With Gutekunst, Packers Fans Should Expect the Unexpected

 

The 2021 NFL Draft is today and one we can say when thinking about the Packers picks in this year’s draft is this: expect the unexpected.

Since he took over as general manager of the Packers in 2018, Gutekunst has kept draft experts, members of the media and the Packers fan base on their toes by making moves that can easily be described as “unexpected.”

For example, in 2018, Gute traded out of the first round initially, picked up an extra first round pick in 2019 and then traded back up in the first round to select cornerback Jaire Alexander. Alexander developed into a Pro Bowl cornerback in 2020.  

The surprises in 2018 didn’t end in the first round. Gutekunst added another cornerback in the second round when he chose Josh Jackson and then picked three wide receivers on day three along with a punter and long snapper.

In 2019, Gutekunst signed two edge rushers as unrestricted free agents in Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith. Despite that, his first round choice with the 12th overall pick was another edge rusher in Rashan Gary. While the pattern of addressing positional needs with multiple players in the same year clearly emerged, few people expected another edge rusher in the first round.

Last season, Gutekunst created the biggest surprise of his tenure so far. While most people expected the Packers to select a wide receiver in the first round or at least early in the draft, the Packers ultimately did not draft a wideout at all in 2020. Instead, they traded up to select a quarterback even though Aaron Rodgers was coming off another Pro Bowl season and was still under contract for another four seasons.

In the second round, Gutekunst added a running back even through the Packers already had talent and depth at that position in Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams. In round three, Gutekunst selected another tight end/H-back even though a year earlier, he had added tight end Jace Sternberger in the third round.

Now, as we approach the 2021 draft, one thing is certain: anybody who says they know exactly what the Packers will do in the first round and beyond is guessing. It may be an educated guess, but nonetheless, with the Packers, it’s difficult to predict exactly what the team will do.

This year, the Packers didn’t add any significant free agents to address their needs, but they did re-sign most of the players who they could have lost in free agency. Of the team’s 22 starters, only center Corey Linsley signed elsewhere. Swing tackle Rick Wagner and inside linebacker Christian Kirksey were both released while backup running back Jamaal Williams and second-string quarterback Tim Boyle both signed with Detroit.

The Packers managed to retain the services of Jones, Marcedes Lewis, Kevin King, Chandon Sullivan and Tyler Lancaster while restructuring several other players’ contracts to get under the salary cap.

There are some things we do know heading into this draft, such as:

1. The Packers do not have any wide receivers under contract for 2022

While there have been ongoing talks about extending Davante Adams, none of the top five players on the depth chart at wide receiver are presently signed beyond this season. Even if the Packers sign Adams and one more receiver to an extension, expect them to add at least one receiver if not more in this year’s draft.

2. The Secondary Remains a Need

King’s deal is essentially a one-year contract with voidable years and he is unlikely to be back in 2022. The Packers will pick up the fifth-year option on Jaire Alexander but will still need another cornerback to start opposite their shutdown corner next season. Expect the Packers to add a cornerback early in the draft, possibly even in the first round.

The Packers also are looking for more depth at safety and possibly to add a nickel or dime back who has the potential to develop into a bigger contributor in a year or two. Multiple players will be added in the secondary this year.

3. The Packers Will Address the Offensive Line

Gutekunst has selected at least one offensive lineman in each of his three drafts. Even though Gute indicated that David Bakhtiari was ahead of schedule rehabbing his injured knee, his status for the start of the season is still up in the air.

The Packers need a swing tackle who can fill in until Bakhtiari is ready to go and in case additional injuries hit at the position.

The Packers may take a tackle in the first two days of the draft and even if they don’t, expect at least one offensive lineman to be selected this year.

4. Defensive Line and Inside Linebacker Remain Needs

The Packers still need more depth and talent at the interior defensive line and inside linebacker. Gutekunst did select Oren Burks in the third round in 2018 but he never quite developed into a steady contributor on defense. Other than that, it’s been mostly day three picks at these positions.

The continued improvement of Kingsley Keke may be vital to the improvement of the defensive line. Thus far, Kingsley has shown flashes of ability but needs to become more consistent and take a leap forward in his third season to become a difference maker next to Kenny Clark.

How and when Gutekunst addresses these positions will go a long way towards determining how much improvement the Packers run defense may have under new coordinator Joe Barry.

 

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You can follow Gil Martin on Twitter @GilPackers

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6 points
 

Comments (136)

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

April 29, 2021 at 12:13 pm

After Covid and the cap crunch, one could argue that we should expect the unexpected this year generally after the first few and that Gute and other GMs could employ different weighting’s resulting in different choices, especially as the draft progresses.

