.

    The Jets won just six games in 2024—two fewer than they did in 2023, when Rodgers was out with that injury. While some of that decline can be attributed to the Jets’ roster construction issues, Rodgers’ struggles were plain to see.

    What’s Next for Rodgers?

    If the Vikings decide to fully commit to J.J. McCarthy, Rodgers may be forced to face reality—and himself. That’s when he’ll have to choose: join the Steelers for one last hurrah—or walk away from the game for good.

    For a control freak who’s spent his career building a legacy, neither option is exactly what he’d want. Signing with the Steelers could give him a shot at redemption—but also means he’d be seen as a Band-Aid solution rather than a cornerstone. Retiring, on the other hand, would let him go out on his own terms. But that would also mean closing the door on his dream of finishing his career in Minnesota where he wanted it to end.

  • Packers Granted NFL Marketing Rights for Germany, Ireland, and UK

    Packers Granted NFL Marketing Rights for Germany, Ireland, and UK

    The Green Bay Packers are about to become a name that’s familiar to households across Europe. That’s the case-even though they don’t play games there regularly. On Monday, the NFL announced the Packers have been awarded marketing rights for Germany, Ireland and the UK. That’s a big step in the franchise’s efforts to build a global fanbase and really establish itself internationally.

    For a team from a small market city like Green Bay, that’s a pretty bold move into the unknown. Let’s take a closer look at what this means for the Packers, their fans and the NFL’s global ambitions.

    What the Marketing Rights Mean for the Packers?

    The Packers will be able to engage directly with fans in three key European markets: Germany, Ireland and the UK. Ed Policy, the Packers’ chief operating officer (who takes over as president and CEO in July), sees that as an opportunity to really deepen the team’s connection with international audiences. “We’ve seen our global reach grow as we’ve played internationally in two of the last three seasons,” Policy says. “That’s very exciting for us. We’re looking forward to investing in that growth-and building long-term relationships with fans, businesses and organizations in each of those markets.”

    Later this year, the Packers will roll out targeted initiatives in those regions. Think events, digital content and fan-engagement programs tailored to each place. That also opens the door to more corporate partnerships and sponsorship opportunities abroad. And that’s just the beginning.

    The NFL’s Global Markets Program

    The NFL’s Global Markets Program launched in 2022 and allows teams to build brand and fandom beyond the US by engaging fans through events, commercial opportunities, and NFL Flag Football development. The Packers took a wait and see approach but are now in with 28 other teams.

    Three other teams were awarded new market rights on Monday: the Baltimore Ravens (UK), Los Angeles Chargers (Greece) and Washington Commanders (UAE). Note that these rights are not exclusive – 11 teams already have stakes in Germany, 5 in Ireland and 8 in the UK. The Packers are the 12th team to join the program.

    Teams are awarded these rights for at least 5 years to get a foothold in their designated markets. For the Packers this is an opportunity to showcase their history and brand on a global stage.

    Packers’ International Efforts Beyond Marketing

    While the Packers wait to join the Global Markets Program, they’ve been busy with other international initiatives. One of those is the Global Sports Mentoring Program, a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and espnW. This program connects international women in sports with American industry leaders for mentorship.

    Packers representatives have gone to Morocco to support “We Can Morocco,” an organization empowering girls and women through leadership courses and American football sessions. This is part of the team’s efforts to promote inclusivity and gender equality, values they want to take global.

    International Games on the Horizon

    The Packers have already played internationally, hosting two regular-season games abroad: the New York Giants in London in 2022 and the Philadelphia Eagles in São Paulo, Brazil, in 2024. They won’t be playing in Germany this year—or under outgoing President Mark Murphy’s watch—but are open to it in the future.

    The NFL has seven international games scheduled for 2025, including five in the Packers’ new markets. Two of those games are on the Packers’ road schedule: the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin and the Cleveland Browns in London. Final matchups will be announced in May.

