Why This Is Brian Gutekunst's Most Important Draft Yet

The NFL Draft is an important event for any GM, but this year means a lot more for Brian Gutekunst and the Green Bay Packers - here's why...

The band is back together!

The Packers did everything they could to bring back all their starters (including two surprise moves in Aaron Jones and Kevin King) from last year when they almost won it all. They still lost a couple players, though, meaning they are in worse shape than they were at the end of the season... and that wasn't good enough.

With a maxed cap and their veteran roster pretty much settled, the draft is this only real hope the Packers have to improve enough to get over the hump.

There's still an open debate as to whether or not Brian Gutekunst is really any good at drafting, but one thing is for certain: he has not built a Super Bowl winner yet.

Last year, his draft was clearly focused on the future. The year before, his top pick - Rashan Gary - took a over a season to start realizing his potential. The year before, his first move was a trade down for future picks.

That's great.

I'm a big fan of investing in the future.

In my book, A Fans Guide To Understanding The NFL Draft (ahem, a #1 New Release on Amazon that you can find here), I talk about draft and develop (which the Packers do well) and how successful teams invest in the future via the draft.

Investing in the future is very smart.

But Gutekunst has already done that. He has young, ascending stars in Jaire Alexander, Darnell Savage, and Rashan Gary. He even has the presumed quarterback of the future in Jordan Love.

Now, it's time to get some players that are poised for an immediate impact.

Just look at what the Tampa Bay Buccaneers did last year en route to their Super Bowl win. Rookies Tristan Wirfs and Antoine Winfield Jr played huge roles at positions of need to help their team earn rings this year.

With huge holes on the offensive line and a lack of depth at cornerback, the Packers will need that if they want to bring the Lombardi home in 2021. 

This is the year that Brian Gutekunst needs to make his mark on the Packers.

The 2021 NFL Draft is going to be a wide-open rodeo. Never in modern era football has a draft been filled with so many unknowns. Seasons were shortened or canceled. There's less film on prospects. Prospects had less time to develop. The Combine didn't truly happen in the controlled environment talent evaluators are used to.

There are gems waiting to be found in every round, at every position.

This is the year were the best talent evaluators will launch their teams to the next level.

Brain Gutekunst has proven capable of finding top talent in the 1st round.

That will be more difficult this year.

Gutey's track record in the other rounds has been inconsistent at best.

This year, he will need to nail his mid-round talent evaluation to have any chance of finding value.

The good news is that this year should be the draft where the most talent is available to be had as substandard GMs whiff in a very difficult environment.

On the flip side, Brian Gutekunst could be one of them.

If this draft doesn't yield immediate impact, not only will it be a wasted draft, it will waste one of the precious few chances the team has left with Aaron Rodgers.

Compounding that problem for Brian Gutekunst, missing out this year would also make his plan to bring as many players as possible (despite the salary cap implications) a complete and utter failure.

He will have continued his sub-par draft record and mismanaged the big picture in terms of building a championship roster.

At that point, Mark Murphy may have to wonder what value Brian Gutekunst has.

This will be his most important draft yet.

 

Hit the comments to let me know your thoughts on how the Packers should handle the draft.

 

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.

__________________________

Bruce Irons has played, coached, and studied football for decades. Best-selling author of books such as A Fan's Guide To Understanding The NFL Draft, A Fan's Guide To Understanding The NFL Salary Cap, and A Fan's Guide To NFL Free Agency Hits And Misses, Bruce contributes to CheeseHeadTV and PackersForTheWin.com.

Follow Bruce Irons on Twitter at @BruceIronsNFL.

__________________________

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8 points
 

Comments (142)

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

April 18, 2021 at 11:11 am

It’s not just about Gutie it’s also about how well the scouts do. And how well other teams draft because we draft after them in the draft order. And of course there is the questions of injury and motivation which are sometimes hard to predict. It’s a tough tough job.

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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:49 pm

Agreed...there are a lot of excuses.

That is, unless of course, you're not drafting to improve, you're drafting to build.

Last year Gute gave up on the current team in the draft, BUT....this season he's refocused and drafting for immediate talent and starters...according to some Packer fans.

Call me crazy....but shouldn't that have been the goals in last years draft?

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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 02:45 pm

I guess not...lol

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jannes bjornson's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:46 pm

They live for the future, and the carry-over of CAP dollars

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cms's picture

April 18, 2021 at 07:56 pm

You're NOT crazy.

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NoNonsense's picture

April 18, 2021 at 11:35 pm

Just give it a rest. Gute has taken this team to 2 NFC Championship games in a row. After cleaning up some of the mess left by the Thompson and McCarthy era.

Yes he may have cost them a chance to win the SB last year by drafting a QB and RB with 3 of his draft picks. But....

You can't tell me with any certainty that had he picked two or 3 more immediate needs that they would have beat TB then the Chiefs in the SB. Better odds maybe but no guarantees.

Gute made those decisions and maybe he regrets it, maybe he doesn't but the past is in the past. It's time to live in the present and future. Hopefully hes learning from his mistakes.

As a fan that's all we can ask for.

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Nate-1980's picture

April 21, 2021 at 08:17 pm

Correction Aaron Rodgers and Matt L brought this team to two NFC championship games..:)

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BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:29 pm

It's definitely a team effort for talent evaluation, but at the end of the day, it all comes down to the GM's final say.

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HankScorpio's picture

April 19, 2021 at 05:30 am

I completely agree that Gute needs some time to get his house in order the way he wants it ordered. That's a process that can take time, I would imagine.

It would involve review and analysis of reports by individual scouts on individual players with the benefit of hindsight to really know if the reports are on the mark or missing it. Given that, it requires the same 3 yr passage of time to really know that is widely accepted. He's running up on that window now. Hopefully it will allow him to do better in the later rounds. His first day 3 was not good. MVS is the best of the bunch. I'm not one of the many MVS kool-aid drinkers. He's not nearly as good as Day 3 picks like Linsley, Hyde, Bahk, Sitton, Lang, Daniels, etc. Those kind of home run day 3 picks are the vital lifeblood of a successful, cap-healthy team.

That might already be playing out. We don't really have a good read on last year's group but there is some promise in Kamal Martin & Jon Runyan. Personally, I think Vernon Scott might have a future. I've seen others that I don't consider prone to hyperbole sing the praises of Simon Stepaniak.

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splitpea1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:11 pm

Every upcoming draft is always the most important; what have you done for me lately?

With the exception of the OT, Gute should be trying to upgrade CB and DL, before he even thinks about any other positions. I would add ILB as well, but that falls into the fantasy realm. Try to find the gems at WR and RB later on. Want to get to the Super Bowl in the near future? Build a solid interior defense and nail down the other CB position with someone as ready to contribute as possible. There are prospects available in the first three rounds for these three defensive positions that can help us now and in the future. Take them and don't obsess about the offense!

I'm glad that the author reminded us that when you have a HOF QB, the goal is to win the Super Bowl, not be simply competitive, aware that other franchises may be envious of us, or any of those other consolation prizes.

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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:27 pm

I'm glad that the author reminded us that when you have a HOF QB, the goal is to win the Super Bowl.

