Posted on Jan 17

Packers aiming to extend contracts for LaFleur, Gutekunst before lame-duck season

Posted Jan 17, 2026

The Green Bay Packers are negotiating contract extensions for both head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst as they seek stability heading into the upcoming season.

Why it matters: With both LaFleur and Gutekunst entering the final year of their contracts, extending their deals could provide essential continuity for a team transitioning away from franchise icon Aaron Rodgers to quarterback Jordan Love.

LaFleur has led the Packers to a 76-40-1 record since his hiring in 2019 and has made the playoffs in six of seven seasons.
Gutekunst, who has been with the organization since 1999, took over as GM in 2018 and orchestrated the significant trade that sent Rodgers to the New York Jets in 2023.

What’s new: According to sources close to the negotiations, progress is being made, and there is optimism that both extensions will be finalized soon.

Packers president Ed Policy expressed a desire to avoid having "a lame-duck coach," highlighting the importance of securing LaFleur's future as the team embarks on a new chapter with Love at the helm.

Yes, but: Despite the solid track record under LaFleur, the absence of a Super Bowl appearance during his tenure raises questions about the team's trajectory.

Since the 2020 season, the Packers have not reached a conference championship game, and last year's disappointing wild-card loss to the Bears underscores the challenges ahead.

What to watch: As negotiations unfold, attention will shift to how these extensions impact the Packers’ approach to roster building and coaching philosophy, particularly with an untested quarterback leading the offense.

Given the high stakes, the Packers must balance the urgency for success with the realities of a rebuilding phase following the departure of a generational talent like Rodgers.

Zoom In: LaFleur’s offensive scheme has often utilized elements from the West Coast and spread offenses, focusing on quick, precise passing and a versatile running game.

The integration of Love within this framework, alongside key players like running back Aaron Jones and wide receiver Christian Watson, will be critical in determining the team’s success moving forward.

The bottom line: Securing contract extensions for LaFleur and Gutekunst would signal the Packers' commitment to a cohesive vision as they adapt to the evolving dynamics of their roster and the competitive landscape of the NFL.

Packers aiming to extend contracts for LaFleur, Gutekunst before lame-duck season

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 17, 2026

The Green Bay Packers are negotiating contract extensions for both head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst as they seek stability heading into the upcoming season.

LaFleur has led the Packers to a 76-40-1 record since his hiring in 2019 and has made the playoffs in six of seven seasons.

Gutekunst, who has been with the organization since 1999, took over as GM in 2018 and orchestrated the significant trade that sent Rodgers to the New York Jets in 2023.

What’s new: According to sources close to the negotiations, progress is being made, and there is optimism that both extensions will be finalized soon.

Packers president Ed Policy expressed a desire to avoid having "a lame-duck coach," highlighting the importance of securing LaFleur's future as the team embarks on a new chapter with Love at the helm.

Yes, but: Despite the solid track record under LaFleur, the absence of a Super Bowl appearance during his tenure raises questions about the team's trajectory.

Since the 2020 season, the Packers have not reached a conference championship game, and last year's disappointing wild-card loss to the Bears underscores the challenges ahead.

Given the high stakes, the Packers must balance the urgency for success with the realities of a rebuilding phase following the departure of a generational talent like Rodgers.

Zoom In: LaFleur’s offensive scheme has often utilized elements from the West Coast and spread offenses, focusing on quick, precise passing and a versatile running game.

The integration of Love within this framework, alongside key players like running back Aaron Jones and wide receiver Christian Watson, will be critical in determining the team’s success moving forward.