Brian Gutekunst's Offseason To-Do List

The Green Bay Packers' offseason is upon us and I've put together my to-do list for GM Brian Gutekunst. 

The Green Bay Packers' regular season has come to a close, and although it didn't end with the Lombardi Trophy coming back home, I'm sure most will consider this season a success. Think about it, Green Bay went from missing the playoffs back-to-back seasons to all of a sudden totaling 13 regular season wins, winning the NFC North, securing the NFC's No. 2 seed, and they ended up just four quarters away from the Super Bowl. Not bad, if I do say so myself. 

However, as good as this season was, we all saw in the NFC Championship Game that the Packers still have a little ways to go if they want to be true Super Bowl contenders. Yet a big reason for them being in the position that they were in was because of the moves Brian Gutekunst made last offseason. Well, now the 2020 offseason has now arrived and once again, there is work to be done.

So to help Gutey out, I've gone ahead and put together my to-do list for him. Now of course, like many to-do lists, not everything may get done right away and I certainly don't expect each addition to be a top-end free agent or a high-end draft talent. With that said, if a majority of these iteams can be taken care of, it will hopefully help get the Packers back to the Super Bowl - also keep in mind that these are in no particular order.

1. Re-sign Bryan Bulaga and Mason Crosby

The Green Bay Packers have 21 pending free agents and these two fall into my category of "must re-sign." At the moment I don't believe that Bryan Bulaga's replacement is currently on the roster, to be honest, I'm just not a fan of Billy Turner sliding over. And it's not like tackles grow on trees, it's a premier position and they are coveted, so who would they bring in instead of Bulaga at a reasonable price?

Although he has caught a lot of flack for injuries over the years, Bulaga is on the field far more often than he is not and when he is, he's usually playing at a high-level. In fact, this season in 612 pass-blocking snaps, Bulaga allowed just four sacks and four quarterback hits. Keep in mind that this was up against some of the best edge-rushers in the NFL. Pay the man, bring him back, and draft his replacement to sit and learn behind him. 

Then we have Mason Crosby who had a fantastic bounce-back season in 2019 as he'd make 22/24 field goal attempts and he'd go 40/41 on extra point tries. Just take a quick scan around the NFL and look at how difficult it can be to find a reliable kicker, or go ask our friends in Minnesota and Chicago. The Packers shouldn't think twice about bringing Crosby back.  

2. Add 2 or 3 new WRs to the mix

Last offseason Gutey overhauled the edge-rusher and safety positions, now it is time for the wide receiver. We all know Davante Adams is a certified stud and while the emergence of Allen Lazard was greatly needed, he's not a true No. 2 receiver. Then after these two we have a lot of question marks. The Packers still aren't sure what they have in Equanimeous St. Brown, Marquez Valdes-Scantling all but disappeared, Jake Kumerow is fine, and pending free agent Geronimo Allison just flat out struggled. The good news, is that this is a great draft to address this positional need. But let's be sure to give Aaron Rodgers another weapon or two moving forward. 

3. Get Faster at ILB

I think it's safe to say that Blake Martinez won't be back in Green Bay. While he was durable and always around the ball, he had his limitations as well. Instead Gutey should be looking to bring in some speed to the position and someone more capable in coverage to better suit today's NFL. A few early names in the draft to keep your eyes on include Kenneth Murray of Oklahoma and Patrick Queen of LSU. In fact, I'll probably end up highlighting this item because it is an important one that needs to be addressed. 

4. Add CB Depth

Green Bay has a great foundation in Jaire Alexander and Kevin King, not to mention that we also had a surprise breakout season from Chandon Sullivan. Yet after those three, we once again have some unknowns. Tramon Williams is nearing 37-years-old and is a free agent - although I wouldn't mind him back at the right price - meanwhile, the team clearly doesn't trust Josh Jackson, and we don't know yet what they have in Ka'dar Hollman. Whether it be free agency or in the draft at some point, bringing in a corner that could step in and play some snaps if needed isn't a bad idea. 

5. Find Bulaga's Replacement

I mentioned this previously when discussing Bulaga, but it gets its own spot on this list because I think it's that important. For the most part I've already highlighted the importance of this position and that I don't think Bulaga's current replacement is on the roster. So this offseason I would love to see Green Bay spend one of their first three picks on the position in the draft so that player can sit and develop for a year or two before taking over. I don't think that the answer to this problem will come via free agency. 

6. Extend Kenny Clark

With every passing game this season I'm pretty sure Kenny Clark's price went up. While he won't be a free agent until 2021, the Packers shouldn't let it get that far. Actually, they shouldn't even let it get into this upcoming training camp and preseason. Clark is an integral part of this defense and it goes without saying just how good he really is. And that means that giving him a new contract should be done sooner rather than later. 

7. Get Kenny Clark some help

Speaking of Clark, let's get him some help inside this offseason while we are at it. Not to take anything away from Dean Lowry and Tyler Lancaster as they are nice players and if they are your third and fourth options, you're doing pretty well. However, when they are your second and third options, you're going to be exposed at times as we saw this season.

Although as a unit they had their moments, for the most part this defense was gashed in the run game and much of the damage happened between the tackles. Addressing the ILB position will help in this area as well, but Green Bay should be bringing in someone else to add to that interior defensive line to take some of the burden off of Clark. 

8. Sign a veteran TE

I do think that the future of the tight end position is in good hands with Jace Sternberger and I expect Robert Tonyan to be back in 2020 as well. Both have shown flashes in the passing game and that they are willing blockers. With that said, this is one of the more difficult positions when it comes to transitioning from college to the pros, so I think that there is a lot of value in having a veteran presence alongside of these two. And I don't mean just to mentor them, but with how Matt LaFleur uses tight ends, this player is going to see the field too. And one veteran who comes to mind is Marcedes Lewis, who has already stated that he would like to return to Green Bay.

9. Move on from Jimmy Graham and Lane Taylor

From the looks and sounds of it Jimmy Graham may retire, but with it not being official, let's pretend he intends to play in 2020. As good as Gutey was in free agency last offseason, he missed on Graham in 2018 and now it is time to move on. Which if they do, it will save them $8 million in cap space that can go towards another player. In 2020 the Packers owe Graham $11.6 million, however by cutting him, the dead cap hit is only $3.6 million, thus saving them the aforementioned $8 million. 

Meanwhile with Lane Taylor, he is still a capable starter and comes with a team friendly contract. But that same contract is a little too pricey to have him sitting on the bench, so trading Taylor is the best course of action. While he will likely net them a late round draft pick, moving on from Taylor will also save the Packers an additional $4.6 million in cap space. For a team that still has some needs to fill, freeing up nearly $13 million between Graham and Taylor is a no-brainer.

In total I have nine items on my to-do list, some bigger than others, but all hold an importance. Like I said above, the more of these that Gutey can checkoff, the better off this Packers team will be in 2020.  

 

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__________________________

Born and raised in Green Bay, WI and I still call it home. After my family, watching the Packers, sharing my opinions on the team through my writing and interacting with other fans is my greatest passion. You can find me on Twitter at @Paul_Bretl. 
 

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9 points
 

Comments (150)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
jeremyjjbrown's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:36 am

I would try to trade or cut Linsley as well and let Drew Patrick play Center. It would save another 8.5 million that can be used for one of those big needs.

Nothing against Linsley, just business.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:00 am

If Patrick and Linsley are my only two options, give me Patrick at those prices. But I'd really like a 3rd option that is in between those two cap numbers.

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scoonie_penn's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:00 am

I'm not a Linsley fan either but I'm not sure I'd cut him. Lucas Patrick is a decent fill-in but he's injured a lot. I think an upgrade at C later in the draft 5-7 might be warranted if someone drops. If I'm GB I try to replace Billie Turner sooner rather than later. He was very inconsistent and several teams schemed blitz and stunts at him because he was very soft at the point of attack.

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murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:03 am

Sconnie.... unfortunately, Turner’s contract has too much dead money until year 4 to make sense cutting him. Gutey did a great job hitting 3 out of 4 in FA last year. I was fearful he would only get 2 out of 4 and with the big contracts that would’ve hurt our team. We will have to live with Turner as our starter or expensive back-up for a couple more years. Fortunately Gutey drafted Jenkins as well.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:31 am

No it doesn't have too much dead money. Any time you realize a net cap savings, you can cut the guy. The savings with Turner would be only $850k so you'd have to really want him cut.

