Packers Brass to Address Key Roster Questions at NFL Owner’s Meetings
Green Bay Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst and Head Coach Matt LaFleur are scheduled to speak with the media this week during the NFL Owner’s Meetings in Palm Beach, Florida. And with several critical roster decisions looming, Packers reporters will have no shortage of pressing questions to ask.
Three Questions for Gutekunst:
1. What’s the status of Jaire Alexander?
The biggest topic on the table may be the future of All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander, who has been the subject of trade rumors. While he remains on the roster and no contractual deadlines are imminent, his status for 2025 is still unclear.
When last asked, Gutekunst gave vague answers regarding Alexander’s future, and since then, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Green Bay has explored trade possibilities. No deals have emerged since that report, but the recent signing of Nate Hobbs raises questions about what that means for Alexander’s role. Could he remain a Packer beyond this offseason, or is a move still on the table? Gutekunst’s comments this week could offer vital clues.
2. What led to the signings of Aaron Banks and Nate Hobbs?
Gutekunst has yet to elaborate publicly on the team’s recent acquisitions: cornerback Nate Hobbs from the Raiders and guard Aaron Banks, who completed his rookie contract with the 49ers.
Fans and analysts alike will be eager to learn what traits made these players stand out to the Packers. Do their skill sets represent upgrades or simply a change in style compared to the team’s previous options? Insight into how they’re expected to fit into the system—on and off the field—will be crucial.
3. Are contract talks underway with Zach Tom?
With a handful of core players set to hit free agency after the 2025 season, locking in right tackle Zach Tom long-term should be near the top of the priority list.
A new deal seems inevitable for Tom, who has established himself as a foundational piece of the offensive line. Securing his extension early would help avoid distractions during the season and beat the inevitable rise in the market value for top offensive tackles. While there’s little concern that a deal won’t get done, an update from Gutekunst would provide reassurance and clarity.
Three Key Topics for LaFleur:
1. Will Elgton Jenkins move to center?
The departure of Josh Myers and the addition of Aaron Banks—a player who has primarily lined up at left guard—suggest that Elgton Jenkins may be shifting to center. Although Jenkins has NFL experience at the position, it’s mostly come in emergency situations rather than with a full offseason of preparation.
Given Jenkins’ leadership and experience, transitioning him to center could stabilize the line and enhance communication with quarterback Jordan Love. However, without official confirmation from LaFleur, it remains speculation. A direct answer would provide clarity heading into offseason workouts.
2. What’s the plan for Jordan Morgan?
After missing most of his rookie year with a shoulder injury, former first-round pick Jordan Morgan could factor into the competition at left tackle or right guard in 2025.
Although Morgan played left tackle in college, Green Bay’s coaching staff may see him as more versatile. Gutekunst believes he’s a long-term tackle, but it’s unclear if LaFleur shares that vision or if Morgan will primarily battle Sean Rhyan at guard. As the Packers adhere to a “best five” philosophy for their offensive line, Morgan’s ability to contribute at multiple positions could be key. LaFleur’s comments could clarify how he’s being evaluated.
3. Is Jayden Reed’s role about to change?
The signing of Mecole Hardman, who fills a similar niche as Jayden Reed—slot receiver and return specialist—has sparked discussion about Reed’s future usage.
Reed has shown flashes in the slot but has struggled as a punt returner, and with Christian Watson likely to miss significant time with a knee issue, there may be an opportunity to deploy Reed as an outside receiver. He thrived in that role at Michigan State, even though he hasn’t done so much in Green Bay. Hardman could take over return duties and allow Reed to help stretch the field vertically from the perimeter.
LaFleur may not reveal all his plans, but any hint about Reed’s evolving role will be of high interest.
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