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Coldworld's picture

April 29, 2021 at 12:26 pm

I’m looking for players that could help this year like a later round run stuffing DT in Tyler Shelvin, LSU. DL run stoutness is the salient problem. A choice likely to deliver cheap immediate upgrade in the weakest area rather than blowing early capital in a dubious raft class for players who may or may not grow into that.

Think that way and a GM can win in the late rounds in areas like DT and option/returner, freeing up options early. That’s how to win in this draft in this odd year I think. Picks and pragmatism.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 12:29 pm

Do you think they'd have to trade up to get a player who could impact the team a lot this year?

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packerbackerjim's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:37 pm

I don’t think they expected AR to say he ain’t coming back. How about a little draft day drama.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:41 pm

Yeah, that's a real gut punch

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:44 pm

Wow. WOW. WOW. WOW!!!!

I cannot believe this. This is so 2021. WTF???

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Nate-1980's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:22 pm

Only have dumbass Gute to thank for this mess, how’s that perfect fo doing now guys ??

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:09 pm

Totally agree ColdWorld. However, I do think tapping DT early with one pick would be smart. The Packers are in need of two IMO. One early an one late seems a good way to cover the bases. There are some gems late for just such a need.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:11 pm

No doubt it is a need, the problem is this draft is not very deep at IDL. We'll see what Gute can and will do. Thanks for the comment, greengold.

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:54 pm

Totally agree with you, Gil! That is going to be a tall order filling needs there and elsewhere. Hopefully this draft sets up well for them and they don't have to do much moving around to get what they want. I'm sure we all can see Gutekunst making moves or staying put. Either way he ought to be able to get what he wants/needs.

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Coldworld's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:49 pm

Not very deep with players that can excel against the run and disrupt now. But actually a few who could help versus the run. Focus on the critical goal and don’t overpay on a hope for more.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 12:29 pm

All true Coldworld. Nothing about this past year was "normal" or expected anyway. Thanks for commenting.

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GBPDAN1's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:10 pm

Our GM is a moron. Goodbye Aaron

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Lare's picture

April 29, 2021 at 12:19 pm

Personally, I think Gutekunst feels like he has addressed the needs at CB (re-signing King) and at OL (by drafting three OL last year). That leaves S, WR and LB. If I had to guess I'd say his pick will be Trevon Moerig.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 12:26 pm

We shall see, Lare. Not sure safety is where they should go in the first round but we'll see what Gute does. Thanks for the comment.

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Razer's picture

April 29, 2021 at 12:19 pm

Nice article Gil. I would be happy with a talent at ILB, a tackle and high potential at CB and WR. If we are not going to move out of the 1st round, I would like to see us get Jamin Davis to start the show.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 12:27 pm

He could be a difference maker at that position and we do need help there. The question is will Gute address it that early in the draft. We shall see. Thanks for the comment, Razer.

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TarynsEyes's picture

April 29, 2021 at 12:34 pm

Two WR's,
Two DL,
One OL,
One CB,
The order is open but 6 players are the max the Packers should walk away with, though I lean toward 5 and eliminating the OL.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:50 pm

I think you got the bulk of the positions right. I doubt Gute eliminates the OL, but as I said, you never know. Should be an interested draft. Thanks for the comment, TarynsEyes, always good to hear from you.

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:55 pm

Totally agree, with some others splashed in.

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Leatherhead's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:00 pm

Protect the QB and give him time to do his job. Priority #1.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:52 pm

I think that will be one of the top priorities and Gute will try to address it in the first three rounds of draft with at least one pick and then another on day 3. We'll see. Thanks for commenting, Leatherhead.

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Spock's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:01 pm

I always expect the unexpected as the draft "Guru's" are usually way off after the first half of the first round (if not wrong even earlier). Unlike many here I hate the pre-draft hype, mock drafts, player profiles, etc. Well, actually maybe not the player profiles with the caveat that I only read them AFTER the draft and only if the Packers have picked them up. Tomorrow I will finally get back to being interested in reading about players and I'm really looking forward to that! :)

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:53 pm

I hear you, Spock. There is too much hype and 95 percent of it is noise rather than fact-based. I love the draft but tuning out the erroneous stuff is not fun. Can't wait to see who the Packers select. Thanks for the comment.

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dobber's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:13 pm

I'm trusting in Milt Hendrickson's affinity for OL scouting and hoping the Packers wait to draft their OL support and go D and WR early.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:54 pm

I think it's either CB, OT or WR first and those three areas are the most likely to be addressed in rounds 1-3. Thanks for the comment, dobber.

