Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst wrapped up the 2023 season by answering questions for roughly 30 minutes inside Lambeau Field. His young team — led by Matt LaFleur and Jordan Love — went 9-8 and advanced to the divisional round of the playoffs during a rollercoaster but exciting season.
Here are the highlights from Gutekunst’s season-ending press conference:
— Gutekunst said he’s “excited to build around” Jordan Love moving forward.
— Any consideration to trading Jaire Alexander: “No.” Said he is proud of the way Alexander responded to Week 17 suspension.
— Believed Anders Carlson was “by far” the best option at kicker for the Packers. Excited about where he’s headed.
— On wanting Aaron Jones back: “Absolutely.” Called Jones a “difference maker ” on the field, an “influential leader” in the locker room and the “heartbeat of the team.”
— Confirmed the Packers and Love’s representation will move forward on contract negotiations over the next few months. Said an extension is important for the “stability” of the team.
— Not expecting major shift in what Packers want in defensive players under Jeff Hafley. NFL is still mostly a 4-2-5 nickel defense.
— On free agency/cap situation: “We’re getting to a little bit better spot.” Feels good about team’s spot going into free agency and the ability to add players if need be.
— On Love: Proud of the way he went through his first season as a starter. Learned how to play the position at the line of scrimmage and led teammates in games. “He’s got very, very high upside.”
— Expecting 11 draft picks. Thinks they’ll have “more volume at the top,” which should allow more flexibility. Included possibility of using picks to acquire veteran players in trades.
— On Rasheed Walker: “He did a great job. You have to give that kid a lot of credit.” Said he fought through some injury things and was a “warrior” in 2023. Thinks he can play on the left and right side. Wants more competition in the offensive line. “Has a bright future.”
— On Zach Tom: “He played really well at right tackle this year.” Can play all five spots, can be good at all five spots. Says Packers want the best five for the offensive line.
— On Jeff Hafley’s defense: Believes versatility — especially in the defensive front — will pay off with a defensive coordinator change. Hafley’s influence will have “some” effect on personnel but not substantial.
— On Christian Watson: Said he’s an “impactful player.” Packers looking into ways of helping Watson and others staying on the field. Says some young players need time to get into a groove with their process.
— On safety: “Pretty solid at safety” in the draft/free agency class. Need to “add numbers” at safety. Important position in today’s game.
— Said Packers have Super Bowl expectations in 2024 but that isn’t new. Thought Packers were going to the Super Bowl before late collapse in San Francisco.
