Packers GM Discusses Contract Extension After Injuries

Gutekunst aims to maintain continuity with LaFleur and Ball amid defensive line depth issues.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst discussed a contract extension, expressing excitement to maintain continuity with head coach Matt LaFleur and executive Russ Ball. This comes after the team's defensive line depth was tested following the trade of Devonte Wyatt, who suffered injuries that exposed a critical flaw in the Packers' defense.

Why it matters

The Packers' defensive line was a key area of concern last season, and the team's ability to address those issues through the draft, free agency, and contract extensions will be crucial to their success in the upcoming year.

The details

Gutekunst spoke about the importance of keeping the Packers' leadership team intact, including himself, LaFleur, and Ball. The team's defensive line depth was tested after trading Devonte Wyatt, who suffered injuries that revealed a critical weakness in the Packers' defense.

  • Gutekunst's comments came on February 16, 2026.

The players

Brian Gutekunst

The general manager of the Green Bay Packers.

Matt LaFleur

The head coach of the Green Bay Packers.

Russ Ball

An executive with the Green Bay Packers.

Devonte Wyatt

A defensive lineman who was traded by the Packers and suffered injuries that exposed a critical flaw in the team's defense.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I thought it was going to be a week,”

— Devonte Wyatt (wn.com)

The takeaway

The Packers' ability to address their defensive line depth issues through the draft, free agency, and contract extensions will be crucial to their success in the upcoming season as they aim to maintain continuity in their leadership team.