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  • Packers Eye Bold Move as QB Market Shifts

    Packers Eye Bold Move as QB Market Shifts

    The NFL is a league where one team’s misfortune is another’s opportunity. With Derek Carr potentially out for all of 2025 with a shoulder injury, the New Orleans Saints are scrambling to find a quarterback. For the Green Bay Packers, this could be a domino effect that helps them in the long run, especially when it comes to Malik Willis.

    Derek Carr’s Injury Creates Chaos in New Orleans

    If Carr can’t play the Saints will almost certainly draft a quarterback in two weeks. But it’s not that simple. Shedeur Sanders might not fall to the 9th pick and drafting other quarterbacks early would feel like a reach. Even, if they go Day 2 they should give a rookie time to develop behind a veteran starter.

    But here’s the thing: New Orleans isn’t exactly in a position to invest in an aging veteran with their current cap situation. Last year, Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener got chances under center and both were a mess. That’s where Malik Willis comes in.

    Why Malik Willis Could Be the Perfect Fit for the Saints?

    Willis is only 25 so he has upside as a long term solution. He hasn’t lived up to his 2nd round pick yet but his recent play with the Packers has gotten some of his value back. A trade for him wouldn’t require a huge investment—a 3rd round pick could do it. Coincidentally, the Saints have 2 3rds and the 93rd overall pick is a reasonable enough to get Green Bay to move him.

    Plus, he’s on his rookie contract so he’s an affordable option for a cash strapped team like the Saints. This gives them flexibility and allows them to develop Willis into their QB of the future without breaking the bank.

    Malik Willis’ Resurgence in Green Bay

    When the Packers traded for Malik Willis last year for a 7th round pick nobody thought he’d be this big of a deal. But over 4 games including starts against the Colts and Titans he showed flashes.

    In Week 2 against Indy Matt LaFleur rode the run hard but when called upon Willis was nearly perfect through the air. Against Tennessee he shined brightest, 13 of 19 for 202 yards and a TD and 73 rushing yards and another TD on 6 carries. His ability to create outside structure gives him value even if he’s never going to be a high volume passer.

    Willis got a scaled back playbook to protect him, but he showed us, he’s more than capable of stepping in when needed. He’s become an asset and now the Packers may trade him for the right price.

    What Makes a Trade Work for the Packers?

    If the Packers move Willis, it has to cost them. He’s in the final year of his rookie deal and has a $1.4 million cap hit in 2025. If he’s traded, all the salary is assumed by the acquiring team, and there’s no dead money for the Packers.

    But moving Willis creates a hole at backup quarterback. Free agent options like Carson Wentz or Desmond Ridder aren’t exactly inspiring as a replacement. To take that risk, the compensation has to be big.

    The Packers have financial constraints heading into 2026. If Willis walks into free agency next offseason, the Packers get a compensatory pick in 2027. Any trade this year has to be better than that. A 5th rounder won’t cut it; even a 4th might not be enough. But a Day 2 pick? Now we’re talking.

    Brian Gutekunst has always prioritized top 100 picks. Remember the Rasul Douglas trade? Or the Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams blockbuster deals? The Packers love accumulating picks, and a Willis trade could give them exactly that.

    Why This Move Benefits Both Teams?

    For the Saints, it brings stability and a bridge to their rookie draft pick and doesn’t commit too many resources to a stopgap veteran. For the Packers, it brings back valuable draft capital and allows them to address other needs.

    Losing Willis means taking a step back at QB2, but the front office has shown they can find ways to adapt. Whether it’s a developmental prospect or a low cost veteran, they’ll figure it out. And with Jordan Love locked in as the starter, the immediate impact would be

  • Packers Fans Won’t Miss Former Draft Bust After Offseason Exit

    Packers Fans Won’t Miss Former Draft Bust After Offseason Exit

    The Packers have been quiet in free agency this offseason and are focusing on the draft and developing their current roster. One of the departures is cornerback Eric Stokes who signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. For us, his departure won’t leave a big hole—his four years in Green Bay were marked by inconsistency, injuries and unmet expectations.

    A Promising Start That Never Materialized

    When the Packers took Eric Stokes in the 1st round of the 2021 NFL Draft, they thought they were getting a cornerstone of their secondary. And for a minute, it looked like they did. As a rookie, Stokes was a stud, with 55 total tackles, 14 pass deflections, 1 INT. He was fast, athletic and exciting and fans were high on him.

    But that promising start didn’t last. In 2022, he suffered a Lisfranc fracture and missed 8 games. 2023 was even worse, he only played 6 games due to hamstring issues. By 2024, he managed to play 17 games but didn’t do much of anything. He started 7 games and had 41 total tackles and 0 pass deflections or INTs.