    NFL 2025 International Games information:

    NFL 2026 International Games

  • Elgton Jenkins’ Position Change Highlights Potential Shake-Up on Packers’ Offensive Line

    Elgton Jenkins’ Position Change Highlights Potential Shake-Up on Packers’ Offensive Line

    GREEN BAY — It’s official: Elgton Jenkins is moving to center. Packers GM Brian Gutekunst confirmed that on Monday—and not a moment too soon. That shift isn’t the only change in the works for Green Bay’s O-line. Free agency moves and internal competition are really starting to heat things up there. That’s setting the stage for a major reshuffling along the trenches.

    Jenkins’ move from left guard to center comes after the Packers decided not to re-sign Josh Myers at center. Instead, they signed Aaron Banks, a former San Francisco 49ers lineman, to take over at left guard. Where this leaves the rest of the Packers’ O-line—and who else might be on the move—is what we need to consider.

    Elgton Jenkins: A New Role with High Expectations

    The Packers have high hopes for Jenkins in his new role. After starting 85 regular-season games across multiple positions in his six-year career—67 at left guard, eight at left tackle, six at right tackle and four at center—Jenkins now has the chance to cement himself as an elite center.

    “We think he can be an All-Pro center,” Gutekunst said. “We’ve talked about it a lot, how versatility is key to our offensive line and having guys who can move to different spots. Elgton’s one of those guys who can play all five spots.”

    Jenkins started 26 games at center in college at Mississippi State, so he’s got some experience at the position. Some might view the move as a challenge, but Jenkins isn’t worried.

    “I don’t think so,” Jenkins said last year when asked if it would be tough. “It’s not like I haven’t played before. It’s just the fundamentals and stuff like that.”

    With two years left on his current deal, Jenkins’ play at center could impact future contract talks. Gutekunst wouldn’t comment on negotiations but did say Jenkins is valuable to the team.

    “Obviously he’s one of the higher paid guys in the league for a reason—he’s a really good player,” Gutekunst said. “Moving to center was something he’s always thought about in his career and we’re excited to see what he can do.”

    Aaron Banks Brings Size and Power to Left Guard

    To replace Jenkins at left guard, the Packers signed Aaron Banks to a 4 year, $77 million deal. The 6’5 325 pound lineman brings size and strength to Matt LaFleur’s new run game which is physical and downhill to match Josh Jacobs’ running style.

    “He can play physical in the run game and anchor down in pass pro,” Gutekunst said. “He’s played at a high level for a few years now and to get a guy like that in his prime is something I thought would really help us.”

    Banks started 43 of 51 games for the 49ers the last 3 years and 2,583 snaps all at left guard. He’s an upgrade in size and reliability in the interior of the line.

    Jordan Morgan Enters the Mix: Left Tackle Battle Reopens

    Another storyline is the return of 2024 first-rounder Jordan Morgan, who’s rookie season was essentially wiped out due to a shoulder injury he suffered in training camp. Now healthy, Morgan will compete for the left tackle job – a position he wanted when he got into the league.

    “He’ll get a shot there,” Gutekunst said. “I think he’ll really come out. It’ll be good to see that competition and we’ll be better for it.”

    Morgan’s emergence could push Rasheed Walker, who started every game at left tackle last year, to step up his game. Gutekunst praised Walker’s consistency but said competition will make him better.

    “I think Rasheed’s done a lot of good things for us,” Gutekunst said. “Like anything, you’ve got to keep playing at a high level.”

    Contract Extensions Loom for Key Linemen

    With three of their rookies—Rasheed Walker, Sean Rhyan and Zach Tom—entering their final year of their deals this summer, the Packers have some big decisions to make. While Tom seems like the obvious candidate for an extension given his versatility and importance at right tackle, Gutekunst wouldn’t comment on specifics.

    “We’ll get into those conversations probably later on this summer with those guys that are going into their fourth year,” Gutekunst said.

    Getting long term deals for these linemen is key to building continuity up front.

  • 5 Things You Need to Know About Packers LB Kristian Welch

    5 Things You Need to Know About Packers LB Kristian Welch

    The Green Bay Packers have re-signed linebacker Kristian Welch, a true Wisconsinite through and through. Welch, a lifelong Packers fan from Iola, Wisconsin, is stoked to be back in the state he calls home. Here are five things you should know about the returning Packers linebacker, plus why this matters for Welch and the team.