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jeremyjjbrown's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:04 am

He wasn't that bad.

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:44 am

It's essentially the argument with Nick Perry. When the Packers cut him, people complained that the Packers were paying him a lot of money to not play...but in reality (aside from the fact that the money got paid 3 years ago), they got a little cap relief for a guy they didn't want anymore.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 05:41 pm

Exactly.

I'm with Jeremy in believing he wasn't so bad to warrant cutting him after one year. But he did not impress me nearly as much as the defensive additions.

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mrtundra's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:09 am

I think Turner was the cause of much of the criticism aimed at Linsley. When defenses would try to rush through the A gaps, Turner would slide over to help Bulaga with a single guy, instead of helping Linsley inside. Linsley would get double teamed by defenders hitting those A gaps and the result would be either a loss or a sack on Rodgers, making Linsley look like the bad actor. I'm looking at the Packers drafting a OG and and OT for the right side of their O Line. If Linsley is as much at fault on the O Line, draft a C, too! Tyler Biadasz would look good in Green and Gold.

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:29 am

We have to remember that Linsley suffered a concussion early in the year and appeared on the limited practice report a few times with a bad back. We can't tell if there's a lingering issue with his back that limited his play, but back problems in OL is a real concern.

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Packers0808's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:38 pm

And who says Turner wasn't told to help Bulaga?

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flackcatcher's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:02 pm

Betcha Light was asking the same question about three weeks ago...

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4zone's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:52 pm

Biadasz could start out at RG and be your backup at C. Questiin is, you want to use your 1st Rd pick on a centr/guard instead of a WR or ILB?

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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 05:47 pm

Biadasz is sliding down the draft boards once people started going through 2019 tape. I don't grind tape on guys but the comments I've seen from people that do is he was less than impressive. Maybe NFL scouts will view him differently. That happens all the time. But if you believe the latest consensus, he's almost certain to be available in the 2nd and possibly even the 3rd.

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:56 pm

I think the Badger OL this year and last year was/is overrated in general.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:13 pm

100% agree. Last year's team was billed as 5 NFL guys. The performance never seemed to live up to that, IMO.

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Tundraboy's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:06 pm

Your right Dad!

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:11 am

For all the hammering we're doing on the OL, you'd think it was bad or something.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:33 am

Not bad. But maybe not good enough to take the next step.

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:35 am

That's always the question: is "good" good enough? I think any time you improve on a starter or depth at a position group (doubling down), there's team improvement that naturally goes with it. If there's one place where investment should return dividends, it's the OL.

With LInsley entering his contract year, there's a question of whether or not he figures into their long-term plans, too. When they drafted Jenkins, my initial thought was that he was the heir-apparent to Linsley when his contract ran out...but his play at LG makes one wonder if they want to mess with that.

Always enjoy reading your stuff, Hank.

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flackcatcher's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:32 pm

Depends on what they do with Taylor. Lot a guys with contract years coming due in that O line. I like Tuner, but he didn't hold up very well near the end of the season. It look like he had lost some weight. (Flu. I hate the flu.) I thought the Packers drafted Jenkins as a backup/future starter at center. When Taylor went down with his ripped shoulder Jenkins stepped up and played well, and got better as the season went on. Gute could cut Taylor, Lindsey, and eat Tuner's final year and not resign Buluga. Well if they want to gamble on Light and Madison the draft and free agency. Who knows? Ditto on Hank...

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Leatherhead's picture

January 23, 2020 at 02:17 pm

I'm with dobber. By any objective measure you want to use, we were one of the better lines in the league.

At footballoutsiders., we are rated the #6 run-blocking group and #10 in pass blocking. That's a good offensive line. That's good group. Ask Aaron Jones if anybody blocked for him on the way to those TDs.

PFF similarly rates GB as an above average offensive line.

Seriously, we should take a breath. Relax. Resist the urge to throw the baby out with the bath water and think all these things through a little more. Right now, we have Bakhtiari, Jenkins, Linsly, Taylor, Turner, Patrick, and Light under contract. That's 7, and we usually only have 7 or 8 active, and 9 on the 53.

Since there is no path to the Super Bowl that doesn't involve having a healthy QB, it's important that you've got solid guys you can depend on, and I think we do. Good collective injury history, experienced starters, etc. We can win with this group.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 05:56 pm

"Seriously, we should take a breath. Relax. Resist the urge to throw the baby out with the bath water and think all these things through a little more."

Is someone hyper-ventilating or otherwise having trouble breathing? I thought we were discussing how to improve the Packers for 2020 over the 2019 version. It's good to put everything on the table, no?

I definitely don't consider o-line a priority. But as Dobber noted above, it is the engine that makes the offense go. And the offense sputtered more than I'd like to see. Nothing wrong with discussing whether a tune up is in order.

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Leatherhead's picture

January 23, 2020 at 02:17 pm

I'm with dobber. By any objective measure you want to use, we were one of the better lines in the league.

At footballoutsiders., we are rated the #6 run-blocking group and #10 in pass blocking. That's a good offensive line. That's good group. Ask Aaron Jones if anybody blocked for him on the way to those TDs.

PFF similarly rates GB as an above average offensive line.

Seriously, we should take a breath. Relax. Resist the urge to throw the baby out with the bath water and think all these things through a little more. Right now, we have Bakhtiari, Jenkins, Linsly, Taylor, Turner, Patrick, and Light under contract. That's 7, and we usually only have 7 or 8 active, and 9 on the 53.

Since there is no path to the Super Bowl that doesn't involve having a healthy QB, it's important that you've got solid guys you can depend on, and I think we do. Good collective injury history, experienced starters, etc. We can win with this group.

3 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:45 pm

OT should be their #one pick, unless Jefferson or Tee Higgins drops.

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zoellner25's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:17 am

Lucas Patrick? come on man. you don't even know our players

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:04 pm

I liked him best when he was in The Lost Boys.

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Razer's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:48 am

Good list Paul.

Resign Bulaga and Crosby - absolutely, unless Bulaga wants too much then look at the big Dutchman we got out of retirement.

WR - 2 guys is enough a quick twitch slot man and a speed guy

TE - No more TEs. We had too many and we didn't know what to do with them. Get rid of Graham, resign Lewis and get Tonyan and Sternberger more reps.

Kenny Clark YES and a stud from the draft and a stud FA

CB - you can never have enough. Concentrate on working the young talent into the rotation. I like Tramon as a mentor in that group.

Lineback - ABSOLUTE need for this defense.

So from the draft we need solid picks at WR, LB, DL and maybe OL

Quite the shopping list for a 13-3 team!

8 points
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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:05 am

"TE - No more TEs. We had too many and we didn't know what to do with them. Get rid of Graham, resign Lewis and get Tonyan and Sternberger more reps."

Tonyan is a slow UDFA who has done very little in two years. He has done nothing to warrant so much as a roster spot, much less an expanded role to my eyes.

He's young enough to still improve. So he's worth keeping on the 90. But they should force him to improve if he wants to stay on the 53 by providing a credible challenge

6 points
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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:11 am

Agreed. Tonyan isn't much of a blocker and aside from a long TD late last season hasn't done much to stand out. It could be that if they force-feed him reps he might respond, but I'd rather look for a guy with higher upside.

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murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:12 am

Hank, I agree. We need more TE talent and need to draft there in hope of hitting a great one. Look at KC and SF they have the two best TE’s in the biz today and Kittle was a 5th and kelce 3rd rounder. Both of those players are instrumental in their offense’s. Maybe steinberger will turn out great but that position in MLF O is very important so I’d draft another in round 3-5.

4 points
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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:38 am

Excellent point on Kelce and Kittle. And before that, look at Gronk. You can make a credible argument that his absence is killing the Pats offense.

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Leatherhead's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:03 pm

You could make that argument, but somebody might point out that New England finished 7th in the league in scoring with 420 points. So it wasn't killed that bad.

The previous year they had 436 points and finished 4th. So it killed their offense by one point per game. So that's the difference Gronk, and his millions, made. And I think Gronk is awesome and would be the best TE on the Packers, easily. It's a commentary on the value of the position.

I'm an Ed West guy. A guy who always shows up, never gets hurt, blocks his guy, and catches a pass or two . I think it's entirely possible to win without a super-duper TE.