OR, the goal might be to...find a QB in the draft who can start in 3 or 4 or 5 years, while spending the first 4 picks on players who won't help your team.

In Gute We Trust

-6 points
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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 02:48 pm

In Gute We Trust

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splitpea1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:20 pm

I'm only speaking for myself, but he gets one more draft's (this one) worth of trust. He'll address CB fairly high, but if he continues to ignore or deprioritize the DL and ILB positions, we'll always be wandering on the same plateau: good enough to be one of the top teams in the NFC, but never the best--which from this fan's perspective, is wholly unsatisfying.

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jannes bjornson's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:48 pm

His priority should be Zaven Collins and sniff out a OT in round two.

2 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

April 21, 2021 at 09:45 am

Without pulling out QB statistics for the past 3 or 4 years prior to 2020 (after Love's selection Rodger's game improved) Rodgers game was slowly deteriorating all the while eating up a disproportionate amount of cap with not playing at an elite level.

Who knows Gutes true motivation for drafting Love, bit it is undeniable Rodgers had his best year in many years. As a result, the Packers almost reached the SB. There could be a few reasons for Rodger's significantly improved play but I at least feel the number 1 reason was the drafting of Love for the improved play.

I see Gutey's drafting of Love to be genius. It woke up Rodger's significantly improving his game in 2020, and I believe the by product of Love will keep Rodgers playing at an elite level. That alone is worthy of the draft picks #1 and 4. Without Rodger's playing at the level he did there is no way they get to the NFC Championship game.

Many on here have lamented for years the Packers did not have a bona fide backup QB. In Love they finally do! I note that last year Love actually had a slightly better completion percentage than 3rd year Boyle. Hmmm!

Several reasons why Gutey drafting Love was a good decision. Now if Love turns out to be a good starting QB on a rookie salary Gutey just hit a 600 foot grand slam in the bottom of the 9th inning in game 7 of the World Series.

Deep breaths! Going to have a draft party next Thursday and enjoy the outcome. Presently, believe we are in very capable hands with Gutey at the helm.

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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

April 21, 2021 at 09:42 am

Without pulling out QB statistics for the past 3 or 4 years prior to 2020 (after Love's selection) Rodgers game was slowly deteriorating all the while eating up a disproportionate amount of cap with not playing at an elite level.

Who knows Gutes true motivation for drafting Love, bit it is undeniable Rodgers had his best year in many years. As a result, the Packers almost reached the SB. There could be a few reasons for Rodger's significantly improved play but I at least feel the number 1 reason was the drafting of Love for the improved play.

I see Gutey's drafting of Love to be genius. It woke up Rodger's significantly improving his game in 2020, and I believe the by product of Love will keep Rodgers playing at an elite level. That alone is worthy of the draft picks #1 and 4. Without Rodger's playing at the level he did there is no way they get to the NFC Championship game.

Many on here have lamented for years the Packers did not have a bona fide backup QB. In Love they finally do! I note that last year Love actually had a slightly better completion percentage than 3rd year Boyle. Hmmm!

Several reasons why Gutey drafting Love was a good decision. Now if Love turns out to be a good starting QB on a rookie salary Gutey just hit a 600 foot grand slam in the bottom of the 9th inning in game 7 of the World Series.

Deep breaths! Going to have a draft party next Thursday and enjoy the outcome. Presently, believe we are in very capable hands with Gutey at the helm.

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TheBigCheeze's picture

April 18, 2021 at 11:36 am

"Investing in the future is very smart"------I totally disagree.....there's a name for teams who are perennially investing in the future...they're called.....wait for it......LO S E R S !!!!!!!

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Coldworld's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:01 pm

Not investing in the future is the way to win?

That’s what you said. Doesn’t ring true to me in any walk of life.

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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:35 pm

There is a difference in drafting for help when you were one game away from a Super Bowl with a HOF QB with a closing window....

Then drafting for the future offering you no/little help improving your current team.

In other words....
How about drafting for the purpose of improving that current team giving it the best possible chance you can give it, adding talent, used on the field.

Some fans might want to consider, maybe it's time, to pull their heads out of the sand.

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greengold's picture

April 18, 2021 at 01:42 pm

That IS the position the Packers find themselves in now, no doubt.

With two of the best RBs in football on their roster, and Tonyan, Sternberger & Big Dog returning, imagine what might have been in 2020 had Gutekunst chosen differently at those TWO early spots, in spite of the Love trade & pick...

Did they make the mistake of thinking they were 1-2 players away after losing in the NFCC game? Possible. We’re more than that now, making “win it all now” a far greater challenge.

Personally, I can’t stand the “draft for need” debates. The Packers generally have a good balance of need & future with their selections, and in the end, every team is drafting for need on some level.

As a side note, if we take a TE this year I’ll puke.

5 points
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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 02:42 pm

"That IS the position the Packers find themselves in now, no doubt."

It wasn't last year?

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BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:33 pm

I think they were a lot closer this year than they were last year, even though their season ended at the same spot.

The 49ers pushed them up and down the field, the Bucs wouldn't have won if David Bakhtiari or Jared Veldheer had been healthy and still needed a career-worst performance from Kevin King and a couple end zone drops by the Packers to win.

3 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:55 pm

"With two of the best RBs in football on their roster"

I'm assuming you're referring to J. Williams as being one of the two? While I love his attitude and overall contributions to the team, he has averaged slightly less than 500 yds per year with a high of 556. Great teammate and character guy. But hardly one of the "best RBs in football".

2 points
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BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:35 pm

It's such a tough balancing act because drafting for need is a sure-fire way to leave talent on the board.

I think they need to move around the board to match need with value.

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greengold's picture

April 18, 2021 at 02:23 pm

I understand what you’re saying, but, does anyone think Belichick takes Ty Warren thinking he’s a mere investment for the future?

These debates occur every season. Ted Thompson sadly took the MO to an extreme, often killing chances at the prize as a result.

To me, these are just circular arguments that accomplish nothing.

Go get your guys (not necessarily meaning trade up rather, take them not caring if someone calls it a reach), the players you feel best fit your needs now, knowing they’ll be a part of your future. The next Super Bowl Sunday is in the future. Go get it.

Sometimes you can work a trade to get a better slotting, sometimes you just can’t. THIS year might be a good one to focus on filling immediate needs early, often, hell, all the way through...

3 points
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HankScorpio's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:37 pm

Every draft pick is an investment in the future. At least you hope they are good enough to stick around 4 years or more.

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Irish_Cheesehead's picture

April 18, 2021 at 02:22 pm

Not they're not, they are called the Lions.

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PeteK's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:38 pm

Yeah, Drafting Rogers for the future really turned out badly.

3 points
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HankScorpio's picture

April 19, 2021 at 05:49 am

I'm hard pressed to name a better Packers draft pick than Aaron Rodgers in my lifetime. Maybe Bart Starr in round 17 prior to my time on this earth. But you can argue that was luck since they passed on Starr 16 times. No such argument exists with Rodgers. He was their first pick that year. They knew he would sit for a year or two (3 as it turned out). And they were rewarded handsomely when he finally did take the field. He's the ultimate argument for drafting BPA.

May the selection of Jordan Love turn out half as good. If it does, it will be a home run. I don't think we can expect another grand slam that clears the entire stadium. But I suppose we can dream.