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Lphill's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:46 pm

Most recent shocking draft moves, Jordan Love and Kevin King over T J Watt .

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:55 pm

Yeah, Love was a big surprise for a lot of people, myself included. TJ Watt is another woulda coulda shoulda pick but that ship has sailed. I hope this year's draft works out well. Thanks for commenting, Lphill, always good to hear from you.

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gkarl's picture

April 29, 2021 at 01:56 pm

My guess for positions. Order and players, not even Gute knows until their on the clock.

WR rds 1-2
CB/S rds 1-3
OT rds 2-4
WR 4-7
DT 3-7
Edge 3-7
CB 3-7
LB 4-7
RB/KR 4-7

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:12 pm

gkarl, those are all very reasonable guidelines. Now let's see what Gutekunst does. I have a feeling we will all be surprised.

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frankthefork's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:09 pm

Thanks Gil...great sum as expected. If one is to expect the unexpected...than IMO the first Packer pick is a WR.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:14 pm

After last year, that will be unexpected. Let's see what happens. Thanks for the kind words about the article. It's always good to hear from you.

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stockholder's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:24 pm

I shouldn't have to expect the unexpected. We need fixes. Not a shell game. And thats exactly what it is with Gute. A shell game. I get the game has changed. I get roster strength. What I don't like is creating a hole and fixing it with a finger. Especially the middle one. But that is exactly what Gute has done. Players want a life after the NFL. They still want endorsements and need to feel their achievements were not in vein. Seems every time Gute says something. It has more to do with Public Relations then Direction. Truth be Damned. Sure the NFL has a business side. But I can't help but believe; that the players want to be are heroes, and management wants to win. I just don't feel thats what were seeing or hearing with Gute. It is what it is with him. Everyone wants their dreams to come true. Winning it at all costs, no longer seems to be the case.

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Turophile's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:41 pm

13-3
13-3
Now THAT'S good PR

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jannes bjornson's picture

April 30, 2021 at 12:13 am

No SB.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:45 pm

Thanks for the comment, stockholder. The entire Rodgers saga that broke this afternoon only makes what you said more urgent. Not happy with the situation but we'll see where this goes.

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TheKanataThrilla's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:22 pm

I think that there's a bit of organized chaos to the picks. There's a bit of a tendency to look at impending FA when it comes to the picks. I think that the pick will be Farley if he falls in the draft. I think we may get multiple DBs and WRs based on future need. I just hope that we don't reach for our guys. Lots of swings is my preference this year.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:45 pm

I like that theory, TheKanataThrilla. Now let's see if that's what they do. Thanks for the comment.

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packer132's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:24 pm

I am fine with most of the mock players except for Farley. Avoid him due to injury history, as too many other healthy players available.

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Lphill's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:34 pm

Rodgers not returning in 2021 ?

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frankthefork's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:35 pm

Breaking News and my heart...

Rodgers has reportedly been unhappy for a full year, since the Packers traded up in the first round last year to draft quarterback Jordan Love. Rodgers thought the Packers should have prioritized drafting players who could help him win another Super Bowl, not draft a quarterback who would take his place.

Another reason why I say Toney, Bateman or Marshall first. Defense will to take a back seat at picks 2-4.

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The_Justicar's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:53 pm

If the report is based on real info...just my take...Rodgers is selfish douche. Packers made him the highest paid qb in league history coming off some injury plagued sub par years with two years left on his contract. Didn’t need to do so at the time.

Moving forward a few years.,. I totally get being disappointed or angry they drafted a qb last year. But for someone supposedly incredibly intelligent and above it all...to pretend he understands the business side on how the nfl works with aging qbs...he can be an asshole. He is not bigger than the team. The contract he signed doesn’t really allow him to be traded due to massive cap issues. A grown mature man doesn’t take things like this so personal. I expect it of a 12 year old- take my ball and go home attitude.

I am tired of the Rodgers whiny I’m a primidona attitude. His only choice now would be to retire if he doesn’t want to play this year in Green Bay. Maybe get the jeopardy gig. If that is the case, he’d go on the retire or do not report list and we get all that cap money back which would be nice. Team would stink I’d think though I base that based off of Rodgers to Love drop off which never having seen Love play.

Don’t think I have ever joined the chorus of posts I’ve seen hammering Rodgers on here before but today’s info, if legit, pissed me off.

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:34 pm

I agree with everything you've said and feel much the same. This is BS.

Trade his ass out tonight, and it REALLY fucks up my mock drafts... !!! whoosh.... This is staggering. Lombardi would trade his ass out immediately. WOW.