    1. A True Wisconsinite Through and Through

    Welch’s roots run deep in the Badger State. Born and raised in Iola, Wisconsin, a town of less than 1,200 people, Welch was a Packers fan his whole life. He attended Iola-Scandinavia High School, where he was a running back and linebacker.

    As a senior, Welch rushed for over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns on 85 carries, averaging 11.8 yards per carry. On defense, he had 75 tackles and was all-state and all-region. He was also a team captain and MVP on the basketball court.

    Welch has spoken at length about what it means to play for the Packers in front of family and friends at every home game. “That was probably one of the most wholesome experiences of being that close,” Welch said after the 2023 season. “Having at least 10 family members and close friends at every home game made it really special for me—and that was a big part of what made it so special.”

    2. A Special Teams Stalwart

    Welch may not have been a name you’d know during his first stint with the Packers in 2023. But his work on special teams was impossible to ignore. He earned a spot on the active roster just a few weeks into the season-after signing to the practice squad before the regular season even started.

    In 12 regular-season appearances, Welch played almost exclusively on special teams. He finished third on the team with six coverage tackles and logged the fourth-most snaps (210). His energy and tenacity made him a reliable presence on those units. You saw that in his kickoff and punt coverage work.

    This preseason, Welch made a strong case for a spot on the initial 53-man roster. He led the Packers with 16 tackles, two interceptions and a fumble recovery during exhibition play. Though he ultimately landed with the Denver Broncos, his performance there—including his first two career defensive starts—showed he can contribute at multiple levels.

    3. Mutual Respect with Rich Bisaccia

    One of the best parts of Welch’s time with the Packers was working under Rich Bisaccia, the special teams coordinator. Bisaccia is a tough but supportive coach and Welch loved him.

    “I love Rich. He’s great,” Welch said last August. “Learning his system has been fun. Really, focusing in on the little things during training camp was something I enjoyed.”

    Welch didn’t make the team last summer, but with Eric Wilson gone (now with the Vikings), there are more opportunities this offseason. With fewer bodies in the mix, Welch could be a core special teamer or even see some time on defense.

    4. A Journeyman Who Keeps Coming Back

    Welch’s NFL journey hasn’t been without its bumps. But the one thing that’s kept him in the league—and in the game—is his perseverance. That was on full display when he entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Baltimore Ravens in 2020. He spent his early years bouncing between the practice squad and active roster. That experience—43 games over four seasons—has given him a sense of what it takes to stick.

    After his release from the Denver Broncos last October, Welch headed back to Baltimore’s practice squad for a month. Then he was right back on the active roster. In nine games with the Ravens, he made his presence known—five tackles and a first regular-season fumble recovery that really stood out. That was in a 34-17 win over Pittsburgh on December 21. You could say that game—and that play—really showed what he’s capable of.

    That resilience, that ability to adapt—and to learn from his mistakes—has earned Welch a lot of respect around the league. Now, with another chance in Green Bay, he’s determined to prove that he belongs.

    5. Part of the Iowa Football Legacy

    Welch is one of those many Iowa Hawkeyes who made the jump to Green Bay. In his college career, which spanned from 2016 to 2021, Welch suited up for 46 games and started 16 of those. He racked up 145 tackles, 4.5 sacks, six passes defensed, two interceptions, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries during that time.

    As a senior, Welch was a defensive captain. He started every game he played in that season—at middle linebacker—and led the Hawkeyes with 87 tackles. That included nine tackles for loss and three sacks. He also added three passes defensed, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery to that total.

    That leadership and toughness he showed in Iowa is exactly what the Packers look for in a player—and what makes him such a good fit for their culture.

    Why This Signing Matters?

    Re-signing Kristian Welch is about embracing a player who embodies the spirit of Wisconsin football. That spirit is all about roots like Welch’s—small-town, hardworking and proud. You see that in his play on special teams, where he flies down the field with passion and determination. And you see it in his drive to step up into a larger defensive role.

    Welch’s re-signing is about building depth and character on this team. And that’s something that will resonate with fans. Bringing him back feels like the right move—for everyone involved.