    According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Stokes had a 61.3 overall grade (112th among 222 cornerbacks) and a 62.4 coverage grade (94th among 222 cornerbacks). Opposing QBs ate him up, with a 96.7 passer rating against him and 9.9 yards per reception.

    Injuries and Inconsistency Defined His Tenure

    One of the most important jobs a player can do is just be available. Unfortunately, Stokes was not available for most of his Packers career. Between the Lisfranc injury, hamstring issues, and other ailments, he missed a lot of time. When he did play he wasn’t very good.

    For a team that relies on its defense, having a cornerback who can’t contribute is a liability. Stokes’ inability to build on his rookie year turned what could have been a long term asset into a frustrating gamble that didn’t pay off.

    Packers Shift Focus to the Future

    Now that Stokes is out of the picture, the Packers are looking to rebuild their secondary. They have a big decision to make on Jaire Alexander, their star corner, whose contract is up in the air. If he stays, he’ll be the anchor of the unit, but if he leaves, they’ll need to find new answers in the defensive backfield.

    Stokes’ departure also highlights the importance of drafting and developing talent. While his rookie season showed flashes of promise, his lack of growth made his time here feel like a wasted opportunity. The Packers hope not to make the same mistake again as they rebuild and try to compete in the tough NFC North.

    Why Fans Won’t Miss No. 21?

    For Packers fans, Eric Stokes’ departure is the end of a chapter that never really lived up to the hype. Beyond his injuries, he was just not productive when healthy. His final season in Green Bay—a year with zero interceptions or pass breakups—was like his entire tenure.

    Stokes had some bright spots, especially as a rookie, but inconsistency and not being on the field won’t be missed. With younger players waiting in the wings and the Packers in rebuild mode, fans won’t be crying over No. 21 leaving town.

  • Packers’ Pass Rush Hopes Rest on Lukas Van Ness’ Shoulders

    Packers’ Pass Rush Hopes Rest on Lukas Van Ness’ Shoulders

    As the Green Bay Packers get ready for the 2025 season, all eyes are on second year defensive lineman Lukas Van Ness. After a promising but up and down rookie year, Van Ness is focused on proving himself as a building block of the Packers pass rush.

    With the team feeling good about the current roster, Van Ness knows this year is big – not just for him but for the defense as a whole.

    Brian Gutekunst’s Roster Confidence

    At the NFL Combine and league meetings this offseason, General Manager Brian Gutekunst said the Packers pass rush has everything it needs. He acknowledged there’s room for improvement but likes the young guys to step up.

    “I think we can do everything we need to do with the guys we have on the roster right now,” Gutekunst said last week. “I think there’s a lot of improvement for those guys, not only in Year 2 of a scheme but just individually as well.”

    The Packers invested a lot in the defensive line over the last two drafts with guys like Devonte Wyatt , Kingsley Enagbare , Colby Wooden and Karl Brooks and Van Ness. Now the expectation is clear: those guys need to step up and produce.

    Van Ness’ Mindset Heading Into 2025

    For Lukas Van Ness the message is simple: he’s ready to take the next step. As a first-round pick (13th overall in 2023), Van Ness knows what’s expected of him—and he’s determined to exceed it.

    “This is the most important one as it’s the next one ahead,” Van Ness said Tuesday on the Packers Tailgate Tour. “This is my job. I love what I do, I love playing football. My goal every single day is to come to work and put that effort in and then put the best product on the field on Sundays.”

    Van Ness showed flashes of brilliance last season—four sacks in a seven-game stretch, including the playoffs—but his overall numbers haven’t lived up to his draft status. In 37 total games (including playoffs) he’s got eight sacks and 17 quarterback hits playing around 30-40% of the defensive snaps.

    Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change

    Van Ness’ journey hasn’t been easy. As a rookie he was asked to go from a hand in the dirt defensive lineman to a stand up edge rusher—a big ask for any player. Then in 2024 new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley went to a 4-3 front and Van Ness had to go back to his old role.

    But Van Ness hasn’t used those as excuses. He sees them as opportunities to grow.

    “Ultimately it’s part of the game,” Van Ness said. “It’s just a circumstance. At the end of the day I’ve got to continue to take those leaps and grow as a player. Those are just things I’ve had to work through.”

    Now, another change is coming his way—one that could be big. The Packers hired DeMarcus Covington as their new defensive line coach to get more consistency out of their pass rushers. Van Ness has only had a few conversations with Covington so far but he likes what he’s seen.