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packer132's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:31 pm

You are spot on. Rodgers grew tired of playing for McCarthy, and who knows how many plays he changed at the line. He butted heads with LaFleur in 2019, and has handcuffed management from going after FA's with his $35 million salary. Brady is the smart one, playing for a decent amount but still being a team player and allowing others to take some of the pie. Rodgers holds a grudge for a year, as Packers needed to find a backup to groom for the future. It will be an interesting night at the draft. I guess Aaron never learned any common sense from the Brett Favre saga.

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Nate-1980's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:34 pm

Some of the dumbest comments I’ve heard, that’s some strong koolaid you guys have..Blame the gm and fo, this is entirely on them, I hope they’re fired..

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jannes bjornson's picture

April 30, 2021 at 12:17 am

Always see the man at the top of the silage.

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:46 pm

That's premature to say. He's not happy with the situation right now. Is that a negotiating ploy? Can it be fixed? We will soon find out.

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frankthefork's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:02 pm

I broke this rumor 3 weeks ago when I heard of some travels by GB FO and not just to scope out new blood; Oh boy did I get the thumbs down on inside info...but it's all speculation and jawing guys. I think the GB FO and board just likes to have all contingencies planned for and use weirdo scenarios run by an AI Bot Prog. just in case. Just covering the bases.

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:43 pm

Yeah. My apologies frank. I just couldn't imagine this stuff was real. IT IS. You were right.

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PeteK's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:07 pm

They all do some traveling this time of year especially with no combine, but this was sadly different.

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splitpea1's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:07 pm

Hopefully we will see an unexpected version of Gute where he stays vanilla or trades back to get an extra pick in the first four rounds.

Whatever he does, he needs to make an earnest effort this time to upgrade the weaker areas of the defense that have recently been plugged with somewhat uninspiring re-signings. Right now we need a solid OT prospect and a slot WR would be helpful; other than that, this is as good a time as any to stockpile defensive talent. Does anyone think that when Rodgers leaves, our new QB will be able to carry the team for a decade like he has?

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:47 pm

I agree with you splitpea1, defense is a priority and no, HOF QBs are hard to find and we've been lucky to get two back to back for nearly 30 years. Fingers crossed the Rodgers mess gets straightened out quickly.

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PeteK's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:46 pm

Just means another MVP season is on the way. I'm a bit disappointed in him because, he went through this and it took 3 yrs for him to replace Favre. It could be the same scenario. It was written that Murphy and Gute flew out at different times to speak to him. I wonder if it will affect the draft?

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:48 pm

I don't think it will change the draft much since they already selected Love last year. Maybe more pressure to add a WR early? We'll see. Thanks for the comment, PeteK.

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Alberta_Packer's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:58 pm

Done with cerebral overload. Sitting back and watching it all unfold for the next 3 days. Let the names begin!

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:49 pm

Here, here. Time for the speculation to end and for the draft to begin. Thanks for the comment, Alberta_Packer.

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SwedeBayPacker's picture

April 29, 2021 at 02:53 pm

Rodgers, dude... What the Hell...

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GilMartin's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:50 pm

Yeah, big time gut punch. We'll see where this goes. Thanks, SwedeBayPacker.

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NJ-RICK's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:00 pm

What the hell is going on in Packer land....? Adam Schefter is reporting Aaron Rodgers wants out of GB.... Is this more Fake News by the corrupt media...? Or is there some truth to this...? The Packers have had the best two QB's on the NFL for the past 25 years and what do they have to show for it only two Super Bowls. Many NFL analysts have agreed Packer MGT hasn't done enough to provide AR with the talent he needs to get back to the SB same reason Brett Farve was upset with Packer MGT as well. And why would this be reported now right before the draft...? Fake News at its best or the truth....?

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PeteK's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:40 pm

What happened to Favre after he left, NJ-Rick.

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:39 pm

It doesn't look good, Rick. Holy crap. Adam Schefter's report looks completely legit. Gutekunst had better trade him tonight so that he can retool this team.

The thing is, they've known for some time now, apparently. The news coming out today probably means they work a deal tonight. No other way around it, unless they want to pile drive the 2021 season into dust, waiting for...what???

Lombardi would send him out immediately.

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PeteK's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:51 pm

Apparently, they have offered a contract extension. We will know tonight before pick # 3 if he refused because if he did then he will be traded. Supposedly, Niners have offered Garappolo, #3, and more picks for him. Take the deal, trade down and get Chase and other. However, I just think Rogers used leverage to get an extension and all will be forgotten on our way to another SB. Just feels a bit cheesy, LOL

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SwedeBayPacker's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:52 pm

They realistically can't trade him right now because of the dead cap

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PeteK's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:13 pm

Again this is all speculation , but that's why Niners are offering so much.

