After draft weekend, we have a better look at the Packers offseason moves. The Packers had plenty to address while doing so on a budget.
With no first-round pick, only six selections were made. Brian Gutekunst values having a ton of picks in the draft, working with little the Packers needed to make more. Moving into training camp, there is several spots with competition.
Between trades made, free-agent signings, and contract extensions, the Packers set themselves up for success in the draft. Every need was addressed, and the countdown to the regular season is on.
How the Packers Addressed Key Roster Needs
Nine players ended up leaving the Packers all with different circumstances. With Jeff Hafley heading to the Miami Dolphins, they moved on signing Malik Willis. Willis left to have a chance at a starting quartberback role.
Other players that departed include Quay Walker, Romeo Doubs, and Rasheed Walker while releasing Elgton Jenkins and Nate Hobbs. In order to recoup draft capital, they traded Rashan Gary and Dontayvion Wicks. Most notably, receiving a fourth-round pick after an underperforming season from Gary.
Colby Walker left in a trade for Zaire Franklin. The Packers have usually target younger players. For the past two seasons, this was the youngest team in the league. Adding Frankling signifies the need for veteran leadership.
Gutekunst’s main free agent signing was defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. Overall, the team addressed the issues with depth practically. Every move was made thinking long term while also addressing the short-term Super Bowl window.
Gutekunst also let players go at the right time. The release of Nate Hobbs showed the team is willing to bite the bullet and admitting they made the wrong signing.
Value free agents included Skyy Moore to address the lack of punt/kick return skills, and Benjamin St. Juste to bring competition to the cornerback room. Jayden Reed and Sean Rhyan received contract extensions, with expectations of Christian Watson and Tucker Kraft next in line.
The draft brought immediate talent to the team. Benjamin Cisse could be a day one starter at cornerback. Dani Dennis-Sutton adds to the edge room. Trey Smack will be challenging Brandon McManus at kicker.
After post season heartbreaks, the way Gutekunst’s team handled things signals hearing the concerns of the fans. We can’t wait for McManus to make kicks; we can’t expect Jayden Reed to be a returner while being a top three receiver.
Thanks to the Packers addressing issues with urgency, but also being realistic about the salary cap, the time to find long term success is right now. Gutekunst brought the pieces, now it is on Matt LaFleur to utilize them to the best of their ability.
