Packers GM Brian Gutekunst Addresses Key Offseason Questions

From the future of Rashan Gary and Quay Walker to the team's struggles to finish games, Gutekunst covered a range of topics at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 11:39pm

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Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst spoke at length with reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine, addressing a number of key offseason questions facing the team. Gutekunst discussed the surprise departure of special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia, the uncertain futures of defensive standouts Rashan Gary and Quay Walker, the likelihood of running back Josh Jacobs returning, and the team's need to improve its ability to close out games. Gutekunst also provided updates on offensive lineman Jordan Morgan and Sean Rhyan, and acknowledged the team's lack of a first-round pick in the upcoming draft.

Why it matters

As the Packers look to bounce back from a disappointing 9-8-1 season that ended with a Wild Card round loss, Gutekunst's comments provide insight into the team's offseason priorities and the difficult decisions it faces regarding key players. The futures of Gary and Walker, in particular, will be closely watched as Green Bay navigates a tight salary cap situation.

The details

Gutekunst expressed surprise at the resignation of special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia, saying it "caught us by surprise." The Packers' special teams units have struggled in recent seasons, ranking 29th in 2023 and 20th in 2025 according to Sports Illustrated rankings. On the defensive side, Gutekunst offered a lukewarm assessment of Rashan Gary's future, saying the team will "see how that goes" regarding the former first-round pick. Gary's $28 million cap hit in 2026 could make him a potential cap casualty. Meanwhile, linebacker Quay Walker has likely priced himself out of Green Bay, as the team opted not to pick up his fifth-year option and is currently over the salary cap. Gutekunst was more definitive on the future of running back Josh Jacobs, indicating he expects the veteran to return as the team's RB1 in 2026 despite his $14.5 million cap hit.

  • In Week 3 of the 2025 season, the Packers had a 99% chance to defeat the Cleveland Browns with 3:45 remaining but ended up losing the game.
  • In Week 16 of the 2025 season, the Packers had a 99% chance to beat the Chicago Bears with just over 2 minutes left but again failed to close out the game.
  • In the 2025 Wild Card round, the Packers had a 96% chance of beating the Bears with 4:55 left but ultimately lost the game.

The players

Brian Gutekunst

The general manager of the Green Bay Packers, who has held that position since 2018.

Rashan Gary

A defensive end for the Green Bay Packers who was a first-round draft pick in 2019.

Quay Walker

A linebacker for the Green Bay Packers who was a first-round draft pick in 2022 and has led the team in tackles in each of his first four NFL seasons.

Josh Jacobs

A running back for the Green Bay Packers who is entering the final year of his contract in 2026.

Rich Bisaccia

The former special teams coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, who resigned from his position on February 17, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I wouldn't say we were expecting it at all. It caught us by surprise, but I think there's some other opportunities he wanted to look at. Very appreciative for his run with us. … I think he's a fabulous football coach. It's a big loss but Matt's going through it now and hopefully we'll be able to get that replaced.”

— Brian Gutekunst, General Manager, Green Bay Packers

“Obviously (Walker's) played very well for us in his time here and been an exceptional leader, and losing him would be tough. I think we have guys in house that can play and fill in if that's not the case, but a lot of respect for Quay and if we're able to get him back, I would be all for that.”

— Brian Gutekunst, General Manager, Green Bay Packers

“Obviously Josh played really well for us last year, major part of our football team. Very durable, tough. Yeah, he's a very important cog in what we're trying to do here.”

— Brian Gutekunst, General Manager, Green Bay Packers

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This offseason will be a critical one for the Packers as they look to address their struggles to finish games and close out victories, while also navigating difficult decisions on key defensive players like Rashan Gary and Quay Walker. Gutekunst's comments suggest the team is committed to improving its situational football and finding ways to win close games, which will be essential if Green Bay hopes to return to the playoffs in 2026.