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flackcatcher's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:48 pm

More like agent games on draft eve. I wouldn't worry about it too much. The reality of what is happening finally sunk in, and Rodgers is doing what every big time 'face of the NFL' would do. Scream to his agent, who promptly relayed to their favorite NFL 'reporter'. Aaron Rodgers is facing what we all face at one time. The End. Hurts like hell. One or two years makes no difference to him. He knows it's over for him in Green Bay. And let's be honest here, Rodgers has no one but himself to blame. His contract which he signed put Green Bay on a direct collision course with the Cap. Only Covid-19 moved up the timeline. The only way Green Bay beats the Cap is not to play. Which means letting Rodgers contract run its course. This was so big, that the executive committee might have made the final call, not Gutekunst or Murphy. So don't feel too bad for Aaron Rodgers, he got paid. It is a business after all.

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Alberta_Packer's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:34 pm

My first thought about hearing the news was "much ado about almost nothing." Well put - "agent games." This also could be A.Rs pre- mid life crisis - with a new, younger girlfriend, fatherhood ideations, game show host etc. Still a nice little melodrama until the next season of Bridgerton. Contractually, the Packers are in a good position - so if A.R. really wants to leave - he is certainly due a fond and sincere farewell.

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:41 pm

Being THAT disgruntled over the Love pick, when you're a year older than Favre was when they took YOU, AARON???? Unbelievable.

This is really sad. whoosh.

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SwedeBayPacker's picture

April 29, 2021 at 03:57 pm

Truly unbelievable. I'm dumbstruck. It's absolutely mind boggling.

Apparently they even offered him an extension on his contract. Holy crap, this is really bad.
With the draft coming up, this was supposed to be a good day...!

Is it time for Rodgers to... go pack, go?

...

I'll see myself out.

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Nate-1980's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:51 pm

Green he’s in better shape than Favre was and playing better football..He should be disgruntled.. You think it’s so easy to replace Rodgers haha, you’re in for a very rude awakening, but you asked for it by the support of our idiot gm.. Pass the koolaid, must be yummy..

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The_Justicar's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:08 pm

Does anyone know if his contract has any no trade clauses or limits it to certain teams or if Rodgers needs to give consent to which team he would be traded if indeed a trade is done? Unless the niners offered Bosa, Kittle, and the third overall pick they make a poor trade partner...they have no first round picks in 2022 and 2023. Teams like the Jets and Dolphins would make great trade partners with their abundance of high 1st and 2nd round picks in the next two drafts.

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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 29, 2021 at 08:12 pm

It looks like nobody in the media knows anything. Over and over they wrote that GB had automatic conversion rights on the roster bonus and did not need AR's permission to convert it to a signing bonus. So, we all assumed it was GB's decision to just pay it and not convert.

"It's [the roster bonus is] listed as an automatic conversion in Rodgers' contract, but even that has to be signed off on by both parties." ESPN, Shefter/Demovsky

Now apparently, they needed AR's cooperation. AND we still don't know which party declined to convert it to a signing bonus.

NEVERMIND.

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greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:08 pm

You know it, Swede. Wow.

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4zone's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:08 pm

Welcome to the NFL's REAL Super Bowl weekend. Strap yourselves in kidos, its going to be a bumpy ride! Game On Gute!

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porupack's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:19 pm

Aaron Rodgers does not want to return to Packers, per report;

WTF?? Looks like Rodgers decided to come out at the worst possible time and preclude any great options for GB. I think I don't like this guy anymore, though I defended him during other times he got a 'tude. I guess he's a pampered entitled guy with a vengence just trying to stick it to the packers. He forgot how he got drafted.

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4zone's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:35 pm

Trade him to the Jets. 2 1sts and a 2nd.

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PeteK's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:19 pm

Supposedly gave 3 teams:Niners, Raiders, and Broncos.

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stockholder's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:22 pm

You only had to look at Tim Boyle getting Dumped. And them giving Love the Back-up. (For Rodgers to want out.) Why should he bet against a staked deck. Gute drafted Love to get his money. Cap hell was all Gute saw. Blame Gute not Rodgers! He's earned everyones respect. Gute had a chance to fix the defense and it cost Pettine. why should Gute cost Rodgers everything he's earned.

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4zone's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:30 pm

Brady takes a fraction of what 'he's earned' so the teams he plays for can load up with talent. Don't see that with AR.

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Amy Berk's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:34 pm

Because his wife makes more money than Brady. Rodgers deserves to make top dollar. No one ever complains of the billions in revenue the owners make... I'm glad he's doing what he's doing except it will be hard to see this play out.