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CAG123's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:54 pm

I think they had like 3-4 defensive TDs though so that puts them below 400 points

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:54 am

Remember that Travis Kelce was suspended for a year in college for violating team rules. When was the last time you heard of a major conference college coach suspending a player for a year? Had a really good senior year, but that kind of red flag had to make a difference. Certainly the Chiefs have been willing to speculate on players with checkered pasts.

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Jonathan Spader's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:49 pm

Do the Chiefs or did Dorsey? I think that was more of a reflection on Dorsey who has drafted some amazing talent.

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fordguy's picture

January 23, 2020 at 12:31 pm

Not sure how you're coming up with Tonyan is slow, Tonyan ran the 40 in 4.58, Kittle ran a 4.52 and Travis Kelce ran a 4.63. Not much of a difference to be saying he's slow.

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:06 pm

Tonyan ran a 4.58 at under 220 lbs. He's in the 240s now.

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Leatherhead's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:41 pm

Can he get his guy blocked? On a running team, that’s a more important quality. Or should we pass more and run less?

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KeepErMovin's picture

January 24, 2020 at 02:27 pm

Passing more is the right move. (its more efficient) That being said, I like the balance they had this year.

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mrtundra's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:13 am

TE - No more TEs. We had too many and we didn't know what to do with them. Get rid of Graham, resign Lewis and get Tonyan and Sternberger more reps.

I agree with this, completely! Marcedes Lewis was under rated as a TE in GB. We need Sternberger and Tonyan to get more reps, absolutely!

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murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:12 am

I thought tonyan had potential but after watching him this year I don’t see anything special as a receiver and he is below average as a blocker. I think the Pack give him a chance next year but if they bring others in which I suspect they will thru FA or draft he won’t make the cut.

4 points
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stockholder's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:50 am

Pettine is back. The defense won't change if we don't clean House. Sign Bulaga? Not Me. - 10 mil. for a guy that plays Possum? Go ask anyone other then a packer fan about Bulaga. You value him to high. Crosby- One last chance. Yea ok. And yes I agree with the rest of the numbers/ moves. I think Gute stands on what he has. He could of brought in a WR and DT during the season and passed. Which will bring us to his draft. Yes he needs a Ilb./ DT. The Best are not going to fall. But this draft is about Offense. The best in years. If Gute does not pay defense, he will hurt are chances to stay on top.

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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:13 am

I think BGs in-season moves were limited by his desire to carry over cap money into the offseason. I would also have liked to have seen him be a little more active at the deadline.

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Packers0808's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:42 pm

I guess we need YOU in Bulagas tackle spot talking about possums.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:54 am

Offense is a greater need than defense. We saw them get pounded into submission last week so they need to get their run defense in a better place than today. But passing offense was a problem almost every week. Bottom line is I think they have less ability to win when the defense plays poorly than the other way around.

For the pass catches, I'd look to the draft. There will be a familiarity curve with vets or rooks alike so I want to dip into the deep and talented rookie pools that colleges are churning out like butter. They don't even need to jump in round 1 to get a good one. TE is a wild card. The position sucked so badly I don't know what ML really wants. Does he want a young and talented version of Jimmy Graham (such as Brycen Hopkins)? Or two guys that can block and catch? Sternberger should be one. Trying to milk another year out of Lewis is fine. But they need another one.

I'm not convinced the o-line as presently constructed is good enough to advance beyond where they did. If they do go with an older RT (like Bulaga), they need a viable fall back (like Veldheer). My bigger concern is Linsley and Turner. Both can be part of a good o-line. But I want better than good.

For the d-line, One vet and one rook, please. I want to push Tyler Lancaster into a fight for a roster spot. If the competition is strong and he wins it, fine by me. I also want to get Clark playing fewer snaps. I think he'll be more effective overall. The good news is that the new guys don't need to be able to rush the passer, just consume blocks. That's easier to find.

At LB--Speed and more speed. I don't know if there is that kind of player in FA. So they might need to go with a couple of rooks--one before day 3 begins and another on day 3. This is harder to find. Martinez and Goodson are low ceiling option that don't bring much on their own. Whatever they get is based on the DL keeping them clean. I'd let both go. That's playing without a net, I know. But neither are much of a net anyways.

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jannes bjornson's picture

January 24, 2020 at 02:20 pm

The top pick WR s bring Game right away. When you rely on projects, you get headaches that drop balls, cannot run routes and don't have the burst to get open fast. No issues with Hollywood, Deebo, AJ Brown, Metcalf, Hockenson, Fant and Herndon making plays for their teams. I would push Lancaster to the xfl or at best backup NT.
Lowry didn't show from day one of the contract extension. More to ruminate over regarding the Ted to Gutedkunst
transition. Lindsley may have been playing hurt, all year?? The film doesn't lie, though with he and Turner being played way too much in the middle. Turner's job should also be on the line. Rodgers has to be protected to the max if LaFleur wants to keep him in the pocket all day. The Goal is to Improve, not float in stasis with the Fans.

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RCPackerFan's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:18 am

My wishlist is:

Priority 1 - before free agency
-Resign Bulaga and Crosby. Resigning these 2 guys before free agency starts should be top priority.

Some others that I wouldn't mind seeing them resign as they should be pretty cheap.
-Williams
-Lewis
-Campbell
-Ervin

If the price is right I would like to resign Veldheer also.

Priority 2 - free agency

This is where I think they need to find some key players. They won't likely go out and bring in 4 guys like last year. But they could go out and get a better player as well as some key role players.

I think in FA they should look at getting a WR, DL, ILB. Maybe a TE depending on what happens with Lewis/Graham.

Priority 3 - Draft

This is where they need to find the key players for the future.
Right now we know the WR class is very strong. I would like to see them come away with 2 WR's out of this class. If they can add a speedy ILB who can bring some pop that would be a nice addition.

Review of what I think they need to do this offseason.
I think they have to find a way to resign Bulaga and Crosby. Hopefully they can resign a few others cheap too.
Then once Free Agency starts I hope they can bring in a few key players to take this team over the top. Maybe add a good DL and WR. If they can add 2-4 players in free agency to fill key roles that should help them get over the top. And then in the draft I hope they add a couple of WRs just because this class is very strong.

6 points
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murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:55 am

RC I like your thoughts. I’d add that an ILB is as much about instinct and acceleration as it is speed. Burks has showed us speed isn’t everything. Hopefully in year 3 he shows us he isn’t just a ST player! Of course you would like to have all 3 but you have to be in the top 10 pick in draft to get those qualities. I’m not sold on Campell. We need to shore up DL most importantly thou. If you can’t get above average at both MLB and DL this year, A great line will make up for average at Mlb more so then the other way around.

WR is my number 2 priority. I’d like to see DL as the first pick and WR as the 2nd pick in the draft. Then OL, TE or WR again as the 3rd. We need to give Aaron weapons. As Ron Wolf stated his biggest regret was not getting Favre more weapons.

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RCPackerFan's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:35 am

Thanks,
I completely agree about instincts for ILB. Its why Martinez is a good player. His instincts get him in position to make a lot of tackles.
I think the problem with Burks has been the injuries he has suffered early in each of his first 2 years. Hopefully he can remain healthy and maybe then he will take a step. But I think we need to prepare for him being a special teams player only. And if he can end up starting or being a really good ILB, that is a bonus.
Campbell came off a torn acl. I would like to see what he could do with another year removed, and a full off season with the team.

I do agree that we need to upgrade the DL. Clark is great. But he need someone next to him, or a couple of guys.

I think they have 3 true needs. 3 positions they absolutely have to upgrade this off season. WR, DL and ILB.
ILB might be the highest priority if they let Martinez go. I don't think Goodson will be back and regardless they have to upgrade over him.
They have to add a talented DL that can stop the run and be effective rushing the QB. Those are hard to find.
WR they absolutely have to find 2-3 guys. They essentially have Adams as the only truly proven guy. Lazard will be on the roster. He has proved to be a good top 4 WR. Other then that who do you trust? I still have hopes for MVS, but I don't want to count on him. EQ I like but again I don't want to rely on him. Allison will hopefully be gone. Kumerow is a good special teams player and a good blocker but he should be our 5/6th WR. We really need an upgrade at least 2 spots. I would like to see them get a WR in FA and then draft at least 2 guys. One of those guys I hope can add a gadgety skill that can be used on jet sweeps and more 'trick' types of plays. Ervin really added something to the offense when he was able to provide that. If they can add another guy like that, it really elevates the offense.