    “He’s really easy to talk to,” Van Ness said. “I’m looking forward to what’s next.”

    A Focus on Health and Preparation

    This offseason Van Ness has been in California and says he’s feeling healthier and stronger than ever. The Packers Tailgate Tour is a nice break from the grind and allows him to connect with fans all over Wisconsin. But once the tour is over it’s back to business as the Packers start their official offseason program.

    Van Ness thinks the competition in the D-line room will bring out the best in everyone. Whether the Packers add more edge rushers in the draft or not, he’s confident in the group.

    “Whether we take two guys or we take nobody, I think we’re all going to come to work every day, we’re going to compete against each other for our spots and we’re going to work hard,” Van Ness said. “I love the guys we have in our room.”

    Why This Season Matters for Van Ness?

    With high expectations from the organization and himself, 2025 is a big year for Van Ness. If he can settle into a role and produce what the Packers thought they were getting when they drafted him, he could be a big piece of the Packers’ defense.

  • Green Bay Packers Keep Scouting Talent Ahead of 2025 NFL Draft

    Green Bay Packers Keep Scouting Talent Ahead of 2025 NFL Draft

    The Packers are in full swing with their pre-draft visits and over the last two days, three more have been reported. That brings the total to 15 of the 30 they’re allowed this offseason. It looks like they’re really targeting offensive linemen—especially late round picks or undrafted free agents—as they make up most of their visits so far.

    Cincinnati Tackle John Williams On Packers’ Radar

    You can add John Williams , a tackle from Cincinnati to the Packers’ growing list of offensive line prospects. According to Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Williams visited the Packers recently. Ranked 249th overall on the consensus draft board, Williams isn’t a household name but he brings some interesting traits to the table.

    Williams was a two-year starter for the Bearcats and ran a 5.17 40-yard dash at 6’4” 322 pounds. But what really sets him apart is his academic background—he majored in aerospace engineering . He’s as smart off the field as he is strong on it. Williams might not be a high draft pick but his size and smarts make him an interesting option for Green Bay in the later rounds or as an undrafted signing.

    Anthony Belton: A Higher-Round OL Prospect

    In addition to Williams, the Packers are also meeting with Anthony Belton , an OL from North Carolina State who will go much higher in the draft. In fact, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. has Belton going in the 2nd round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

    Belton is a 6th year player who spent 2 years at Georgia Military Academy before moving to Division I football. At NC State he started all 32 games at left tackle over 4 years, showing durability and consistency. 6’6” 336 pounds, Belton was impressive for his size with a 7.77 3 cone and a 4.69 short shuttle at his pro day.

    If the Packers are looking for a higher round OL prospect Belton could be the guy. His experience, athleticism and size makes him a versatile option for the Packers OL.

    Florida CB Jason Marshall Jr.: Speed and Upside in the Secondary

    The Packers aren’t just looking at the trenches—they’re also looking at the secondary. Another player reported to have visited Green Bay is Jason Marshall Jr., a cornerback from Florida. Marshall was a 3.5-year starter for the Gators after being a five-star recruit out of high school. But his 2024 season was cut short due to a shoulder injury which may impact his draft stock.

    At the NFL Combine, Marshall ran a 4.49 40 and had a 37.5 inch vertical, showing his speed and explosiveness. Despite the injury concerns, his physical tools and pedigree make him a late round option or priority undrafted free agent for the Packers.

    Why the Focus on Offensive Linemen?

    It’s clear the Packers are casting a wide net on O-linemen. With players like John Williams and Anthony Belton, Green Bay is looking at both ends of the spectrum—from late round developmental projects to higher round starters. This tells me the team is prioritizing depth and versatility on the O-line which will be key as they continue to build around their young QB.

  • NFL Fans Buzzing Over Steelers’ Ireland Opponent Hint

    NFL Fans Buzzing Over Steelers’ Ireland Opponent Hint

    The Pittsburgh Steelers will make history this season by playing their first ever regular season game in Ireland, and while the opponent hasn’t been announced yet, all signs point to the Green Bay Packers. On Monday, the Packers were granted global marketing rights in Ireland, which has led to speculation that they will face the Steelers at Croke Park on September 28—Week 4 of the NFL season.

    Why the Packers Seem Likely as the Opponent?

    The NFL hasn’t confirmed the opponent, date, or kick off time for the Ireland game yet, but hints are building that it will be the Packers coming to Dublin. The timing of the announcement aligns with the league’s schedule release, which typically happens in mid to late spring.

    “It will be in and around the (entire) schedule release,” said NFL executive Peter O’Reilly. “If not in that window of the schedule release, right prior to that.”