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Alberta_Packer's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:20 pm

Rodgers is already making top money. He also signed a legally-binding contract with the Packers. So exactly what is he doing?

4 points
4
0
SwedeBayPacker's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:36 pm

Brady gets paid "under the table" by his team hiring his questionable company for work.

1 points
1
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PeteK's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:23 pm

You make it sound like Brady's 27 mill is such a bargain.

0 points
0
0
Nate-1980's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:59 pm

Stockholder because they can’t blame the front office for anything even though they know deep down inside it’s all their fault.. Gute is a dunce, he just ruined this team..

2 points
2
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Coldworld's picture

April 29, 2021 at 06:16 pm

Yes, we were a great roster when Gute took over.

2 points
2
0
Coldworld's picture

April 29, 2021 at 06:14 pm

Pettine was the biggest problem. Contract matters would be Ball, maybe Murphy.

1 points
1
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Handsback's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:43 pm

I guess its time to pass the torch. Following is from a NFL scout...

"...Reports that Aaron Rodgers has told members of the organization he does not want to return to the Green Bay Packers is all about Rodgers contract status as he feels he’s not been respected.
Packers team president Mark Murphy, head coach Matt LaFleur and GM Brian Gutekunst have traveled to California to try to get Rodgers to change his mind in the past but it has become a story as Dunn is putting this information out through the media to put pressure on getting a new deal.
Gutekunst issued a statement insisting Rodgers remains a part of the team’s 2021 plans, while reports the team has offered to extend Rodgers’ contract. It would appear Rodgers’ smoldering resentment at the team’s Jordan Love pick in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft has not abated. Once again passing on pass-catching help in free agency surely did not help. Frankly, it is crazy the Packers are not considering dealing Rodgers. They have drafted his replacement and a 37-year-old coming off an MVP season will never be more valuable. The Pack wanted to plan for their post-Rodgers eventuality. If it’s not time to put it into motion now, when will it be?
The 49ers “reached out” about acquiring Aaron Rodgers on Wednesday but were rebuffed...."

4 points
5
1
greengold's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:48 pm

Yeah. The Packers have to scramble now to get their best deal done tonight... The kitchen got one hell of a lot hotter. WoW. This is crazy.

1 points
2
1
4thand1's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:50 pm

The 9ers have no 1st round picks for the next 2 years.

3 points
3
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packer132's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:41 pm

Ideally you would trade Rodgers to an AFC team, and not the Bears, Vikings, or 49 er's if an NFC team.

1 points
1
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 29, 2021 at 08:22 pm

Does that matter if AR isn't the QB for the Packers in 2021?

0 points
0
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packer132's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:41 pm

Ideally you would trade Rodgers to an AFC team, and not the Bears, Vikings, or 49 er's if an NFC team.

0 points
0
0
packer132's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:42 pm

Ideally you would trade Rodgers to an AFC team, and not the Bears, Vikings, or 49 er's if an NFC team.

1 points
1
0
packer132's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:42 pm

Ideally you would trade Rodgers to an AFC team, and not the Bears, Vikings, or 49 er's if an NFC team.

0 points
0
0
packer132's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:42 pm

Ideally you would trade Rodgers to an AFC team, and not the Bears, Vikings, or 49 er's if an NFC team.

0 points
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0
packer132's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:42 pm

Ideally you would trade Rodgers to an AFC team, and not the Bears, Vikings, or 49 er's if an NFC team.

-1 points
0
1
Lphill's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:42 pm

Gutenkist has ruined the Packers with the Love pick in more ways than one, I hope Rodgers walks away and we get to see what a disaster Jordan Love really is.

-4 points
5
9
4thand1's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:52 pm

We don't don't know what love brings to the table, he was a 1st round talent.

5 points
5
0
Lphill's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:04 pm

Apparently only to the Packers .

-6 points
1
7
stockholder's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:17 pm

Bulls eye!

-3 points
0
3
packerbackerjim's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:39 pm

Misdirected anger. Love had nothing to with this except getting drafted. I wish him every success.

9 points
9
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packerbackerjim's picture

April 29, 2021 at 07:08 pm

Duplicate

0 points
0
0
Swisch's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:51 pm

I've gotta think CheeseheadTV is going to have something on Rodgers in the next 10 minutes... right?

0 points
1
1
4thand1's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:53 pm

They're all drunk

3 points
3
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 29, 2021 at 08:26 pm

That's a helluva good idea. I average one alcoholic beverage per month, but I happen to be off today and tomorrow.

What would you have me write? I suppose we could link the ESPN article?