TE is a position I hope they bring someone else in. Sternberger I think can be really good, but he missed a lot of time this year. I dont' want to solely rely on him. Perhaps they look towards FA for a guy?
They do need more weapons on offense!

0 points
1
1
murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:17 am

I agree with the WR’s we need to bring in a vet and draft 1 or 2. Unfortunately, this year an exception, many times WR’s take a year or two to develop. If we take wide receiver in the first round I wouldn’t waste another draft pick and fill in our D line, Oline, TE and middle linebacker. A lot of holes to fill, but there always is.

0 points
0
0
murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:28 am

Martinez has the instincts but lacks the high level acceleration and speed to be in the upper echelon. I hate to say it, and I like Martinez, but if he wants 10+ long term contract I’d pass and take another Mlb in FA. That said it totally depends on who is available and that they can sign. If you can only build your Dline or MLB this year I’d take the DL.

0 points
0
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Lare's picture

January 23, 2020 at 12:51 pm

It'll be interesting to see what Martinez is looking for in his next contract. If reasonable, I wouldn't be opposed to keeping him as a complementary player if they could bring in a true ILB thumper.

Martinez stays relatively healthy and his numbers show he can tackle, something that is sorely lacking on this defense.

-1 points
0
1
murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 02:56 pm

Lare, I don't think a thumper is what is needed. I think if you shore up the DL and get speed in the MLB position with Martinez you have what it will take to solidify the middle.

0 points
0
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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:03 pm

You get thumpers two ways...with mass or with speed. Some of the bigger-hitting LB in the league are under 240. They just get to the spot with momentum.

2 points
2
0
Bearmeat's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:10 am

I would let Bulaga walk if he commands top dollar as a RT - and he will. The RT market has exploded the past 5 years. I'd draft one before round 4, and resign Veldheer for cheap.

I think priority 2 needs to be a free agent WR who can contribute right away. Then also a day 1/2 pick of a WR.

Priority 3 needs to be DL. Lowry's deal is not looking like a good deal for GB right now... we need at least 2 more average run stuffing DL to keep the ILB's clean.

Priority 4 is ILB. I'm still not on the boat that it's a premier position. I don't want to pay for one, and unless you're getting a STUD, I don't want one in the 1st round either. Let Blake walk. IF the DL keeps IL clean, we can do with good safety play (which we will have) and mediocre ILB play.

0 points
0
0
RCPackerFan's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:51 am

I don't know if Bulaga will command top dollar. But they may have decided to let him go and move Turner to RT? And resign Veldheer to an affordable deal.

Completely agree about WR. they have to upgrade the position. Basically since Adams, they have drafted Moore as a 4th round pick. He has been the highest pick since Adams at WR. They need to upgrade it!

Lowry is a good player, not a great one. It would be nice if they could go out and bring in a guy like Lawrence Guy or Mike Pennel. Those guys have had long careers and have developed really nice niche's in the league.

I disagree with the ILB. I'm not saying go spend top dollar for one, but they have to upgrade the position, especially if Martinez leaves. If they can get a stud in the first round, do it. They need someone that can go sideline to sideline and can cover and hit. Those guys aren't easy to find.
One of the weaknesses has been our ILB position. Now Martinez was good, but the other ILB spot has been really bad. One area that our defense could really improve is ILB.

1 points
1
0
Bearmeat's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:08 pm

But who are you going to get at ILB? One who can hit, fill the run, cover TEs/slot WRs and RBs... those guys get Kuechly money. Or more. And they're almost never available. You could throw 15m AAV at someone who is slightly better than Martinez but not going to transform the defense.

Either draft one in round 1 - and if you do that, you'd better have OT and WR figured out before the draft. OR make getting better at the LOS (DE) a priority. Do that cheaper, with multiple space eaters. And let an average ILB roam.

Remember how good AJ Hawk looked in 2010? That was solely because Raji/Jenkins/Pickett and Howard Green were keeping him 100% clean.

2 points
2
0
murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:00 pm

Bearmeat….I've been preaching that. You aren't going to solve all issues this year, even on D. If you have a great DL and that's where you concentrate in the draft and FA, then Martinez and/or other's maybe even with Burks will be able to make plays without having blockers taking them out of the plays.

-1 points
0
1
dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:09 pm

Given how little proven depth they have at ILB on the roster (it's essentially none), I find myself wondering if the Packers think that Burks can play in Martinez's spot (as opposed to more of a hybrid/passing down specialist)?

0 points
1
1
Bearmeat's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:29 pm

Burks sucks. We were subpar at ILB all year and he couldn't get on the field in year 2, despite Gute trading up for him as a R3 pick.

It's very close to bust territory at this point.

1 points
1
0
dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 02:35 pm

It's OK, Bear. Don't candy-coat it for us...let us know what you really think! ;)

1 points
1
0
Johnblood27's picture

January 23, 2020 at 05:29 pm

Lowry is a good player, not a great one. It would be nice if they could go out and bring in a guy like Lawrence Guy or Mike Pennel.

Pack already had these guys and let them walk.

Hmmmmmmmm...

0 points
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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:08 pm

Lawrence Guy got waived or cut by the Packers, Chargers and Colts before the first inkling that he might be decent with Baltimore. Then he had a down year and ended up in NE. The Packers weren't the only ones to miss on Guy.

0 points
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Sureshot's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:39 am

Draft one good WR

Get a good defensive tackle to help run defense.

Find some speed at ILB

2 points
2
0
stockholder's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:42 am

Jalen Reagor WR rd1, Jefferson, Wr Rd 2, Harrison ILB Rd 3,

-1 points
2
3
HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:45 pm

I like Jalen Reagor. I saw a recent mock with him at 30 and Patrick Queen at 62. I wish there was a way to lock that in. I'd be thrilled.

1 points
1
0
joeblowinski's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:58 am

This won't be a popular view, but I think it's time to look at Rodgers tape over the last three years and come to grips with his obvious decline. He's reverting to what was normal before Brady, Brees, etc. got us all thinking that playing effectively into one's 40s was normal. Nope. Usually QBs started falling off their games in the mid thirties which is apparently true of Rodgers now. He looks increasingly washed up to me compared to say 2012 when he was the Aaron Rodgers many still think he is. He's on the positive side of "decent qb" these days, but his glory days are behind him. We've got to stop denying this.

While the league still thinks Rodgers is as good as ever, offer the Bengals Rodgers and our 1st round draft choice for the 1st pick of the draft. Burrows working with LaFluer secures our next ten years barring injury. Or we can keep Rodgers and hope for more smoke and mirrors seasons like this one. But a Super Bowl with Rodgers? Don't think so.

1 points
5
4
SterlingSharpe's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:04 am

I actually 100% agree with you on Rodgers. And I have said the same things. In fact, I have written it.... but his contract is brutal and we take a gigantic cap hit if we trade him. I don't know exacts as the economic #s always slip my mind. But it's huge.

BUT my question to the economic capologist geniuses is can't he sign a different contract and rip up that one? If he would want to be dealt to the Los Angeles Chargers as I think he might. He loves SoCal, and that team just kicked our azzes so it's not like they're bad.

0 points
2
2
dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:29 am

We have to accept the fact that the Packers' wagon is hitched to ARod for at least a couple more years. Any move in the short term all but requires the Packers to tear it all down to the foundation and rebuild from scratch. That's clearly not the plan.

As for the contract: the problem is bonus money and guarantees. The signing bonus has already been paid, but it's distributed over the lifetime of the contract. That's where the dead money comes from. The Packers and ARod can quibble over his annual salary figures (which, unless stipulated, is not guaranteed), but the bonus money hit to the cap can't go away. Given that the Packers and ARod just converted some of his contract into bonus money, there's no plan to let him go any time soon.

2 points
3
1
Leatherhead's picture

January 23, 2020 at 02:38 pm

We have to accept the fact that Rodgers is the guy for next year. He could be the MVP next year, or he could break something and be on IR, and that would affect what we do in 2021. But for 2020, he's the guy.

I disagree that you'd have to tear down the foundation and rebuild from scratch. If we had a capable replacement, I think we could reload pretty fast. Put a rookie QB in an offense behind a good line and hand the ball off a lot, with a good defense, and I think we'd be competitive pretty soon. Kind of like Baltiimore, and KC, and Buffalo, who all switched from established QBs in favor of a youngster.