  • Packers Sign Linebacker Kristian Welch to Bolster Defense

    Packers Sign Linebacker Kristian Welch to Bolster Defense

    The Green Bay Packers are bringing back a familiar face to the roster. On Friday, General Manager Brian Gutekunst announced the signing of Kristian Welch, which adds depth and to the special teams unit.

    Welch was with the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens last season. He’s back in Green Bay because of his hard work and reliability, two traits that make him a valuable NFL player.

    A Veteran of the League

    Kristian Welch’s NFL career began when he signed as an undrafted free agent with the Baltimore Ravens in 2020 after playing college football at the University of Iowa. Since then, the Iola, Wisconsin native has found a role as a special teams contributor and rotational linebacker.

    In his five-year career (2020-2024), Welch has played in 72 regular season games, started two of them. His primary role has been on special teams where he has 27 tackles and a fumble recovery. He’s also had 13 defensive tackles (6 solo). He’s played in seven postseason games with four special teams tackles.

    Welch’s Impact on the Packers

    Welch’s return to Green Bay feels like coming home. Last season was a trial by fire for him. He started on the practice squad, got elevated to the active roster in late September—and then played in 12 regular-season games and both postseason contests. He ranked third on the team with six special teams tackles.

    That consistency and depth are what the Packers value most. Welch’s familiarity with their system makes him a natural fit. And his leadership on special teams—plus his ability to step in when needed—is exactly what the Packers will need to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.

    Why This Signing Matters?

    Special teams can be the difference-maker in close games. Welch excels in those high-pressure situations. His experience and hustle make him a reliable option for Matt LaFleur and Rich Bisaccia. And by re-signing him, the Packers show they’re committed to building a well-rounded roster. That’s just as important as those splashy free-agent signings that get all the headlines.

    As the Packers continue to build their 2024 roster, Welch brings stability and experience. He can make key stops on special teams or step into a bigger role on defense. That versatility is an asset. And for Packers fans, Welch’s return is a reminder that—no matter where you came from—hard work and determination can take you a long way. Welch was undrafted out of college. Now he’s back where it all started for him: Green Bay.

  • Who Is Kevin Manara? The Packers’ New General Counsel Hire

    Who Is Kevin Manara? The Packers’ New General Counsel Hire

    The Green Bay Packers have found their new legal ace. Friday the team announced that Kevin Manara will be the new general counsel, bringing experience from the NFL league office and other teams.

    This is part of the Packers’ ongoing effort to build their front office under new president and CEO Ed Policy. It’s a move that shows the organization is committed to building a leadership team to navigate the challenges of professional sports.

    A New Chapter for the Packers

    “We’re excited to have Kevin in Green Bay,” said Ed Policy in a team release. “He has experience at the league and team level that will be huge for the Packers and our overall operations. We look forward to his contributions as a member of our Senior Staff.”

    Manara is a big get for the Packers who are clearly building a top shelf management team. His experience in high stakes legal matters and knowledge of the NFL will be huge for this role.

    Who is Kevin Manara?

    Kevin Manara joined the Packers after serving as the Arizona Cardinals’ general counsel since July 2023. Before that, he spent years as the Las Vegas Raiders’ senior vice president and general counsel. He was the one who navigated those teams through their most complex legal and operational challenges.

    That experience in the NFL goes back even further. Manara worked at the league office from 2008 to 2021. He gained a deep understanding of the sport’s inner workings during that time.

    Why This Hire Matters?

    That kind of diverse experience is exactly what the Packers need to stay competitive on and off the field. With Manara on board, the team is showing it’s serious about running smoothly—and staying ahead of the curve.

    The general counsel role is anything but ceremonial. It’s where the team’s legal, financial and operational challenges come to a head. Manara’s expertise will be crucial in areas like player contracts, league rules and stadium matters. For a team like the Packers, with such a rich history, having someone of Manara’s caliber around ensures stability and continuity in an ever-changing league.

    As the Packers continue to transition under Ed Policy’s leadership, moves like this one show where the team is headed. Manara will be working closely with the executive staff to make sure everything runs smoothly. You won’t always see him in the spotlight, but a strong general counsel like Manara is exactly what the team needs to tackle any challenge that comes its way.