2 points
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KenEllis's picture

April 18, 2021 at 11:45 am

Yeah right, Gutey's most important draft ever ... or at least since his 2020 draft or until his draft in 2022 LOL.

Gutey literally drafted the successor to the NFL's 2020 MVP in round 1 in the last draft.

Gutey can do whatever he wants to do with the upcoming draft and nothing will compare to his decision to use his 1st and 4th round picks on Jordan Love in 2020. Nothing.

And just like his 2020 draft picks had almost zero impact on the 2020 season -- well at least zero positive impact, the 2021 class will likely offer little to no immediate help for the upcoming season.

Then, after likely winning the woeful NFC North again before failing to reaching the Super Bowl for the 11th straight season, Gutey can continue to orchestrate his plan to move on from Rodgers. Once that happens, Gutey can claim the team is re-building going forward and hoila, with no measurable performance metrics, Gutey will be focusing on the post-Rodgers' Packers' roster.

Being the GM in Green Bay is a dream job.

No one to hold you accountable so you can literally be too infirm to perform the duties of the job (a la Gutey's predecessor) for several years and still keep your job.

That Gutey is going to be the Pack's GM for the foreseeable future short of some transgression involving moral turpitude is a given because continuity, stability, loyalty (don't dare utter the word complacency) are what the cloistered folks in the front office prioritize (for themselves) most of all -- and with a Hall of Fame QB guaranteeing 10 wins a season and a fan base that by and large seems just fine with beaten da Bears, Vikes, and Lions before bowing out against the bullies of the NFC, why would the front office make any changes in the way it operates?

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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:12 pm

Whoa whoa whoa....Mr. Ken Ellis!!
The Packers had the talent to win that Super Bowl
:)

Hot damn!! A no BS zone....refreshing

The only thing not covered is if Gutes next wonder boy 1st round franchise project QB fails to develop into even a starter in the NFL, and if Gute then gets a free pass and keeps his job.

The other thing not covered is who will get more thumbs down, you or me.

Warning: I'm pretty damn good at it :)

-5 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:57 pm

One should reward hard work, regardless of merit.

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TarynsEyes's picture

April 18, 2021 at 01:56 pm

Rewarding hard work has a line, and that line is the amount of success/benefit that is derived from that hard work. Hard work without the success/benefit ultimately becomes a waste of time and resources.

The FO is and has been rewarded much favor from the fans base without the success/benefit required to continue rewarding such 'hard work' at the same level. Another season of 'almost' will and should erase the previously rewarded 'work hard' value placed/given.

The reward of hard work must be justified by the return value (profit) that it produces. A hard worker might work hard but if it returns nothing or less than the cost awarded, it's a failed system. The Packers system has been a failed system in proportion to the goal expected. Yes, it has maintained a relevance, like a store being able to remain open for business, but that business will likely not be more than what it is, but more likely to become less than it ever had been.

The Packers have been surviving most of the 27 years with Favre and Rodgers with 2 profit blips along the way. To believe anything more above mere relevance has been the reward is foolish, especially when the Division Title has been a near-automatic, by the drive to fail by those in that division.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:54 pm

It is called Utility in economic theory.

0 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

April 18, 2021 at 10:02 pm

Solid take, jb, but I think Taryn is going full Adam Smith here in referencing guidance on The Stairs of Growth and how they relate to "hard work." I believe he alludes to the impacts of inane verbosity in The Wealth of Nations, too.

Just remember, until one spreads one's wings, one will never know how far one can walk.

2 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 19, 2021 at 02:07 am

I think you used a mixed metaphor.

1 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 01:17 pm

And very deserving of it. Maybe if you changed topics occasionally instead of beating the same old tired horse to death, you'd receive less. Just a thought.

1 points
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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:18 pm

Changed topics?

Are you confused some how?
Look at the headline of the article 13....
What is the subject matter?
Isn't that what i'm commenting on?

Since when do you dictate what i can comment on, and what i can't common on?

Who made you King of the Castle, to determine what subject matter can or can't be discussed?

Here's my advice to you....if you don't like that i discuss the teams drafts, under a article discussing the teams drafts, why don't you....

1) Complain to Aaron Nagler and tell him that you don't like the football comments of some readers....on a football forum website.

2) Or....You can always tell your problems to Jesus, instead of stalking and harrassing me here. He cares...i don't

But thank you for at least not making it personal, by belittling and insulting my parents like you have in the past.

That shows possible growth.

-1 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:43 pm

Give me a break. Like you've never personally insulted other posters on here that disagree with you. I'm pretty sure I remember you calling people "kitties" before. Your obvious attempt to clean up calling them pu**ies. And I wasn't insulting your parents. Try comprehending better.

Remind me again when I dictated what you can or cannot comment on. Again, comprehension. Work on that.

I just made a helpful suggestion that you might want to limit commenting on the same thing to maybe....I don't know....100 times or so?

3 points
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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:48 pm

LOL...NO?....i must have MISUNDERSTOOD...were you COMPLIMENTING my parents?
<SMFH>

When it's your job...to make "suggestions"
Show me your PLASTIC BADGE and then maybe we'll discuss it.

Thank you for understanding.

-3 points
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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 11:50 am

"I talk about draft and develop (which the Packers do well)"

Explaining why we don't have needs at the same position for years, and years, and years.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 18, 2021 at 11:59 am

You aren’t going to hit on everyone, you can’t draft and develop an entire team. Not even TT tried that. The aim is to beat the curve by improving more than others and having a flow of improvement to bolster draft and FA. Football 101. The Packers have been pretty good at that, with the exception of the end of TT’s reign—a drought that we are still recovering from.

8 points
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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:09 pm

I understand

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BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:38 pm

Some of the needs are by design.

They value ILB lower than any other position on defense. Edge rusher and cornerback are more important. The defensive line is more important. Safeties are more important the way they've used them.

The Packers want to stop the pass first and ILBs aren't that big of a help in that regard.

It's also a position most other teams value less, which is why guys like Martin and Barnes were able to be taken so late.

You can't be great at every position.

0 points
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splitpea1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:08 pm

ILBs aren't that big of a help in stopping the pass? Didn't Jack Lambert change all of that four and half decades ago?

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BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 08:09 pm

Compared to pass rushers on the line, edge rusher, cornerback, and safeties, I would say they are potentially the least helpful position on defense in stopping the pass. It doesn't mean they can't or don't, it's just the way the the positions typically play.

2 points
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PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 09:10 pm

They value the ILB position lower and that position has done more to stagnate our offense than most on 2 teams that have Elite ones not counting the colts Elite ILB. Maybe we need to reevaluate this issue that is a non issue to some who don't think clearly.

0 points
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splitpea1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 10:32 pm

Maybe this is a case where the fans are smarter then the prevailing wisdom of some front offices; when you see White, David, Warner, and Wagner making all kinds of plays, it make you wonder....

1 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 18, 2021 at 11:55 am

This year is more important than some, but the reason is the unexpected cut in the cap. That means we need more now from the draft.

I disagree that should be a materially more challenging draft this year. For one thing it is stocked at our positions if need except dual threat run/penetration DL. The hardest part of drafting early is not current readiness but assessing whether that comes at a price if ceiling. Hawk might be an example of an error in that regard.