1 points
1
0
Packers0808's picture

April 29, 2021 at 04:53 pm

Here is an idea if Rodgers wants out spite trade him to the Cowboys, reunite with McCarthy!

2 points
3
1
ricky's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:11 pm

I will be so happy when the draft is over so we can talk about something new, rather than rehashing the same info (seemingly) endlessly. This is not a knock on anyone; it's just that we simply need something concrete to react to, rather than the "What if..." scenarios we've seen.

1 points
1
0
Lphill's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:24 pm

It would be nice if the Packers put out a statement but this is what happens when there is no owner to comment.

0 points
1
1
The_Justicar's picture

April 29, 2021 at 06:54 pm

Rodgers could comment easy enough,

0 points
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0
stockholder's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:15 pm

Jeopardy paid Alex Trebek 10 million a year. Why Stay when your GM won't go all in.

1 points
2
1
Alberta_Packer's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:23 pm

Why take a pay cut unless you have to?

2 points
2
0
stockholder's picture

April 29, 2021 at 06:12 pm

The show is taped in advance. Tough schedule if your in GB.

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

April 29, 2021 at 06:20 pm

One month a year per Rodgers. I think he could manage fairly easily.

0 points
0
0
Nate-1980's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:28 pm

Thanks to the crappiest gm in football for pissing off our best player and the only reason we win games.. How’s the smartest man in the room to all you koolaid drinkers now? He just ruined our franchise for years, yay !! IN GUTE WE BUST !! Say it with me.. I hope he gets fired after Aaron leaves, this is all on him, here comes the dark ages, and all of you but a handful here asked for it, time to reap what you sow..

2 points
7
5
The_Justicar's picture

April 29, 2021 at 06:56 pm

So Rodgers happiness is bigger than the future of the team? The GM should make only decisions that bring happiness and warm fuzzies to the sensitive qb? Nice take.

0 points
2
2
TarynsEyes's picture

April 29, 2021 at 05:44 pm

The writing was on the wall the moment GB selected Love last draft, The only issue for many in regards to the problems that created, was the invisible ink that many refused to believe wasn't invisible at all. I call this denial. Blind Optimist would call me a pessimist. I always knew what I was when it came to the Packers, how well do you optimist know yourselves now?

3 points
4
1
Since'61's picture

April 29, 2021 at 07:42 pm

At least 5 mistakes by the Packers in this AR situation:

1. They signed him to a huge contract when they didn't need to or at least not for the amount they offered.
2. Gute drafting Love in 2020 draft.
3. Gute not drafting a WR in 2020 or adding an FA WR in 2021
4. Gute not offering Rodgers a contract extension.
5. Gute not making a trade with the 49ers although he still has chance to get that done tonight.

Gute lied to everyone when he recently stated that Rodgers is our guy just a few days ago when he already knew this situation was going on. An absolutely clueless job by the Packers FO. Thanks, Since '61

-3 points
2
5
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 29, 2021 at 08:35 pm

Looks like the Wisconsin media missed this little story, by and large.

AR would be on his 2nd franchise tag in 2021.
I wrote Love is the biggest reason GB can't sign a FA.
ESPN indicates an extension was offered. No idea wherein the hitch lies.
Denver didn't take a QB.
LV still might. SF took Lance. IDK.

AR probably still was GB's choice to play QB in 2021. Lie? Not so much, more like an omission.

3 points
3
0
Since'61's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:17 pm

TGR I just read this at CBSSports online; "According to former ESPN anchor Trey Wingo, the Packers told Rodgers they would trade him this offseason and when they changed their mind, the QB became angry. "

If this comment is accurate is explains a lot. This could be why Rodgers salary was not converted into a bonus and why the Packers didn't over Rodgers an extension until recently.

This also makes it look to me like the Packers wanted to move on from Rodgers after the 2020 season. As I've posted before new regimes want their guys. They would rather lose with their guys than win an SB with the prior regime players.

Rodgers might not be a Packer by Monday or he may be around yet if this all blows over. We'll see.
Thanks, Since '61

1 points
1
0
Amy Berk's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:01 pm

Yes...Rodgers is the best quarterback who makes an average team look like an elite team. Matt lLeFluer is a top coach because of Rodgers. not the other way around.

Rodgers has a right to ask for an extension, get paid what he's worth but he could negotiate his contract to win but it doesn't sound like GM Gute wants to. He prefers 3rd place finishes times 4.

