What observers say
“I hate to be an excuse guy, but we just need everyone healthy,” said Packers tight end Tucker Kraft, reflecting on the team’s struggles during the previous season. Kraft’s sentiment underscores a critical challenge for the Green Bay Packers as they head into the 2026 NFL season, a year that promises to be pivotal for the franchise.
Last season, the Packers faced a series of injuries that severely impacted their performance, culminating in a disappointing finish. They ended the season losing five straight games, which left them as the NFC’s No. 7 seed for the third consecutive year. Despite these setbacks, the Packers had shown promise earlier in the season, boasting a record of 9-3-1 before injuries took their toll.
Key players like Tucker Kraft, who suffered an ACL tear in Week 9, and defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt, who sustained season-ending leg and ankle injuries in Week 13, were among those whose absence was felt most acutely. Micah Parsons, another critical player, also faced injury challenges, tearing his ACL late in the season. “There was no point in the season where I felt like we weren’t a championship-caliber team. At no point in the year,” Parsons stated, highlighting the potential he believes the team possesses.
The Packers have their starter in Josh Jacobs and a capable third-down back in Chris Brooks, but they are still in search of a backup running back as they currently lack proven options on the roster. The 2026 NFL Draft class presents some intriguing running back prospects, though many come with their own set of flaws. With no first-round pick in the draft and limited activity in free agency, the Packers’ strategy will need to be carefully considered.
General manager Brian Gutekunst acknowledged the need to overcome injuries, saying, “I think you have to be able to overcome injuries, whatever those are, and we didn’t, certainly at the end of the season.” This statement reflects the urgency for the Packers to not only recover from past injuries but also to build a more resilient roster moving forward.
As the Packers prepare for the upcoming season, they are expected to welcome back several key players from injury. Kraft is projected to be about ten months post-surgery by Week 1, while Wyatt’s recovery is estimated at three to five months. Parsons, however, may miss three to four games at the start of the season. The return of these players could significantly bolster the team’s chances of success.
In a bid to stabilize the franchise, the Packers extended the contracts of head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst after the 2025 season. This move indicates a commitment to continuity and a belief in their leadership as they navigate the challenges ahead.
As the 2026 season approaches, the Green Bay Packers are at a crossroads. With a blend of returning talent and the need for strategic roster adjustments, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether they can transform last season’s disappointments into a successful campaign. Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific player acquisitions or draft strategies, but the organization is clearly focused on reclaiming its competitive edge.