This year the Packers should be looking at readiness now predominantly. Help the team now. The disrupted college season mostly impacts late bloomers and smaller college types. The early draft players should have plenty of tape, at least the ones that we ought to be looking at.

Add to that the depth of the draft. We should be able to find some sub package/role player contributors later. For example, option, DB, DT run stuffers, returner etc., as well as some high upside development players at the back end, even UDFA, where the lack of tape will reward good scouting (I think we have that).

What we have is a very similar looking roster now. What we need is players to come in and force that to change by September. The draft sets up well if we largely ignore long term upside till day 3 and ask what players can add now. If Gute grasps that, then I actually think that this draft could be less challenging as a result.

4 points
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Turophile's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:01 pm

How many other years have I heard the cry that THIS YEAR (whatever that year is) is the most important year to draft well.

Answer, as many of you have probably guessed, is every year. Every. Single. Year. Without fail. I'm still waiting for the year when someone says "It's not quite so important who we draft this year"................and if you have more important years you must also have less important ones...............but it never is THIS year.

9 points
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greengold's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:55 pm

I totally agree. One great unknown is how current D personnel might shift to new uses under Barry for his scheme. Should be interesting to see how this comes together.

5 points
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PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:20 pm

I always thought Pettine tried to force players to fit his system, instead of changing his system up to match the talent he had to work with so they could perform better on average.

3 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:59 pm

Best to go 4-2/5-2 fronts and snag Collins in the draft. He can control the second tier.

2 points
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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:25 pm

"This year is more important than some, but the reason is the unexpected cut in the cap."
***********************
So last years draft strategy made more sense if we didn't have cap restraints...this season?

You draft to improve your team every year, the cap should have no bearing on that.

This years cap in no way, under any stretch, justifies a draft last year that didn't help the 2020 team.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:33 pm

When the wind changes, it pays to trim one’s sails

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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:47 pm

Well...now the 2020 draft makes sense...

Thanks Cold

-1 points
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stockholder's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:18 pm

Forget value. Draft the Gems. If anything Murphy can judge Gute on. It's the holes that were never filled. And creating bigger ones. He's hurried and covered his mistakes. Example- The trades; (per Kizer, ILbs) then drafting Love. The spending of money; instead of drafting capable replacements. I get the gambles. But There is No satisfaction guaranteed with what he does. Has Gute even lifted a finger to help Rodgers after drafting Love? I say pitiful. The problem on defense; is his picks won't win a knock down dragged out fight. We know who left. And the answer to that was nothing. So what will tear this team to pieces? Focusing on a CB and not the DL. Leaving a weapon on the board for value. And trying to hard to replace Turner. I don't mind trading up. But jumping to high, can only result in a longer drop. Every draft has been to important for the packers. It's to bad the next step was only a big DL, a Ray Nitscke, and another Cobb.

-3 points
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7
marpag1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:31 pm

Wait…. what?

How does a lack of information benefit the best talent evaluators? Doesn’t it actually bring them down to more equal terms with the worst talent evaluators?

In what year are gems NOT waiting to be found in every round and at every position? How is this year different?

Who says it will be more difficult to find top talent in the first round?

Is it possible that the lack of a proper “Underwear Olympics” might actually help GMs to make decisions based on… y’know, football, instead of the goofy shuttle runs and vertical leaps from the workout warriors at the combine?

Why on earth would anyone say, “[Gutey] will need to nail his mid-round talent evaluation to have any chance of finding value.” Huh? So there is no chance at all to find value in the first round? Or the later rounds? Or in undrafted free agency?

Who in their right mind would say, “If this draft doesn’t yield immediate impact, it will be a wasted draft??”

How are you saying that Alexander and Savage were “picks for the future” when they STARTED 11 and 14 games, respectively, in their rookie seasons? And were these guys “wasted picks” because they didn’t provide immediate impact? Oh wait… they did provide immediate impact. Never mind.

For that matter, what draft pick is NOT a “pick for the future?”

And what does this “sentence” (cough, cough) even mean: “Compounding that problem for Brian Gutekunst, missing out this year would also make his plan to bring as many players as possible (despite the salary cap implications) a complete and utter failure.”

If “this is the year that BG needs to make his mark on the Packers,” are you saying that drafting Alexander and Jenkins and Savage and Gary and everybody else was NOT “making his mark on the Packers”??

I'm not sure I've ever seen an article so packed full of logical fallacies, weird conjectures, baseless assumptions, and unproven opinions presented as if they were facts. Let’s just say I won’t be buying the book. LOL.

5 points
8
3
BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:58 pm

I think lack of information makes it harder to evaluate players. The harder it is, the more it benefits the more proficient talent evaluators. When all the information is easily available and clearly obvious, then even the bad GMs can evaluate talent.

The less information there is, the more people fall, the more that people fall, the more gems are waiting for later.

As for the early rounds, Gutey has shown the ability to find guys like Jaire, Savage, Gary, and Jenkins. He has yet to nail his mid round picks in a draft.

The difference between picks for the future and picks for now are that when you draft for immediate need, it often comes at the expense of a player who may be much better but needs time to develop. Guys like Jaire Alexander are premium elite players that have an immediate impact and are great for years to come. You take those whenever you can.

There just aren't a lot of Jaire Alexanders hanging around waiting to be picked at 29.

As for the compounding problem: Gutey brought as many veterans back as possible despite the tight salary cap to try to win now. Missing on the draft would render that plan a failure as well as missing on the draft.

Gutey needs to make his mark with this draft class because to, so far, he hasn't been able to get more than one or two starters in a draft. "Making his mark" would be a career-defining draft where more than a couple starters are found.

Hope you enjoy the draft!

-1 points
0
1
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:31 pm

"For that matter, what draft pick is NOT a “pick for the future?”

I got this one marpag.

Better understood....a pick for the future would entail the definition....that a draft pick, who isn't planned on being used, is therefore a pick for the future.

Case in point: Jordan Love...1 season, 16 games. Never once activated on gameday.
Or: A back up who is still learning, and isn't ready to start, but he has to come in if the starter gets hurt.

Case in point..AJ Dillion..Drafted 2nd round, with 2 effective rb's already slotted as starters. This player may get spot duty, or play because of injuries. But make no mistake, he's a player drafted for the future.

Thank you for understanding.

-2 points
2
4
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 19, 2021 at 02:40 am

If there is no info or tape, every GM is just throwing a dart.
If there is less info, the most discerning will do better. There are an awful lot of one-year wonders and players who have only played a couple of games in two years who are projected to be highly drafted.

There are gems in each round, but if GMs incorrectly evaluate more prospects than normal, there might be more gems that slip into the later rounds. There are a lot of mid-round prospects who could have used another year of coaching and reps. I'd say there is a good chance to find gems if Gute nails day three.

Tend to agree GMs will find the top talent in rounder 1 and that all picks are for the future. Some are selected with actually starting in season one in mind. All GMs make a mark. So far, Gute's has been a good one, but he has work to do.

People who want to win a super bowl tend to say that this draft class needs to provide immediate impact.

Gute just mangled the crap out of the cap to bring back as many vets as possible back this year. That strategy will indeed be a failure if GB falls short of a super bowl or fails to make the playoffs.

