At the NFL combine in Indianapolis, Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst confirmed that running back Josh Jacobs will return for the 2026 season, marking his third year with the team. Jacobs, under a four-year, $48 million contract, is slated to earn $11.5 million in 2026, though the Packers may look to renegotiate the deal, potentially requiring a pay cut. Gutekunst described Jacobs as
“a very important cog in what we’re trying to do here.”
Gutekunst also faced repeated questions regarding the August 28 trade for All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons, whose season was cut short by a torn knee in December. Despite the trade costing the Packers their first-round draft picks in both 2025 and 2026, Gutekunst insisted he has “no regrets” and remains “absolutely” confident in the decision. He highlighted Parsons’ rare ability to influence the game and impact winning, expecting the player to return stronger after recovery.
Micah Parsons’ Recovery and the Packers’ Long-Term Strategy
Following Parsons’ injury, the Packers experienced a five-game losing streak, including a wild-card playoff defeat to the Chicago Bears. Parsons indicated he hopes to be ready within the first month of the 2026 season. However, Gutekunst acknowledged the importance of protecting the team’s investment, even if it means delaying Parsons’ return.
“He calls me the ‘No Man,’ but yeah, we’ll kinda see,”
Gutekunst said, emphasizing the need to manage Parsons’ health carefully.
Impact of Rich Bisaccia’s Unexpected Exit
More than a month after the Packers’ season ended, assistant head coach and special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia surprised the organization by stepping down to pursue other opportunities. Despite ongoing challenges with special teams play, both Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur wanted Bisaccia to return. Gutekunst called his departure “a big loss” but did not specify what Bisaccia’s future plans involve.
In response, LaFleur has begun interviewing potential replacements. League sources have identified candidates such as Cam Achord (Giants), Tom McMahon (Raiders), Sam Sewell (Cardinals), and Kyle Wilber (Saints). Gutekunst noted the timing is difficult, as the Packers remain the only team with an opening for this position, leaving top candidates largely off the market. Still, this situation allows the team to proceed cautiously.
“Matt’s taking his time, being really thorough,”
Gutekunst said.
Packers’ Approach at the NFL Combine Without Early Draft Picks
With no first-round selections in the 2026 draft, the Packers’ evaluation process at the combine remains rigorous. Gutekunst described meetings with several high-profile prospects who might be selected in the first round or even the top 20, although the Packers’ earliest pick is No. 52 overall, the second-latest in the league following the Jaguars. Despite this, Gutekunst expressed confidence in the team’s ability to find quality talent later in the draft.
Discussion on the NFL’s “Tush Push” Rule Proposal
During the combine, NFL competition committee co-chair Rich McKay stated there is no expected effort to ban the “tush push” maneuver in the 2026 season. Gutekunst echoed this view and clarified that the Packers do not plan to resubmit a ban proposal and have not been contacted regarding it. This leaves the current status of the play unchanged for the upcoming season.
Significance for the Packers’ Future Outlook
Confirming Josh Jacobs’ return and reaffirming the Parsons trade underscores the Packers’ focus on building a competitive roster in the coming years, despite recent setbacks. The handling of Parsons’ recovery will be crucial for maintaining defensive strength, while the search for a special teams coordinator will influence overall team performance. With limited draft capital in early rounds, the Packers must rely on strategic scouting to fill roster gaps. These factors combine to shape a pivotal offseason for Green Bay as it aims to rebound after a disappointing finish and build toward sustained success.