    For Steelers fans, the matchup against Green Bay would be extra special. Both teams have deep history and the Packers recent focus on growing their brand in Ireland adds weight to the rumors.

    Steelers’ History in Ireland—and What’s Different This Time

    The Steelers have been to Ireland before. That was back in 1997 when they played a preseason game against the Chicago Bears at Croke Park. This year’s game will be different. It’s a regular-season game—and that makes it a big deal for both the team and the league.

    That rule about teams forfeiting a home game every eight years to play internationally? It’s one the Steelers have never had to follow. They’ve played as the visiting team in London against the Minnesota Vikings in 2013. But this time, they get to host the event. And that’s a first.

    Rooney Family’s Deep Ties to Ireland

    The decision to host a game in Ireland holds special meaning for the Rooney family, whose connection to the Emerald Isle runs deep. Dan Rooney, the late Steelers owner and former U.S. Ambassador to Ireland (2009-2012), co-founded The Ireland Funds , a charity dedicated to supporting Irish causes. He always dreamed of seeing the Steelers play a regular-season game in Ireland.

    “I’m really excited about it, to be quite honest with you,” said Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. “I just think about the late, great Ambassador [Daniel M.] Rooney, and how fired up he would be about it, and so it makes me smile when I think about it. It’s an honor to represent our game and our country over there, and I look forward to doing so.”

    Steelers president Art Rooney II echoed Tomlin’s sentiment, expressing pride in bringing the team to Ireland.

    “We’re excited to be going to Ireland,” Rooney said. “I told the league we need more tickets. The demand so far has been great, and we’re looking forward to it.”

    Rooney even joked about wearing his green suit jacket more often lately—a nod to the family’s Irish heritage.

    What We Know About the Game So Far

    While details remain scarce, sources indicate the Steelers’ Ireland game is expected to take place on September 28 , which falls in Week 4 of the NFL season. The venue, Croke Park , is steeped in history and serves as the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association. It last hosted an NFL game in 1997, making this year’s contest a nostalgic return for football fans in Ireland.

    Mike Tomlin admitted he doesn’t know much about the logistics yet but assured fans the team will be ready.

    “I have no idea. We’ll be there,” Tomlin said with a grin.

  • Ben Roethlisberger’s Theory: Is Aaron Rodgers Still Holding Out for Minnesota?

    Ben Roethlisberger’s Theory: Is Aaron Rodgers Still Holding Out for Minnesota?

    The NFL offseason is always a time of uncertainty—and this year is no exception. Aaron Rodgers’ future has been at the center of all that uncertainty. Ben Roethlisberger, a Steelers legend, is adding to that uncertainty on his podcast, Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger. Big Ben thinks he knows why Rodgers hasn’t yet signed with Pittsburgh—despite throwing passes to DK Metcalf and showing off his workouts to the world.

    Big Ben’s Theory: Rodgers Is Secretly Hoping for Minnesota

    That’s where the Vikings come in. Roethlisberger believes Rodgers might still be holding out hope for a deal with Minnesota—even as the Steelers remain very much in the mix.

    Ben Roethlisberger isn’t beating around the bush when it comes to his theory on Rodgers. “Aaron is secretly still holding out for Minnesota,” he says. “Why else would you go through the motions of throwing with DK and working out and showing off to the world that you’re in shape—but not sign with the Steelers?”

    Rodgers’ actions have left fans and analysts scratching their heads. He’s clearly staying in shape and preparing for another season. But his reluctance to put pen to paper with Pittsburgh raises all sorts of questions. Is he waiting for Minnesota to make a move?

    Is Rodgers Waiting for the Steelers to Improve Their Roster?

    The question of whether Rodgers is waiting for the Steelers to get their roster in order before committing is an intriguing one. Pittsburgh has been active in free agency, but the real question is what they’ll do in the draft.

    As Roethlisberger pointed out, “Is Rodgers waiting for the Steelers to beef up the roster more in free agency—or to see what they do in the draft?”

    If that’s the case, it would suggest Rodgers has a pretty clear idea of what he wants in a team: one that’s ready to contend right away. That’s been a hallmark of his career decisions in recent years—and what you’d expect from a quarterback who’s been in the league as long as he has.

    Minnesota: The Closer Team to a Super Bowl?

    Ben Roethlisberger floated an idea that Aaron Rodgers might see the Vikings as the more complete team capable of winning a championship. And that might not be far-fetched.