I enjoy your comments, Marpag. It just seems like you got out on the wrong side of the bed today.

0 points
1
1
flackcatcher's picture

April 19, 2021 at 02:48 pm

This all depends on how you view the draft. Marpag is correct in his critical view of Bruce Irons analysis. If one of my people presented a such a hedged shifty piece of work, he still would be flying from the boot I would have planted on his back. Sure, Marpag could have written: 'Bruce Irons article on the upcoming Packer draft is value free'. But what's the fun in that. We're all hard core football fans here, we all know this is the hardest part of the year. Lack of solid information and full scale DIC make many a fan cranky. Bruce Irons wrote a lazy sloppy piece, and Marpag nailed him on it. The good news is Bruce won't do that here again, because he knows the standards at CHTV are a bit higher.

0 points
0
0
greengold's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:37 pm

Definitely a year to hit most immediate needs earlier. There’s always a prime player that falls through the cracks, and I won’t begrudge them for nabbing one at a lesser position of need with a pick or two. Regardless, the Packers do find themselves drafting for need to close out Rodgers’ career in GB on a high note. 2021 is a very important draft for the Packers, without a doubt.

Losing the NFL’s top LT for an extended period doesn’t help, but thankfully, this year’s crop of OT’s is loaded.

5 points
5
0
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 12:40 pm

The question won't be is this draft or that draft more important.

NO....the next discussion will most likely be....the importance of who is conducting the draft.

-5 points
1
6
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:58 pm

Ok...lol...stay tuned

0 points
0
0
CheesyTex's picture

April 18, 2021 at 01:17 pm

"With huge holes on the offensive line and a lack of depth at cornerback..."

Interesting that an author with the credentials he lists would fail to include defensive line in that comment.

6 points
6
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 19, 2021 at 02:43 am

There aren't many d-line prospects. Since the article is about finding help in the draft, I understand why DL was omitted. I hope Gute doesn't omit it from his thinking, but I suspect said help will have to be a September cap casualty.

1 points
1
0
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 01:23 pm

"Now, it's time to get some players that are poised for an immediate impact.

Just look at what the Tampa Bay Buccaneers did last year en route to their Super Bowl win. Rookies Tristan Wirfs and Antoine Winfield Jr played huge roles at positions of need to help their team earn rings this year."

Drafting players who can provide an immediate impact is quite a bit easier to do drafting at 13 like TB did last year as opposed to drafting at the bottom of every round.

4 points
8
4
PatrickGB's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:02 pm

The NFL, in effect, punishes, teams who win lots of games with lower draft opportunities. The NFL punishes teams with high salaried players with the cap limits. The Packers have won lots of games and have some elite high salary players. So the FO has to Houdini its way around it. Good luck. Let’s hope that Gutie can find a way.

3 points
4
1
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:31 pm

I can't wait to see how many "immediate impact" players Tampa drafts this year.

-2 points
0
2
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:20 pm

"The NFL, in effect, punishes, teams who win lots of games with lower draft opportunities."

In the draft, some teams punish themselves.

After adding two strong rookie contributors from the 2020 draft instead of looking for a QB
Tampa Bay has a pretty strong team across the board, they might get by just fine on adding depth.
I think they could even draft a QB high because of the strength of the team now.

Who knows...they might even have the talent to win another Super Bowl.

It's a crazy world we live in.

0 points
1
1
splitpea1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 05:32 pm

Lower draft opportunities? That's a bit of an exaggeration regarding the Packers. I'm too lazy to do the math with every draft pick, but we have Gary at 12, Alexander at 18, Savage at 21, Jenkins at 44, Jackson at 45, and Sternberger at 75---not exactly the end of every round.

1 points
2
1
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:53 pm

Thank you for making my point for me.

When they DIDN'T have to draft at the end of rounds, they actually came up with talent. Kind of like TB last year.

4 points
4
0
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:54 pm

double post.

0 points
0
0
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:54 pm

.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 19, 2021 at 02:45 am

True. TB traded up for Wirfs at #13.

0 points
0
0
fastmoving's picture

April 18, 2021 at 01:25 pm

I never recall any draft who wasnt the "Most Important Draft Yet", never. .................

3 points
3
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 19, 2021 at 02:48 am

Fair. But then, GB had TT as GM.

2019: FA might have been more important.
2020: FA was more important than the draft if just the 2020 is considered.

2 points
2
0
PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:01 pm

The 2020 NFL draft RD 1-4 did zero for 2020. That is what this is about, and that's all there is to it. If 2020 draft was Gutes plan to win a Championship he is an utter failure as a GM. So far he has overpaid Smith's , LT and DL
contracts, siphoning out the last of the money we had to improve through FA after years of draft misses. Sorry, but when I can watch a College players highlight tape for 5 minutes and see he's a first round talent that can start immediately and Gute sees a 4 year project QB instead???????? What's going on? I think a few of his picks will stick, but we have big holes on the DL / CB-S / OT / ILB. Time to use a 2021 #1 and move up or use on another plus player. A good Edge rusher would get rid of excess Cap hit also since Gary is playing better than the high paid P. Smith and should have been already starting over him.

-3 points
2
5
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:49 pm

This has been one..if not the best comments i've read on this website.

I don't know if that comment was endorsed and approved by 13TimeChamps.

But i'd give it 20 thumbs up if i could.

-8 points
1
9
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:13 pm

Actually it wasn't. Any armchair GM on here that actually thinks they can do a better job at building an NFL roster is delusional. But that's what these sites are for....venting. Nothing more...nothing less.

Unfortunately some posters on here like PF4L don't realize that and take themselves way too seriously. But, whatever gets you through the day.

9 points
10
1
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 07:06 pm

.

-1 points
0
1
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:46 pm

Deflect much?

1 points
2
1
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 07:05 pm

.

0 points
1
1
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:44 pm

MY act is getting old? Lol.....you're funny.

1 points
2
1
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 07:03 pm

Who gives a ....? NOBODY

People don't want to read this stuff.

Put on your big boy pants and just stop.

-1 points
0
1
13TimeChamps's picture

April 18, 2021 at 10:13 pm

I will when you put on yours and quit incessantly whining about past drafts.

1 points
2
1
PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 01:06 am

I will when you will...waa waa waa

You don't tell me what i can, and cant comment on.
Wtf is wrong with you boy?

You're a child.

-1 points
0
1
jannes bjornson's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:14 pm

Zaven Collins and move P Smith is my mantra and I'm sticking to it. He can snag a couple of DT/DE s in the fourth and move Lowry w/out missing a beat.

4 points
4
0
Bear's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:05 pm

20 years counted.
According to Pro Football Reference, most drafted players are busts. the only problem with their system is they don’t take into account the round they where picked. But anyway…
16.7% don’t even end playing for the drafting team (20 years average)
37% are considered ‘useless’, or busts.
5.3% are ‘poor’. Busts such as Jamarcus Russell are here.
So 69% are ‘poor’ or worst.
10.5% average
12.3% good 
6.8% great
1% legendary
That gives 20.1% good. 2 out of 10.

5 points
6
1
PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:30 pm

Looks like scouting and gambling go hand in hand.