I don't think people understand dead money. It's money you already spent and can't get back. It's credit card debt. It's cap space that's not available. So you try to avoid dead money as much as you can but sometimes it's the better choice for one reason or another.

Arod's contract, according to spotrac.com, is going to involve a $21 million cap hit this year. His salary is only about $1.5 million this year, but goes to $14 million next year. It's that massive signing bonus that makes the difference. In 2021, his cap hit is $36 million, and $31 million of that is signing bonus, so we save $5 million if we release him after the 2020 season. Assuming he isn't permanently broken, that's probably a good deal. He'd turn 38 towards the end of the season.

After the 2021 system, the realities change. He has an "out" in the contract. If we kept him, he'd be making $25 million and we're still pro-rating his signing bonus at $11 million. Add in some bonuses and he's a $40 million cap hit

But that means that we need a guy who could start at QB after two years on the bench. Assuming we drafted him this year.

1 points
1
0
Doug_In_Sandpoint's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:52 am

Make up for the Hadl trade?

2 points
2
0
packerbackerjim's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:23 pm

That trade was even worse than the Herschel trade. Thanks for the memories.

0 points
0
0
jeremyjjbrown's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:57 pm

"BUT my question to the economic capologist geniuses is can't he sign a different contract and rip up that one?"

No, He already got paid his signing bonus. Prorating it over the life of the contract is an accounting procedure. There is no way to unpay it.

3 points
3
0
murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:18 am

What makes you think Cincinnati would take that deal? They are rebuilding and with Rodgers it’s a win now mode! With the right weapons and a very good D Rodgers can win another SB. Yes, he isn’t the Rodgers of old, but he still reads D at a very high level and can make awesome throws. Get him the weapons and my money is on Rodgers.

6 points
6
0
fastmoving's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:14 am

Hmmmm, thats the Problem, he has more weapons than most other QBs. He just does not throw to them. and they were open a lot. this year, last year.
But if you not one of his Buddys, like Adams, you wont get any good targets. Trust issues, whatever that means like no other QB.
Brady and the other top passer do way more with way less………...

-5 points
2
7
murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:22 am

Are you kidding me, what weapons outside of Adams and Jones?? Brady also struggled this year with only one good WR and a lack of talent at TE. I would argue that the packers and patriots we’re in the bottom five of wide receivers and tightend talent.

3 points
3
0
Tundraboy's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:43 pm

And you would be right.

0 points
0
0
Demon's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:52 pm

Fastmoving you sir, get the dumbass statement of the day. Youre on a roll thats twice this week. Post that same post tomorrow and try for 3?

3 points
3
0
jlc1's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:52 pm

Not only is he dumb in the talent evaluation he's dumb in what actually happens. 12 completed passes to 10 different receivers against SF - how is that read as only looking for his two guys?

0 points
0
0
HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:30 am

Plenty of people have said it is time to move on Rodgers. None have responded when asked about the $45 mil cap hit to trade him. Cutting Graham, Linsley and Taylor might do the trick. But you might have to add in Bahktiari or Adams given you're now taking on the cap hit of the #1 overall pick--which ain't cheap like a guy drafted outside the top 15.

The other way that falls down is that the Bengals would never accept a QB that is in decline for one that could set them up for a decade or more. You'd have to give up more then #30 overall. I suppose since you have to cut Bahk or Adams, throwing them in to sweeten the pot might do the trick. But I doubt it.

The 4-12 season would produce a high draft pick with plenty of cap room for 2021, tho.

4 points
4
0
PeteK's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:08 am

Ridiculous, I'll admit that he was inconsistent at times probably bc of a new offense and a need for more quality receivers, but he made many great throws and is still athletic enough to escape trouble.

3 points
3
0
dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:00 am

I would argue that with the exception of about 35 minutes of the Detroit game, we were starting to see his accuracy pick up and a wilingness to play within the scheme more down the stretch. His deep ball accuracy looked better in the playoffs and he dropped some real dimes in tough spots.

7 points
7
0
Coldworld's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:44 pm

I think people overlook the scheme changes eroding the ability to improvise coupled with inexperienced, limited or just poor catchers other than Adams. Not the scenario likely to exploit Rodgers’dkills to the best extent

3 points
3
0
Coldworld's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:44 pm

I think people overlook the scheme changes eroding the ability to improvise coupled with inexperienced, limited or just poor catchers other than Adams. Not the scenario likely to exploit Rodgers’dkills to the best extent

0 points
0
0
HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:03 pm

So I'm not the only one that noticed an uptick in Rodgers at the end. He was lights out vs Seattle. He wasn't lights out vs SF but I thought he played a whole lot better than many seemed to think, given the postgame comments here.

Wasn't that bad stretch vs Detroit the game where they went all mad bomber, chucking everything deep? Certainly he takes a hit for not completing some of those. But I thought that was the plan, not him going rogue, and it was a bad plan.

1 points
1
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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:15 pm

He played a really nice game at Minnesota, too.

3 points
3
0
SterlingSharpe's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:02 am

Draft 1 good WR, and they can be found on day-2 of this draft, just as when the Packers landed:
Jordy Nelson
Davante Adams
Greg Jennings
Robert Brooks
James Jones
Antonio Freeman

Sign 1, or 2, veteran FA WRs as Rodgers won't use rookies anyway. AJ Brown & Hollywood Brown would have been wasted this year had we gotten them.

Candidates All are 27 or younger):
-Breshad Perriman
-Phillip Dorsett
^ both of those guys have 4.25 speed ^

-Nelson Agholar (has had bad drops, but the guy gets open & he's a good dude, would have chemistry with Arod)
-Laquon Treadwell (I loved taking Gilbert Brown from the Vikings PS... how cool would it be for us to get the good stuff that made Treadwell a 1st rd pick!)

Where is Josh Doctson at these days? I saw him with my own eyes here at TCU and he was a stud. A no-brainer 1st rd pick for the Redskins. If he hasn't had any debilitating injuries, he's worth a look too, clearly has more talent than any of our WRs behind Adams.

1 points
3
2
HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:56 am

Perriman is an intriguing name to me. But I don't think it is much about rookies as it is about familiarity with Rodgers. He won't have that with Perriman right away either. I'm not sure it is just Rodgers either. Look at Sanu and Emanuel. Both were midseason acquisitions that did not live up to production expectations.

Having said that, I would not mind giving Perriman a shot. Along with a rookie.

1 points
1
0
mrtundra's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:18 am

-Laquon Treadwell (I loved taking Gilbert Brown from the Vikings PS... how cool would it be for us to get the good stuff that made Treadwell a 1st rd pick!)

Sorry, I would not want Treadwell, ever. I would never want the taint of viking failure on this team. We are moving forward. We do not want to go backwards, from here on out.

1 points
2
1
CAG123's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:42 am

They already have receivers with drop issues and you want them to bring another one in? No thanks and then you want to bring in another first round bust in hopes of sticking it to the Vikings? Your motives are a bit petty Mr.Sharpe lol

1 points
1
0
stockholder's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:51 am

Sign 1, or 2, veteran FA WRs as Rodgers won't use rookies anyway.=== Veterans will hurt the cap, and take away from adding to the defense. If you want a good Wr. // Rd. 1.
Look at the problem with TEs. I cannot stress the importance of getting good speed with a catch radius. Either Gute signs defense or he drafts it. #30 is to far out for a starting DT. But not for a starting ILB. Murray should be gone also. So Wr is your best game changer at #30. And Gute needs the picks in this deep offensive draft. Especially if he wants to change Wrs. position in GB. His other 3 Wrs drafted all failed now. So the sooner he drafts them, the better the Talent.

0 points
0
0
EnemyTerritory's picture

January 23, 2020 at 12:50 pm

Treadwell is no improvement over Allison or any of the other should replace WR. A high draft slot does not translate to on field success and with Treadwell it never did. Nothing to suggest a change to GB would help.

1 points
1
0
NMpackerfan13's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:06 am

I'd cut Billy Turner for sure, 7 million for him is way to high for the way he is playing, either get his deal restructured or move on. Bulaga is injury prone but when he is in the game he is solid, hes not worth 10 mil a year IMO. Cut jimmy Graham and lane taylor, sign hunter Henry or Austin Hooper (both would provide a weapon for Rodgers now that we're in a win now mode), get Kenny some help, Dean isn't cutting it and Tyler isnt as well. They need to change their defensive scheme after that horrendous game against the 9ers. If arik armstrad doesn't resign with the 9ers that would be a huge pick up only thing is he's going to be expensive. Draft a good wide receiver, laviska shenault is a stud that would compliment Davante very well, his stock fell because of an injury. If all these things happens Aaron has one of the deadliest with Henry or Hooper at tight end, Davante Adams, Laviska Shenault, Allen lazard at wide receiver, Aaron jones at rb, that's a scary offense. They could look into drafting a guard or tackle to replace bulaga or turner if they don't return preferably a guard with them cutting turner.

