The Green Bay Packers are entering a pivotal offseason following their 31-27 wild-card loss to the Chicago Bears on January 13, 2024. The defeat has raised significant questions regarding the futures of head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst, both of whom are under contracts that extend through the end of the 2026 season.
In the early weeks of the 2022 offseason, LaFleur and Gutekunst, along with vice president and director of football operations Russ Ball, received contract extensions that were kept largely under wraps until shortly before training camp. The motivations behind the previous administration’s decision to maintain secrecy remain unclear, particularly given the success both have enjoyed. Since Gutekunst’s appointment in 2018, the Packers have compiled a record of 45-19-1, including a remarkable 39-10 mark under LaFleur, who was hired in 2019.
This year’s playoff exit has put LaFleur’s position in jeopardy, especially with Ed Policy stepping in as team president after the departure of former president Mark Murphy. Policy’s approach to management could significantly influence the decisions surrounding LaFleur and Gutekunst.
The Packers’ inability to secure a victory in the playoffs marks the second consecutive year they have exited in the first round. Despite making the playoffs in six of LaFleur’s seven seasons, the team has not won the NFC North since 2021 and has not hosted a playoff game since their loss to the San Francisco 49ers on January 22, 2022.
LaFleur’s contributions included revitalizing quarterback Aaron Rodgers, leading him to two MVP awards in 2020 and 2021. He is now tasked with developing Jordan Love, who appears poised to take over as the franchise quarterback. The upcoming offseason will be crucial in determining the direction of the team, especially in light of Policy’s previous statements regarding contract security for key leadership.
In a press conference before the season, Policy expressed a preference for avoiding “lame-duck” status for coaches and general managers. He acknowledged that while some situations may warrant it, he would generally prefer to have leaders secure in their roles. As the season progressed, the pressure mounted on LaFleur, particularly after a series of losses that dropped the Packers’ record to 5-3-1. LaFleur maintained focus on daily responsibilities, stating, “You can’t ever exhale. You gotta always be pushing.”
Policy has taken a largely observational role this season, providing limited insights into his thoughts on the team’s performance. In his most recent communication, he noted the team’s resilience amidst injuries and a challenging schedule, highlighting their potential to compete for a Super Bowl title.
While LaFleur and Gutekunst are not necessarily tied together in any decision, there is speculation that Policy may retain one without the other. Gutekunst’s position appears relatively secure, particularly following his successful trade for edge rusher Micah Parsons. Insiders suggest that if Gutekunst remains, he may gain increased authority in football operations, potentially restoring the power dynamic that existed prior to Murphy’s tenure.
There are numerous scenarios that could unfold regarding LaFleur’s future. He might be offered a lucrative extension that aligns him with the highest-paid coaches in the NFL, or he could settle for a short-term agreement that extends his contract by one or two years. Alternatively, if Policy opts not to act, LaFleur may leverage his position to seek opportunities elsewhere.
The possibility of LaFleur’s departure is not far-fetched. He could face termination, agree to a mutual parting, or even be traded, a move that could allow the Packers to recoup a first-round draft pick following recent trades. Should LaFleur enter the coaching market, he would likely be a high-profile candidate for any vacancies.
LaFleur’s tenure has produced a 76-40-1 regular-season record, ranking him among the top coaches in the league by winning percentage. However, his postseason record raises concerns, with only one victory in five playoff games. The past four regular seasons have seen the Packers at 37-30-1, and LaFleur’s ability to navigate the leadership challenges ahead will be critical for the team’s future.
As the offseason unfolds, the pressure will mount for Policy to make decisive moves regarding the leadership of the Packers. Both LaFleur and Gutekunst are at a crossroads, and the decisions made in the coming weeks will not only impact their careers but also shape the Packers’ trajectory in the years to come. Sources close to the organization anticipate a swift resolution, contrasting with the previous lack of transparency surrounding their contracts.