2 points
2
0
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:26 pm

Here is my one problem with drafting an edge rusher. I understand the concept of dumping a high prized free agent, but....

We spend so many resources trying to get just one position right.
We spend 118 million on two free agents, then weeks later we use the 12th pick on a project DE for OLB.
We couldn't have drafted a DL, corner, or receiver with that 12th pick?

So now, do we want to use another draft pick again...2 years later on an edge rusher?

The same thing happened with cornerbacks. We drafted 5 corners in the 1st or 2nd round since 2015. One has worked out.
Now here we are needing another one in 2021...badly, plus some better depth.

It's good that we at least tried in those years (see 2020 draft) but...results matter also.

For the record, just so there is no illusion, some FYI...

Since signing the Smith Brothers and drafting Gary.
The 2018 team had more sacks than both the 2019 and 2020 team. For whatever that's worth.

Note Worthy: Why Preston Smith wasn't released is beyond my understanding. It was the perfect entrance for Gary to show what he's worth. He's earned that chance.
That still may be the case if they sit Preston.

Sitting him would tell you what you need to know about Preston.
His days of riding Z. Smiths coat tail are over.

3 points
4
1
PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:45 pm

I was not crazy w/ Gary pick, but he has been impressive even though Pettine refused to start him over P. Smith. As far as I'm concerned Gary passed his ability around week 9-10 and should have started after that full time. Drafting a good Edge now will allow for both on the cheap if the new guy is a keeper and that would lead to cap easing. That is why I would trade up for Paye if it was doable. I'm at a crossroads because I know that would pay off and wanting Barmore on the DL next to Clark at the same time. Having a better pocket push would help minimize our CB dilemma. I think Barmore will help positionally sooner, but Paye financially sooner. Paye will help our pay. I also like a couple ILB's and one of them would be awesome. I guess it's like this: Any of these actions will do more for our team than anything Gute did last season.

2 points
2
0
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:00 pm

The problem with Z. Smith is he's arguably your best defensive player sans Alexander, plus after restructure, he has 24.7 million in dead money.

You may release or trade Z next season and save 15 million, but take on 12 million in dead cap.
Preston is gone next season i would think (7 million dead cap).

Next year when/if they trade Rodgers, they'll have an extra 1st round pick, maybe more.

Next year is when the real drama starts.

2022 is Gutes 5th year of his 5 year contract, and those extensions are usually made in the 4th year. If it hasn't already...in secret, Like McCarthys extension

When Love was drafted, i instantly said Gute may very well get a contract extension for that pick....to see it through.

I'll see ya under the big tent next season, it's gonna be one hell of a circus.

2 points
2
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:21 pm

The only reason to hang with P Smith is to use him as a trade chip to move up in the first round. I would try to acquire two first round picks this draft a ' la Raji and CMIII. Plug and play is the name of the game to win the big game.

2 points
2
0
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:40 pm

I don't think the Packers had much luck finding a trade partner for Preston this off season, i don't know if that changes.

0 points
0
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:32 pm

Why draft a DL when they viewed Montravious as one of "their guys". Another whiff from a three pick. Will he make Belichick's squad?

2 points
2
0
PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 09:25 pm

When you have a shovel in your hand and you dig yourself a deep enough hole, I imagine the view is poor, but it's yours.

1 points
1
0
BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 08:06 pm

Reasonable points, but I've been thinking edge may be a spot they target this year. Even if they don't either Smith, they'll only have one more year on their deals after this season and the Packers may be looking for some young guys to develop.

The bigger thing I think about though, is Za'Darius Smith and/or Rashan Gary playing more defensive end. They each have the body to do it and it may be easier to find an edge than another defensive lineman to put next to Kenny.

0 points
0
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 18, 2021 at 09:22 pm

4-2/4-3 looks forget the 3-4

0 points
0
0
PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 09:43 pm

2019 Smiths had a lot of sacks between them and our offense was a lot better....on the field more. 2020 P. SMITH was down but our defense was on the field less than all other teams......It sure didn't seem like it did it. Can't sackem' if you're not on the field. It would be interesting to know the run rate increase of other teams after failing at stopping the run in 2019 NFCC game. Our OLB holding the edge improved greatly this season.

0 points
0
0
PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:54 pm

Nice work Bear...

This is why they call this time of year..

The Silly Season.

-1 points
0
1
BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:13 pm

I don't know if I agree with that. If 69% of the players are below average, I don't know what qualifies as average.

The draft isn't an easy undertaking, but it a team isn't getting more than 1 or 2 starters each year, they're not going to be good for long.

-1 points
0
1
Leatherhead's picture

April 18, 2021 at 08:02 pm

Yeah, that’s pretty shaky. The fat part of the bell curve is the middle 2/3.....that’s average. The remainder is equally split between the above and below average.

On a 53 man roster, that means about 36 average guys, 9 above average guys, nine below average.

Rodgers, Adams, Jones, Bakhtiari, Z., Alexander, Clark, Amos,........we have our fair share of above average guys.

4 points
4
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 19, 2021 at 03:09 am

About 17 guys actually get on the field on D. 5 more get a handful of snaps.

About 16 guys get on the field on offense. About 5 more get a handful of snaps.

Actually looking at GB's roster, I'd count 12 as above average, 9 as average, and 32 as below average or average to below average at their limited assigned role. [Yes, if I counted again, I'd get somewhat different numbers!]

0 points
0
0
Leatherhead's picture

April 19, 2021 at 07:22 am

That’s not a bell curve.

0 points
0
0
BruceIrons's picture

April 19, 2021 at 07:42 am

You're a tougher grader than me. I don't think a team with 60% below average players would win so many games.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 19, 2021 at 10:31 am

>Average (15): AR, Adams, Bakh, Z Smith, Clark, Amos, Turner, Jones, Jaire, Savage, Crosby, Jenkins, Gary, Lazard. Probably should have included Tonyan.

Average ( 10 ): Lewis, MVS, Lazard. Lancaster, Keke, Dafney, Redmond, Lowry, Sullivan, P Smith, Dillon (and I am holding my nose on Lowry, Redmond);

< Ave (13) King, Barnes, Burks, JK Scott, Bradley, ESB, Summers, Martin, Black, Garvin, Taylor, Dexter Williams, Josh Jackson.

Inc./TBD (21): Sternberger, Martin, Runyan, Funchess, Hollman, V. Scott, Stepaniak, Garvin, M. Taylor, Hanson, Nijman, Runyan, V. Scott, Black, Garvin, Nauta, Rush, Braden, Kaufusi, Russell, Love.

I guess I was a little harsh, but not all that far off.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

April 19, 2021 at 11:12 am

Looks pretty much like every cap era roster for a team that doesn’t have a first contract QB or perhaps years of top ten drafting.

That’s why injury luck is so critical. It also is relevant that some of the ones below average are ST mainstays. The odd thing is we have players like EQ and Jackson who didn’t contribute in STs either. That isn’t sustainable.