    “I think he views Minnesota as a more complete team that could actually win a Super Bowl,” Roethlisberger said. “And that’s not a bad call.” That Vikings have publicly anointed J.J. McCarthy as their starting quarterback for 2025—rumors persist that Rodgers may have gotten some inside information from head coach Kevin O’Connell. Who had those conversations with him earlier this offseason.

    Could Rodgers Be Considering Retirement?

    One question that keeps coming up is whether Rodgers is thinking about retirement. Roethlisberger doesn’t buy that theory—at least not based on what he’s seeing.

    “Look at him: he’s throwing footballs to DK Metcalf,” Roethlisberger pointed out. “If he were really done, I don’t think he’d be doing that.” For now, Rodgers’ plans remain very much up in the air.

    That uncertainty is fueling endless speculation. And adding another layer to the mystery is some secondhand gossip Roethlisberger heard from a chef. Who claims Rodgers might be buying a home in Robinson—a Pittsburgh suburb near the airport.

    Rodgers Buying a Home Near Pittsburgh

    Another layer to the mystery, Roethlisberger shared some secondhand info he heard from a chef who said Rodgers might be buying a home in Robinson , a Pittsburgh suburb near the airport.

    No proof, but it’s enough to keep Steelers fans hopeful and Vikings fans nervous.

    Speculation Will Continue Until Rodgers Signs or Retires

    As long as Aaron Rodgers remains unsigned and hasn’t retired, the rumors will keep coming. Whether it’s Pittsburgh, Minnesota or a surprise twist, we’ll be watching.

    “This isn’t the last Rodgers-Vikings conspiracy you’ll hear this spring,” Roethlisberger said.

  • Associated Bank’s Support for Packers’ 2025 NFL Draft Bid Explained

    Associated Bank’s Support for Packers’ 2025 NFL Draft Bid Explained

    The excitement is building in Green Bay as the outlines of the 2025 NFL Draft stage are starting to take shape in Lot 4 and Oneida Street. For Packers staff, many of whom have celebrated Super Bowls, this is a new kind of thrill – one that’s rooted in community pride and teamwork.

    Even Wisconsin artists are getting in on the action, with one local artist chosen by the NFL to create an art installation for the player walkway. This is more than just a sports event; it’s a celebration of Green Bay’s culture, history and spirit.

    Building the Dream: A “Lego-Like” Process

    For Packers director of public affairs Aaron Popkey, watching the draft come together is like building something from scratch.

    “It’s like when you get your Legos out of the box for the first time and you separate all the pieces and then you start building,” Popkey said. “It’s been years in the making, working with the organization, local sponsors and the NFL. Thanks to our partnerships with key organizations, Green Bay is going to host one of the most epic drafts in NFL history.”

    Hosting the NFL Draft was a team effort—and Mike Haddad of Schreiber Foods was right at the center of that. He chaired the Green Bay NFL Draft Host Committee.

    “Mark Murphy came to us and said, ‘I want to make the draft happen here in Green Bay. Can you help me?’” Haddad recalled. “Our job was to find some of the best organizations in the area to bring that vision to life.

    One of the first calls Haddad made was to Associated Bank—a bank that’s been synonymous with Packers history since 1919.

    Associated Bank: A Century-Old Partnership

    Associated Bank’s ties to the Packers run deep. That relationship goes back a century. “We’ve been the Packers’ bank for 106 years,” said Andy Harmening, president & CEO of Associated Bank. “When the question came up a few years ago—’If we get the draft, will you support us?’—the answer was a quick yes.

    That commitment was reinforced recently when Harmening announced at an internal town hall for Associated Bank employees that the company had renewed its partnership with the Packers for another decade. That dedication is to both the team and the community that supports it.

    Associated Bank was one of the first—and most vocal—companies in the community to say, “We’ll help you host this event,” Popkey noted.

    Six Years of Persistence Pays Off

    Six years of persistence—and a healthy dose of perseverance—finally pay off in Green Bay. Haddad looks back on that journey with pride—and a sense of accomplishment that comes from seeing a vision through to the end.

    “That pride in achievement is something I feel lucky to have experienced,” he says. “I remember when this was just an idea, a twinkle in the eye.”

    The hard work of countless individuals and organizations is finally paying off. National attention is coming to Titletown in a big way.

    Final Preparations Underway

    Final preparations are really ramping up now as the draft approaches. Nick Meisner, part of the planning team, gave an update at the town hall. “The NFL is very happy with where we are from a planning perspective,” he said. “We’re just putting the finishing touches on everything.”

    Meisner advises local businesses—especially those near the draft footprint—to get ready for a lot more traffic. “Be prepared to serve quickly,” he tells them. “Those businesses around the footprint need to be ready for that influx of people.”

  • 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.