0 points
3
3
CAG123's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:49 am

Armstrad was teetering on bust status before this year and I think we learned our lesson from the “break out season just before FA” thing he seems more of a product of Salah’s scheme than anything he’ll go somewhere else and disappoint besides he’s a 4-3 end.

3 points
3
0
OldPacker's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:12 am

Rookie WR are not going to change anything except wait for them to develop..the clock is ticking ... bring in a # 2

-1 points
1
2
murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:26 am

I’d disagree, look at last years draft and check the stats of Metcalf, Samuel, A. Brown, M. Brown, McLaurin just to name a few that did very good in the first year.

3 points
3
0
dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:32 am

Agreed. The better college WRs are coming out much better prepared to contribute right away. I think it's still true that many are slow to develop, but there are a few guys every year who step in and are difference-makers right away.

2 points
2
0
Demon's picture

January 24, 2020 at 10:19 am

I agree with you dobber. But lets face it, the packers dont have much of a history of picking NFL ready rookies.

For every E Jenkins there are several R Gary, and Datone Jones types.

0 points
0
0
RCPackerFan's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:40 am

Completely agree!

Also, if you already have Adams, Jones, and add another 1-2 players that rookie doesn't have to come in and be a star. They need to be able to fill a role.

And lets be honest. A rookie can come in and already be better then what Allison was this year.

3 points
3
0
Sureshot's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:07 am

ESB could come back from IR and be already better than what Allison was this year

But I'm OK to draft a good WR in this deep class

2 points
2
0
RCPackerFan's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:22 am

I do agree with you.

Though I'm at the point I don't want to rely on players that have flashed talent but haven't proven their talent.
Like MVS for example. He has skills. But it hasn't clicked for him yet. I think he could explode and do really well. But I don't want to rely on that he might do it. I want to go out and bring in more talent, so that we aren't relying on him to be the guy and then end up not being that guy. Get more players and if they become the guy, that just makes us even better.

Draft 2 WR's, bring in a FA and let their play in training camp sort it all out!

0 points
0
0
murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:12 pm

RC...
Randall cobb 25-375-1
Jordy Nelson 33-366-2
Devante Adams 38-446-3 Playoff game 8-124-1

I think that production would help and you might even find a diamond in the rough in this years draft that does even better in year 1. The draft is loaded with quality WR's. Certainly, the five or so from last years draft I posted above had I believe better 1st year numbers. Add a Vet who can put up 50-60 catches and 5 td's and you are on your way to a much better WR group. As a bonus, if one of the current roster players takes a major jump IE: Lazards, MVS, etc... even better group.

0 points
0
0
Tundraboy's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:04 pm

We need a star.

0 points
0
0
SterlingSharpe's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:20 am

Rodgers doesn't trust rookies.

AJ & Hollywood Brown wouldn't have done anything on this team with Rodgers at QB.
He doesn't trust the young WRs.

Kumerow isn't young, but as I saw on All-22 film breakdown, there would be guys like Kumerow WIDE OPEN but Rodgers was set on getting the ball to Adams or Graham on the particular play no matter what, and he didn't see the field, see the wide-open guys. It happened a lot.

0 points
3
3
Jonathan Spader's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:30 pm

The rookies were a 5th, 6th, and 7th rounder b3caise they were all RAW super high RAS guys. Rodgers didn't trust them because they couldn't run a route tree and were out of position. Same with Janis his entire career. If a rookie is a polished route runner the story would be different. Polished route runners with a high RAS get drafted in rounds 1 and 2 unless they drop due to injury and or character concerns.

2 points
2
0
jlc1's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:47 pm

He completed passes to 10 different receivers against SF. Read the passing chronicles, bone up on how ARod, in decline for sure, is still a quality QB.

0 points
0
0
Handsback's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:23 am

Dline guys usually take a year or two to develop, (unless you get one of the top three in the draft) so drafting one doesn't solve the immediate issue. Need a strong DE through FA, and should draft one as well to develop.-Priority one

Sign Bulaga. You don't have an immediate replacement, again you need to target one in the draft. Might add that Bak's performance this year slipped so adding two OT in the draft not a bad idea.-Priority two

Martinez is a tackling machine, but not a difference maker. In a 3-4 all LBs are the stars (both ILB/OLB) Martinez is good and will get better, but you can't pay everyone so replace with another FA and draft a run and chase guy. Problem going forward...if you get too light on the ILB position, a team will run you to death (we just saw that happen) so having a run stopper as one of those guys isn't a bad idea.- Priority three

WR/TE are lumped together as playmakers. Graham is too old and expensive. He gets cut and the Packers try to get an experience TE guy through FA if not move on and draft one or two. Ditto for WR, I just don't think cheap, good alternatives are out there. Would you want Antonio Brown? Definitely need to draft a quick slot type and boundary receiver.-Priority four

I haven't recorded any games this year, but jeremyjbrown has suggested to cut Linsley. I don't know if his play suffered this year or not, but it's not the first time I've seen him being cut. So, can't comment other then to say the coaches will make those decisions. based on game videos.

Hate to say it but fixing the roster is going to take another year. I don't think they have the CAP to do everything again. Not sure how rookies will develop, or that second year jump. Green Bay has enough play makers, they just have to work through who they have verses wishing for a WR/TE corp that is the best in the league. It existed at one time, but it only brought home one title at the expense of fixing the defense.

3 points
4
1
jeremyjjbrown's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:19 am

For the record I don't think Linsley played poorly, fumble against the 49ers taken into account.

I just don't think he's worth 10.5 million is the Packers think Patrick can continue to play as he has. Linsley likely has trade value as well.

8.5 million cap, and a 4-5 rounder and Drew Patrick sounds decent to me.

1 points
1
0
Houndog's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:42 am

I think the middle of the D is the most important of the Packers' needs. Yes, I know, WR stands out as a need as well and the Packers need to address that, but defense travels, and defense wins championships.
Much of this will be determined by Gutekunst's plan, win now, or build for the future? We'll soon see.
From what I read the draft is filled with WRs, so that's a good thing as it can be addressed in R2, Nelson, Cobb, and Adams were all 2nd round picks. Also, Begelton will be there and St. Brown will be back to hopefully add some help, but I know that's a 'wait and see'. One for the 'thumbs-down' crowd is; Cobb was on a one-year contract with the Cowboys and had a good year, is he staying there and if not, what's his price? It's safe to say we missed him this year.
As for FAs, Crosby is an absolute no brainer, and I'd like to see Bulaga back if his price isn't crazy. Graham and Taylor can go. Lewis is a good veteran presence, a good blocker, and the young guys need to step up. Jared Cook is back on the market, again dependent on Gutey's plan, just sayin'.
One thing for certain is this will be an off-season we'll all be watching closely, and one that could possibly play a part in writing Rodgers' place in history.

0 points
0
0
Rebecca's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:43 am

So a few stitches here, a patch there, and all will be well in Cheeseyland again. To do list looks like what MondayMorning Coach Obvious has been saying since Sunday's crushing defeat. None of this is going to change the fact that Rodgers has issues that no one can figure out. At least 2 more years of rebuilding, and then Rodgers will move on. No more Super Bowls with Rodgers and the mediocre talent and coaching on this team.

-7 points
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Houndog's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:11 am

Thanks Rebecca, how are things in Minneapolis this morning?

2 points
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1
Rebecca's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:45 pm

Nice try but let's stick to Packers football. Has Aaron Rodgers been a consistent leader since the last Super Bowl win which was in 2011? Clearly not. When you see him with his stank face sulking on the bench, do you see a leader like Tom Brady, or Drew Brees, or even Phil Rivers? I don't. So now we've got a team that is highly successful again with a 14-4 record, second in the NFC, etc. but stuck with the bottom of the round draft position for this spring. Sorry, that ain't gonna cut it, and still have needs at Oline, Dline,Linebackers,Wide Receiver, Tight End, and QB. Money's tight and the Vikings, Bears and Lions aren't going to lie down and roll over and let us dominate again next year.