1 points
1
0
HankScorpio's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:12 pm

The Packers have maneuvered themselves into cap troubles. The way you get out of cap troubles is by having good young talent on rookie contracts. They need both quality and quantity from thise draft. If Gute shows his usual lack of patience and trades up in round 1 again, the questions I have about whether he really gets how to be the GM will grow. And he needs to start hitting some day 3 picks,

1 points
5
4
LambeauPlain's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:27 pm

Team Gutey has assembled what PFF and others call one of, if not the best rosters in the NFL. And going 28-8 over the last two years has awarded the Pack as end of round drafters. I think he has drafted guys many teams would want and signed FAs coveted too.

Yet this author calls Gutey a sub standard drafter. I'd say he and his team are good at acquiring overall talent.....while assembling one of the best rosters in the NFL. Plus, the time to grade a draft class is 2-3 years later. So far, His draft classes are already showing potential elite players.

10 points
12
2
PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:42 pm

Gute is ranked #13 as GM's in the draft for hits. Gutes main failure at this point, is not going the xtra mile and trading future picks on weapons to get us over the hump at the trade deadline and overpaying contracts, which lessen what he could do in the offseason with FA's. He had several whiffs in his first drafts but most of the rest are at least going to contribute. His lack of urgency to upgrade at ILB and especially DL is maddening.

0 points
2
2
PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 09:18 am

That's true, But anyone drafted past round 2 has not produced much to brag about. Rounds one and two will give you the best chance of hitting. But lets see a starter from rounds 3-6 like other GM's do here and there.

I'm sure he'd grade high on anyone's chart rankings based solely on the win/loss record where splitpea1 addressed it accurately.

0 points
0
0
splitpea1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:20 pm

As far as the 28-8 goes, Gute inherited a HOF QB and some very good offensive players....The standard is the Lombardi Trophy, not what PFF says, although factors such as coaching obviously play into this....I'm not ready to call Gute "substandard", but he needs to be selecting some quality defensive players in this draft who aren't long-term projects or high-round busts. When he re-signed King, Lancaster, and Redmond, I hope it was for insurance and flexibility and not, for lack of a better description, solutions that would finally get us over the hump--because they won't.

2 points
3
1
LambeauPlain's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:24 pm

I would say Aaron "inherited" a GM who made him one of the richest men on Earth and awarded him a 1/4 th of the salary cap. So far Aaron has held up his end off the bargain and Gutey has surrounded him with talent and kept the other Aaron that makes Aaron's passing life much easier, given the running threat.

Who is comparing the Lombardi to NFL analysts? I am simply stating the obvious that Gutey has assembled a talented roster. And hired a prolific HC. Drafting is part of the formula...and so far, there is no evidence he has not done well with that piece as well.

3 points
5
2
splitpea1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:53 pm

Most of that offensive talent was there already: Bakh, departed Linsley, Davante, A. Jones....So far, there is no evidence that Gute has outperformed, either: 2018, poor; 2019, much better; 2020, a total mystery since we have hardly seen most of them play. The jury's still out on Mr. Gute. If he finally prioritizes fixing the interior of the defense, at least we'll know he understands that this is the true path to salvation....

0 points
1
1
LambeauPlain's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:59 pm

So your view is TT is responsible for the back to back 14-4 seasons? I would give credit to Gutey's team and ML's coaching staff.

Geez.

1 points
1
0
splitpea1's picture

April 18, 2021 at 07:38 pm

Partially, yes.... Gute's team is Love, Dillon, Degaura, Jenkins, Gary, Jackson, Burks, Alexander, Savage, Sternberger, etc. The outside free agent signings were important, no question about it. As for the coaching staff, two coordinators were deemed replaceable, so apparently everyone wasn't completely satisfied with those 14-4 seasons. So once again, the jury is going to be out on MLF: with his in-game management and his new hires, which includes DB coach Gray from last season.

0 points
0
0
PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 12:42 pm

Split....

They want to give Gute credit, it's his team....ok, that's cool.

It's also his team that lost 2 NFCCG's in a row, after getting steam rolled by each of those teams in the regular season.

But that isn't a good conversation piece.
That's why 2 readers in here banned any Gute/draft talk :)
If you do.....you get this...

"Facts are we don't know a damn thing about Love yet, but I'm sick and tired of talking about a year later. CHRIST, get over it!!" - anonymous

That's the angry one...the other one is just short bus special.

-1 points
0
1
PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 12:22 pm

LambeauPlain.....

No credit to the MVP?

-1 points
0
1
PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 09:21 am

Splitpea1...Don't feed the monkeys :)

-2 points
0
2
PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 09:29 am

Spot on splitpea1....

Gute gets a bit of credit...a small bit.
Alexander and Elgton
Maybe Z Smith and Amos, but with what those free agents cost the Packers, they could buy Rhode Island.

Majority of credit to the architects, LaFluer, Hackett, and the MVP.

It's a job damn well done that they had the #1 offense without a #2 receiver.

0 points
1
1
BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:15 pm

I can't argue that Gutey has nailed his free agent signings. The problem is that they cost a lot more than draft picks. The only way to have a good team every year is to draft well and take advantage of young, cheap talent.

The free agent picks were necessary and successful, but they're a big reason for the current cap crunch.

Gutey's draft classes still have time to develop and contribute, but so far I haven't been completely impressed.

3 points
3
0
PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 12:56 pm

Good concise description Bruce.

Free agents are the no brainer talent acquisitions vs draft picks. Because they've already proven themselves to a point (that varies)

In essence, they already know what they are getting.

So yes, when you spend 182 million on 5 free agents, you should see some ROI.
Whether it's a 182 million worth, is another discussion.

Our 2nd highest paid free agent had 4 sacks, 0 forced fumbles, 0 interceptions, 3 passes defended......as of today...he has received over 33 million dollars.
You make the call.

Lets put 182 million dollars in perspective....what is this seasons salary cap amount?

NOTE: I didn't ask for permission to discuss these facts...so i might get some thumbs down :)

-1 points
0
1
Since&#039;61's picture

April 18, 2021 at 03:48 pm

We are worse off than the end of last season because we have lost 3 OLs from last season if you count Bak, since we don't how far into the season it will be before he returns. We have one legit NFL DL, one NFL WR, and our ILBs are ???s. We have also lost a very good RB. We have weakened the team by re-signing King and retaining Lowry??? Those 2 moves reduce our cap space and do nothing to improve the roster.

I would not say that this is Gute's most important draft but if it goes poorly it could be the beginning of the end of his tenure as the Packers GM. IMO he needs to hit on a CB and DL who can move into starting roles or at least a rotational role for the DL by the last third of the season. He also needs to add some level of reliable depth at OL, RB, WR, & ILB. That's 6 position groups that need either a starter or depth who can step up and play during the 2021 season. That is a pretty tall order for any GM.

Given this situation Gute should not trade away any of our picks. He should use all of his picks and try to hit on as many as possible. In any case for all of their alleged expertise Gute and Ball have painted themselves into a very tight corner from which their only way out will be to hit on their draft picks, have few serious injuries (again) and hope that Rodgers has another MVP type year in him. Not to mention a few lucky bounces and favorable officiating. More variables than certainties at this points. Thanks, Since '61

-4 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

April 18, 2021 at 04:32 pm

Other than that Mrs. Lincoln, how was the play?

Good grief...the Packers had no cap money to keep most of the roster intact but Gutey and Ball did just that...including keeping Jonesy.

