Packers GM Discusses Bisaccia's Exit, Van Ness' Future

Gutekunst outlines plans for special teams, linebacker corps, and offensive line

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:36am

A cubist-style painting featuring fragmented, geometric shapes in shades of green, gold, and blue, representing the complex strategic decisions facing the Green Bay Packers' front office as they navigate the offseason.The Packers' offseason roster moves and coaching changes require a strategic, multifaceted approach to build on their recent playoff success.Green Bay Today

Green Bay Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst addressed several key offseason topics, including the surprise departure of special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia, the future of linebacker Lukas Van Ness, and the team's plans for the offensive line. Gutekunst indicated the Packers are taking their time to find Bisaccia's replacement, interviewing internal candidates, while also considering Van Ness' fifth-year option. The GM expressed optimism about the team's salary cap situation and roster outlook, despite some high-profile personnel moves.

Why it matters

The Packers' special teams unit was a strength in 2025, so Bisaccia's exit is an unexpected change. Gutekunst's comments on Van Ness and the offensive line suggest the team is carefully evaluating its roster ahead of the 2026 season, with an eye on both short-term and long-term success.

The details

Bisaccia announced in February, a month after the Packers' playoff loss, that he would not return as special teams coordinator in 2026. The team had initially expected him to stay for another season. Gutekunst said the Packers are taking their time to find a replacement, interviewing internal candidates like Cam Achord and Tom McMahon. Meanwhile, the team is considering whether to exercise the fifth-year option on linebacker Lukas Van Ness' contract by early May. Gutekunst expressed optimism about the Packers' salary cap situation, citing potential savings from cutting center Elgton Jenkins and edge rusher Rashan Gary. The GM also discussed the offensive line, noting that Jordan Morgan and Anthony Belton have shown promise and that he's optimistic about their roles.

  • Bisaccia announced his departure in February 2026, a month after the Packers' playoff loss.
  • The Packers must decide on Lukas Van Ness' fifth-year option by early May 2026.

The players

Brian Gutekunst

The general manager of the Green Bay Packers.

Rich Bisaccia

The former special teams coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, who announced his departure in February 2026.

Lukas Van Ness

A linebacker for the Green Bay Packers who is under contract for 2026, with the team considering whether to exercise his fifth-year option.

Elgton Jenkins

A center for the Green Bay Packers who the team may cut to create salary cap space.

Rashan Gary

An edge rusher for the Green Bay Packers who the team may cut to create salary cap space.

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What they’re saying

“We're taking our time to find the right person to lead our special teams unit.”

— Brian Gutekunst, General Manager, Green Bay Packers

What’s next

The Packers must decide on Lukas Van Ness' fifth-year option by early May 2026.

The takeaway

Gutekunst's comments suggest the Packers are carefully evaluating their roster and special teams unit as they look to build on their 2025 playoff appearance. The team's salary cap flexibility and promising young players on the offensive line provide optimism, but the loss of Bisaccia is a notable change that will require a thoughtful replacement process.