-1 points
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stockholder's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:43 pm

After the Brett Favre mess. Arron Rodgers is your QB. Good or Bad. With Pettine coming back. The packers will be in denial. They now will use TTs philosophy that their better then anybody in the league. Gute's gone through two drafts. He takes the athlete that test best. Forget the trading. The bottom line is they can't afford anybody else. Gute Wins! The record speaks for itself and if your a packer fan. Don't Worry Be Happy!

-2 points
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PeteK's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:20 am

I'm not about to throw my hands up in the air and give up after a 14-4 season with some decent cap space. 29 teams would love to be in our position.

4 points
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HankScorpio's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:26 am

Nobody is talking about minor cosmetic changes.

As for the "mystery" that nobody can figure out about Rodgers, well, it doesn't exist. Even you figured it out without being able to connect you did. He's not good enough to paper over mediocre talent. That's why the changes need to be more than cosmetic.

1 points
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PeteK's picture

January 23, 2020 at 08:50 am

I wouldn't sign Williams for more than 2 mill , and would let Allison go. This would save another 6 mill. A young receiver might take some time to mesh, but a veteran TE like Hooper that can catch and block will be an instant upgrade. Lancaster is a NG that can spell Clark, so we need a good DE, Hargrave or T J Reader would fill that need.

1 points
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Dragon5's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:10 am

Gute did well with the Savage & Jenkins picks, but he blew his chance to remedy TE in the draft last year. I was banging the table for Moreau with either of our 4th rd picks (original post below), who graded as 2019's top rookie TE https://raiderswire.usatoday.com/2020/01/17/raiders-te-foster-moreau-gra... I wasn't as high on McLaurin, but he and Winovich were picked immediately after Sternberger. To say Gary is a bust is far too early--metaphysical energy is excellent for him, Savage, and Alexander next year (all OX) but Gute sure wasted draft capital by not trading down from 12 to get him.

Dragon5 March 18, 2019 at 11:26 pm
Gronk's stats are on the left...my TE pick's stats next to Gronk's, a 1 Life Path and Taurus just like Gronk as well. Stud blocker already, coach up the receiving intangibles (hands / footwork / release / routes etc) and you've got your Pro Bowl TE for the next decade for only a 4th round pick and we currently have two of those. Walter Football has him ranked as the #16 TE...fine by me...who doesn't love a deep discount!?!?Measurable
Height 6' 6" 6'6"
Weight 258 lbs 253lbs
Arm Length 34¼" 33½"
Hand Size 10¾" 9⅝"
40 Yard Dash 4.68s 4.66s
Vertical Jump 33½" 36½"
Broad Jump 119" 121"
3-Cone Drill 7.18s 7.16s
20 Yard Shuttle 4.47s 4.11s
Bench Press 23 reps 22reps

-1 points
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PeteK's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:30 am

That's great, I also love those low round gems, but 2019 draft is over, now find us a TE in year 2020 draft.

3 points
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stockholder's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:36 am

My TE pick is OKwuegbunam. He was injured and should drop. He is the only TE I would take.

0 points
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Dragon5's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:55 am

I expected EQ to push Allison for #2 last year, but that was quickly foiled with preseason injury. Amendola will be 35 in November, but he would come cheap for a 1 year WR stop-gap and has won 2 of 3 Super Bowls...a guy Rodgers can trust.

0 points
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Timeout's picture

January 23, 2020 at 02:24 pm

Cobb is younger and has played with Rodgers. Do not know if he is signed for this season.

0 points
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Dragon5's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:38 pm

Wishful thinking given their past chemistry, but the year of the RAT is about to begin. Cobb is a HORSE, which is the RAT's enemy sign. High odds Cobb underperforms or gets hurt

#1 Amendola OX
#2 Green (too expensive) DRAGON
#3 Dorsett MONKEY

Though attractive options on paper, Anderson, Perriman, and Sanders likely to underperform as well next year. Further develop EQ, MVS, Lazard, and draft a difference maker after rd 1. Guys like Denzel Mims and KJ Hill are making noise.

0 points
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Swisch's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:18 am

I like our group of wide receivers, but do want to bring in a shifty slot receiver similar to Cole Beasley and Cooper Kupp, plus a real speedster who is quick as well as fast.
It's tricky because we already have a corps of younger guys who may be ready to make big jumps next season; but we have to add talent just in case.
A final thought: With stars in Davante Adams and Aaron Jones already on board, and good hope that one or two of our current skill players on offense will step up in a big way, perhaps our main focus should be on the defensive and offensive lines.
However, it seems worth one top draft pick, or one major free agent signing, to try for a slot receiver or a speedster who could be an exciting playmaker on offense. (Then we can also bring in other skill players at lesser costs.)

-2 points
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murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:40 am

I don’t think we can rely on any of the WR’s not named Adams on the roster. Might one or two make that leap, yes very possible, but none other then Lazard’s even showed a glimpse to make a wager on.

1 points
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Swisch's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:23 am

Remember, murf, that we can't we rely on draft picks, or even free agents, to come through, either. Nothing's for certain, although I do favor going for one big name to bring in.
That's why I go for an approach of not giving up on our current guys, while also bringing in new guys -- especially new guys with different skills.
Rodgers could really use a go-to guy in the middle of the field, whether a slot receiver or a tight end. Plus, there's always a need for speed.
We have to really hope that our general manager and coaches are good at evaluating whether guys like ESB and MVS are going to be at least close to the next Davante, and whether Tonyan and Sternberger, are going to be the next.... When was our last top tight end?
The key to a championship, though, seems to be in the trenches; the frontline blockers and tacklers make a lot of other guys look good.

0 points
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PeteK's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:46 am

Agree, I got fooled by that this season ,not again. We need a TE/Slot WR that can move the chains and give Rogers a quick option. Even slow mo Graham caught 7 passes in the playoffs, just think what a quicker TESWR would do for this offense.

2 points
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TarynsEyes's picture

January 23, 2020 at 10:44 am

This team is actually sinking and the record achieved this season which is more from opponents failings and players missing at the perfect time has many a fan here blinded and ignoring the sinking feeling.

The list provided in the article and obvious agreement to it with a few adjustments mentioned, shows you this team isn't a player or two away, it's 5-7 players away at least and that doesn't have GB at the precipice of a SB and being in the NFCCG this season is the biggest reason why the sinking that was on display Sunday will be on weekly display next season.

Let me put forth the reason/excuse that has been a constant when we don't fill the needs from the draft part, "We drafted at the bottom of the round."

-10 points
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PeteK's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:59 am

We have all the major, pricey positions covered with very good to excellent players. QB, LT , RB ,pass rusher, NG, shut down CB. That's why we will be elite again.

0 points
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TarynsEyes's picture

January 23, 2020 at 12:24 pm

QB is not elite anymore'
RB is solid,not elite.
Pass Rusher is damn good, not elite.
NG is elite.
CB, no shutdown yet.

-3 points
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Johnblood27's picture

January 23, 2020 at 05:54 pm

Maybe if Alexander would shut up he cold shut down.

Too much talk and not enough walk for me.

-1 points
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Dagger's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:33 am

For the most part I agree with the list. However I would not trade/cut Lane Taylor at this time. He could be a valuable "6th" man on the offensive line. If you could get back Bulaga at a team friendly contact it would be a solid choice. Graham's departure is two years late. Crosby is a no-brainer and a Packer for life. (I think Justin Tucker made $5 million this year. ) Linebacker and WR are the number one areas in my mind. If a QB slipped to the second who had a high grade I would take him. All dependent on who that QB is. Let's win the north division again this coming year and go from there.

0 points
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PeteK's picture

January 23, 2020 at 11:51 am

Taylor at 5 mill ?

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:01 pm

My offseason list is different.

I start with the fact that we're trying to win with Aaron Rodgers. He needs to be kept healthy and protected, so I look at the offensive line. We have, already under contract, Bakhtiari, Jenkins, Linsley, Turner, Taylor, Patrick, Cole Madison, Alex Light, and several others under contract or as ERFAs. We only activate 8 and we already have that. We keep maybe 9 on the 53 man roster. I think these are all pretty good players, and familiar with the system. I'd draft one OL, probably on Day 3, but I'd largely stand pat with what we have, and no, I wouldn't be retaining Bulaga. I don't think it's wise to spend $10 million (Spotrac's estimated value) on a 30 year old guy with an injury history. Loved him when he was drafted and I think he's a very good lineman, but it's time to go in a different direction.