11 points
11
0
PhantomII's picture

April 18, 2021 at 08:00 pm

Or let now injured Bak walk/ limp off and use his 25 mill to get a quality DL and starting CB. Draft a LT and move up if you like to do it and fill his spot. Draft a great ILB at the top end of the draft and move up to get that if you want.

0 points
1
1
Since&#039;61's picture

April 18, 2021 at 11:39 pm

Lambeauplain I’m fine with keeping Jones but not with keeping King and Lowry. Also Linsley and Wagner are gone and Bak is out for probably half the season or more.

To me not re-signing King and chucking Lowry may have enabled us to sign an FA DL or CB. Plus we lost Williams.
That’s at least 3 starters gone from the roster with no improvement yet. And we will need to find cap space to sign our draft picks, UDFAs and RFAs so further roster cuts may become necessary post-draft unless we extend Adams and Rodgers. So at this point I would not say that our roster is still intact. Thanks, Since ‘61

0 points
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PF4L's picture

April 18, 2021 at 06:05 pm

After last years draft, Gute better hit on something.

Thanks Since'61

-1 points
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tommynak's picture

April 18, 2021 at 07:03 pm

You can't be any more lost than this article. You have questions over a GM that has brought you on the brink of the SB 2 years in a row with 13 win seasons, hired a head coach that looks to be a real gem. The Draft is a crap shoot, this years roster already has 2 guys from last years draft in Deguara & Stipaniak which are like having 2 excellent additions that should contribute immediately. You say the offensive line has holes to feel, couldn't agree with you less as the players to fill the opened positions are already on the roster and sure depth will be added. the packers have proved time and time again that they know how to develop offensive lineman.

We were able to keep the roster for the most part intact, Rodgers at QB is a bonus for any team. Sit back and enjoy the ride of the 2021 season which should prove to be an excellent year as well as good of chance of any franchise to reach the ultimate game.

5 points
7
2
BruceIrons's picture

April 18, 2021 at 08:18 pm

Gutekunst did a phenomenal job in the head coaching hire and found some very good free agents. He's also drafted some very talented players in the 1st round, but outside of Jenkins, he hasn't done much to impress me in the draft after the 1st round.

I'm very high on guys like Deguara, Runyan, and Martin, but so far, they're more potential than production. I don't see a clear starter at center or right tackle yet (I think Jenkins and Turner are both most valuable at guard).

It's very possible that a lot of his picks from the last few years make big leaps in contribution this season. Either way, I'm optimistic for this year.

1 points
1
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PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 01:19 am

Wait a second...

Are you guys under the impression Gute himself hired LaFluer?

Interesting.

You may want to watch the press conference where LaFluer was introduced.

0 points
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NickPerry's picture

April 19, 2021 at 05:25 am

WOW Bruce, you're pretty harsh on Gutekunst IMO. The way your talking, you sound as if ALL of Gutes drafts thus far have all looked like the 2015 draft class the Packers had when the reality of it is he's done okay.

I'm not crazy about his draft picks in 2020 FOR 2020, but I'm damn sure I love the idea of a Aaron Jones and AJ Dillion backfield in 2021. NO ONE liked it when Ted Thompson made Aaron Rodgers his first draft pick as Packers GM but that sure turned out okay. Facts are we don't know a damn thing about Love yet, but I'm sick and tired of talking about a year later. CHRIST, get over it!!

In 2018 he landed Jarie Alexander and MVS PLUS and other 1st round in 2019 which he used to draft Savage with. Speaking of 2019, Gute also landed Gary, Jenkins and they DO have a OG READY to jump in NOW in Jon Runyan Jr. He did nothing last year but show us he could play.

Hey 2021 IS an important draft and it's one I think Gute will do just fine. Just like he's done since he was named GM. Lets keep the pitchforks in the sheads for a bit longer.

8 points
8
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PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 10:38 am

Let me get this straight NickPerry...

You're sick and tired about someone bringing up their opinion on Gutes drafts, or of Love, that also cost us a 4th round pick, yelling at Bruce to......"CHRIST, get over it!!"

Do you have a badge authorizing yourself to decide what can and can't be discussed?
Without you yelling at someone like Bruce.

Do you have a list of what subjects or players you've "approved as acceptable" for us to discuss here?

Like...an "officially approved list"?
So we don't offend you and others like you.

We don't want to make you guys angry.

If you want to take away our freedom of speech.
Please submit the "approved list" as soon as you can.

So we can follow it, per your orders.

Thank you for understanding.

-3 points
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PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 10:22 am

The insanity....

Having the freedom to talk about a football team, in a football forum?

It's a world gone crazy!!

This isn't North Korea, where you are allowed freedoms people!!

-4 points
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NickPerry's picture

April 20, 2021 at 06:33 am

Just because I use CAPS doesn'tmean I'm yelling at anyone. As a matter of fact I deplore the idea of anyone talking down and shitting over someone elses opinions.

This is the 2nd time you've tried to engage me with your comments. If I may, I'd suggest you get to know the people around here a bit longer before being making a comment like the one above.

Lastly when I said "Get over it" I mean that for EVERYBODY. Love is here, he's a Green Bay Packer, at least for now and has been for close to a year yet people still bring it up. Perhaps instead of posting here on CHTV those still bringing it up should go get some help for letting shit go.

2 points
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Espejo3's picture

April 18, 2021 at 09:49 pm

Who is Bruce Irons?

0 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

April 18, 2021 at 10:17 pm

Check out Packersforthewin.com for a brief bio of the author, and also Google Wolf Mountain Publishing.

0 points
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PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 09:04 am

"Whatever, the case, if Aaron Rodgers goes down for any amount of time, the Packers have a prospect with premier talent ready to take over the helm." - Bruce Irons

Premier talent.....Ready?

-1 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 19, 2021 at 03:21 am

The 2020 draft class played 652 snaps during the 2020 season. [It can still be a very good draft class - time will tell.]

It will be very difficult to advance further in the playoffs in 2021 than the Packers did last year if the 2021 draft class only plays 652 snaps. It's not impossible, but there would have to be a lot of internal improvement.

3 points
3
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Roadrunner23's picture

April 19, 2021 at 07:50 am

Gutekunst has 10 choices and knows full well he needs to get at least 2 impact players and some depth out of this draft or the torches and pitch forks will come out. With that I expect him to:

**trade up several times to get his guys and add a little depth with the rest.

**most likely they will end up with 7 at drafts end

**he will fill in the rest with a couple of “June 1st salary cap cut vets” thus not affecting their compensatory pick(s)

**I am confident Brian G. Will use all avenues available to get this team back to Super Bowl contention without mortgaging the future too badly.

**the Packers are still the envy of most NFL teams and fans, I live in Virginia now (But I always wear my packer gear Including my fully pimped out Packers truck)and 99.9% of NFL fans I talk to speak in reverence about the Green Bay Packers.

We gonna be fine, the Packers have a hell of a team,keep the faith Packers brethren!

2 points
2
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PF4L's picture

April 19, 2021 at 01:06 pm

"**the Packers are still the envy of most NFL teams and fans"

Was that before or after the 2020 draft?

OOPSIE....i forgot, i don't have approval to discuss that draft.

OH BOY....i'm in a heap of doo doo now.

-1 points
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