0 points
2
2
Since'61's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:19 pm

Well then Gute will have plenty of draft picks and plenty of cap space. The team will return to the 70s but Gute will be happy, which apparently is all that matters in Green Bay. Thanks, Since '61

1 points
1
0
flackcatcher's picture

April 29, 2021 at 11:52 pm

Shorter '61. " GET OFF MY LAWN".... :0(

1 points
1
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PackerBacker84's picture

April 29, 2021 at 06:57 pm

Is anyone talking about A-ARON WANTING OUT?!?!? RIGHT BEFORE THE DRAFT???!!!!

0 points
0
0
PackerBacker84's picture

April 29, 2021 at 06:58 pm

Sorry, I stumbled into this “PARTY” late.....

0 points
0
0
Rebecca's picture

April 29, 2021 at 07:38 pm

Packers will be picking at 4:00am tomorrow at this pace

0 points
0
0
SwedeBayPacker's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:41 pm

Well, it's 4:40 am where I'm at, and it's the 20th pick right now

2 points
2
0
Since'61's picture

April 29, 2021 at 07:52 pm

The Packers handling of Rodgers since Gute became GM is a case study in how to totally mishandle your most valuable employee, in this case MVP.

First, they offered him a huge contract when they had no reason to do so. Can't blame Rodgers for accepting the contract.
Second, drafting Love in the 2020 draft.
Third, failing to draft a WR during the 2020 draft while shoving his replacement in his face.
Fourth, failing to sign an FA Wr in 2021.
Fifth, not offering Rodgers a contract extension after his MVP season.
Sixth, failing to trade Rodgers to the 49ers while Gute had the chance, although he can still do so tonight but now he has lost his leverage with the 49ers.
Seventh, lying during his recent press conference telling everyone that Rodgers is our guy when he already knew that Rodgers was unhappy with his current situation in Green Bay.

Not sure how much of this is positioning, hype and speculation but the Packers look like a bunch of chocks at this point. Thanks, Since '61

1 points
2
1
Starrbrite's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:04 pm

We completely agree!

1 points
1
0
Since'61's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:25 pm

Starrbrite, I've been thinking that this could be exactly what Gute wanted all along. I just read this at CBS Sports online; "According to former ESPN anchor Trey Wingo, the Packers told Rodgers they would trade him this offseason and when they changed their mind, the QB became angry."

Now if this statement is accurate it mean that the Packers were ready to move on from Rodgers after the 2020 season. Also explains why they did not convert his 2021 salary to a bonus and why they did not offer an extension until recently.

New regimes want their guys and they want to see their new, shiny toys (Love) play ASAP. Now the problem is that Gute hasn't made a trade and Rodgers has called them out on it. Meanwhile Gute is telling the media that "Rodgers is our guy." Gute has really screwed the pooch on this. Maybe it will blow over, but I'm beginning to doubt it. Thanks, Since '61

1 points
1
0
Starrbrite's picture

April 29, 2021 at 10:10 pm

I have the same sentiments —this was scripted by Gutey.

0 points
0
0
Starrbrite's picture

April 29, 2021 at 08:04 pm

IMO, this dreadful. I believe ARod is the most talented QB ever. He is also smug, arrogant, and perhaps self-serving. I however do not care if he is any of those descriptions— he is the biggest reason the Packers continue to win. I never wring my hands over any of these things, but I fear we may have reaped the whirlwind.

0 points
1
1
Cwilly's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:28 pm

He’s already sank the franchise so I expect this to be a trade down tonight. Rodgers i repeat wants out and who can blame him. Be awesome for the hold out and to see exactly how good this team is. But the point is you’ve wasted 6 league mvps for two Super Bowls. It’s embarrassing and Brady leaves and gets another cuz his team plays win now just like his old. Packers franchise will go down as the biggest blunder in pro sports!

0 points
0
0
Dragon5's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:31 pm

Someone on this site has been warning for months "Packers will be in their enemy year in 2021."

hmmm...

What could go wrong?

-1 points
0
1
stockholder's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:46 pm

Rodgers had every right to demand a trade. I was hoping Murphy would get an offer for Gute. Lets shop him and see how he likes it.

-1 points
0
1
Dragon5's picture

April 29, 2021 at 09:53 pm

Gute, an OX, is a natural enemy of the franchise, a GOAT. Murphy takes the fall for the hire.

Enemy of the OX = GOAT
Green Bay Packer's founded GOAT year 1919
Pres Mark Murphy GOAT 1955
HC Matt LaFleur GOAT 1979
OC Nathaniel Hackett GOAT 1979
2/5 OL Bahktiari, Turner GOATs 1991
GM Brian Gutekunst OX 1973, 2021 GBP enemy

-1 points
0
1
Packers0808's picture

April 29, 2021 at 10:07 pm

Drinking much?

1 points
1
0