Then, since protecting Rodgers means running more and throwing less, I'd look at my running backs. Jones just had a great season and stayed healthy, but both him and Williams are in the last year of their contracts. Behind them we have Swervin' Ervin and Dexter Williams. I'd stand pat with this group, too, unless a chance to improve the group just jumped in our lap.

And if we release Graham and Lewis, we're pretty thin an inexperienced at TE. I do agree with the author that if we could get one FA on offense, that guy should be a TE (not a tackle, like Bulaga)

I'd stand pat at WR. Our #2 is a decoy/blocker on about 90% of the plays, and Lazard/Kumerow/MSV/ESB can handle that just as well as some speedy rookie. Give some UDFAs a shot to hang on as a practice squad guy.

So on offense, we don't HAVE to spend any premium picks on offense, and just get one FA.(at TE).

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

On defense, we need some bigger stronger guys in our front 6. I'd be very interested in a big hog of a human to put in the middle of our defensive line, either ahead of Lancaster or alongside of him. I'm going to hope that Brown/Keke/Adams improves enough to provide some help too. I'd spend a premium pick on a run stuffing DT.

Our edge rusher rotation of Smith, Smith, and Gary is fine. We'll have to replace Fackrell, who will leave in FA. I don't think we need a premium pick here.

Our ILB situation is going to have to be improved. Frequently, we play with one ILB on the field, Martinez. He's our leading tackler, one of the leading tacklers in the league, who calls the defensive signals and gets people lined up. He never misses games, he's Stanford smart, and he plays 99% of our defensive snaps. He's 25. For all the complaining about his lack of coverage skills, he allowed 61 completions for about 9 yards per completion. That's about 4 short pass completions/game. He should be signed to a new deal, and we should spend a premium pick upgrading Burks and Summers.

Our safety position looks good, and it could be even better. Possibly, we could move Jackson to safety, and along with Green, we'd have a really good back up situation behind Savage and Amos.

We have two capable starting corners in King and Alexander, but King is in the last year of his deal. Behind them we have our oldest defender (Tramon) and some UDFA types like Sullivan and Redmond. In my opinion, we could use some help here. I think we need to be able to put three good corners on the field all the time, even with injuries, and with King possibly leaving after the season I'd be in favor of getting a starting caliber corner, and that's probably take a premium pick.

So, I'd sign two free agents: A TE on offense, and Martinez on defense.

I'd use my three premium picks on defense. CB, ILB, DT Add those three guys, plus Raven Green, to a defense that finished 9th in the league in scoring defense. Expecting/hoping Gary, Savage, and Sullivan to improve with a season under their belt. Same coordinator, same system. IMO, we'd have a very good chance of improving from last year's #9 ranking on defense.

Couple that with an offense that runs the ball, rarely turns it over, and has a pretty good QB and I think we'd have an excellent chance at winning the division next year again.

-5 points
1
6
Coldworld's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:09 pm

Kumerow is not good enough, he was just better than Allison this year. We need to not fool ourselves and move on. Lazard has a role as a blocker and in certain formations. Other than that, not one GB receiver showed enough to merit retention and Lazard is a 4th receiver type ideally in many formations.

Kumerow is a 5th receiver at best. He doesn’t have upside. MVS has speed and it’s baffling why he dropped off the map. Give him and EQ a shot, but only on the basis that they take a big step forward.

Frankly, I would look long and hard at the coaching of the WRs this year. Zero development and regression. One might look at that for interior D linemen too.

As for TE, I’d consider bringing one in if there is a candidate in the draft or mid FA. Sternberger looks promising, but Tonyan did not progress and was terrible blocking in the last game. Can not rely on both of them to be ready.

1 points
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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:17 pm

Every WR not named Adams or Lazard could walk and it wouldn't make a huge difference. Players like Kumerow, Allison, etc., are going to be available in spades. Even Lazard isn't special. I agree on the third-year guys: keep MVS if only for his measureables and ESB comes back off injury to see what he has.

0 points
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Swisch's picture

January 23, 2020 at 01:35 pm

Lazard is very good, and possibly special.
He combines height and speed; has good ball skills and the determination to make the grab; catches the ball cleanly and holds on tightly; runs with toughness; comes through in the clutch; seems to block better than most wide receivers; and appears to have an excellent attitude.
The more I think about it, the more I like him. He has talent plus tenacity.
Please be careful about taking guys like Lazard lightly. He's a legit No. 2 for us at receiver, and possibly a star in the making.

1 points
2
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Coldworld's picture

January 23, 2020 at 02:31 pm

No, he is a useful role player, but he is not of a caliber one should be looking for as a starter. That kind of thinking begets mediocrity. Lazard can play a role but not as a number 2 or conventional 3.

0 points
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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 02:42 pm

Lazard benefitted from being the 3rd or even 4th coverage priority for defenses. Defenses were looking for Adams and Jones--and maybe even Graham--first. I think he's a possession #3 playing behind Adams and a speedier complement at #2.

1 points
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Swisch's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:50 pm

Coldworld and dobber, I'm glad to have you guys here for healthy debate.
I may be wrong, but you'll so sadly regret the day you minimized Lazard's potential, you'll cry and cry and cry and cry. ;-)
This was just his first year on the field, and I just don't know what you don't see in him.

2 points
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dobber's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:55 pm

Maybe it's just that we've been hit by the hype around Allison and Kumerow. I would love it if you're right.

1 points
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Tundraboy's picture

January 23, 2020 at 07:39 pm

Held onto more passes in one season than than those two have in their time in GB. And in the most critical situations.

3 points
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splitpea1's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:26 pm

No surprises here, although retaining Bulaga and finding his replacement sort of cancel each other out ( Bulaga started 12 games in his first year); I would consider adding CB depth a luxury when we have so many other areas of need. In the draft, we really need to concentrate on strengthening the middle of the defense, and on offense, we obviously need the receivers. Free agency-wise, I think they're going to need more than Lewis at TE since our young guys have hardly an experience at all; on the other hand, they'll never get any experience if they don't play more regularly, so it will be interesting to see how Gute handles this situation.

1 points
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4zone's picture

January 23, 2020 at 03:41 pm

The most you're gonna get in terms of immediate impact players from the draft are 3. I think we can resign Bulaga and Crosby AND extend Clarck and get one, 'maybe' two upper level FAs at either DL, WR or ILB. I think bringing Lewis back makes sense and I expect he won't cost us much.

Who makes that year two jump? Gary better. He should already be wreaking havoc considering how high he was drafted.

0 points
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Lphill's picture

January 23, 2020 at 04:32 pm

Packers signed a playmaker receiver already from Canada Reggie Begelton , he catches everything , he will be on the roster next season , Adams, Begelton, St Brown is a pretty good 1 , 2 and 3 . Draft a receiver day 2 , the pick in the 1 at round should be best linebacker available, find a big body in free agency for the DLine, Sternberger should be number 1 tight end , re sign Lewis for one year. The team needs tweaking not rebuilding.

0 points
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murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 05:26 pm

Begelton has potential and that's it. He hasn't even played a down in the NFL and your are anointing into the #2 position. We need more experienced help like Randall Cobb with the potential of the other receivers. I suspect one or two will show something and get on the top 6, but to say any of them are our #2 is stretching it a bit.

0 points
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murf7777's picture

January 23, 2020 at 05:19 pm

Bring back Randall Cobb.....he will give you a good slot receiver, one who has a connection with Rodgers and give you 50+ catches with 600 yards and 4-5 TD's with Rodgers. A great compliment to Adams.

-1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

January 24, 2020 at 08:24 am

Because we should pass more and run less.

0 points
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Lphill's picture

January 23, 2020 at 06:32 pm

I’m sure MM in Dallas will want go keep Cobb, Cooper is a free agent and will probably get paid from someone , Cowboys have decent cap space so maybe they will re sign both.

0 points
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flackcatcher's picture

January 23, 2020 at 09:10 pm

I could go with what everyone wrote here. Seriously, the needs are what they are. How Gute gets there will be the interesting part. The O line and D line both jumped to the front after getting gut punched by the 49ers. Outside of that, watching what Gute focuses on this off season and how he reshapes this roster will tell the tale for the next and future seasons...

0 points
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