The Green Bay Packers are entering an offseason filled with pivotal decisions that could significantly impact the future of the team. With a pressing need to strengthen certain positions and a roster full of potential changes, the Packers' management must navigate through a complex landscape. Among the critical decisions are the futures of center Jacob Monk, cornerback Jaire Alexander, and kicker Brandon McManus. These choices could shape the team's performance in the upcoming seasons.
Jacob Monk, a center drafted in the fifth round last year, didn't see action on offense as a rookie. Despite a promising start to his career in 2021 with 14 pass breakups and an interception, Monk has struggled to replicate that success, playing 1,175 snaps over 29 games since without any notable defensive statistics. Meanwhile, the Packers continue to search for defensive depth, specifically needing reinforcement behind Kenny Clark and Devonte Wyatt at the defensive tackle position.
Jaire Alexander, a two-time All-Pro cornerback, remains a significant focus for the Packers. With a potential $17.5 million salary next season, his injury-prone history complicates the decision-making process. General Manager Brian Gutekunst has publicly expressed his frustration with Alexander's inability to remain consistently healthy and available for play.
The Packers face a conundrum with 11 impending unrestricted free agents on their roster. Among them is kicker Brandon McManus, whose performance has been nothing short of stellar. McManus made 50 of 51 field goal and extra point attempts in 11 regular-season games with the team. His arrival in October stabilized a previously unstable kicking game following the departure of veteran Mason Crosby.
"If we were able to get Brandon back, I think certainly that would make me feel very, very, very good about that [specialist] group." – Brian Gutekunst
The need for stability extends beyond special teams. On the offensive line, the Packers have identified a need at center. Josh Myers has been a consistent presence, starting all 56 games since being drafted in 2021. Despite his reliability, the team must consider future options, especially with Myers having two years left on his four-year, $84 million contract extension.
Additionally, the Packers require certainty at right tackle. Zach Tom has emerged as a key player at the position, but his aspirations for top-level compensation pose a potential challenge. One option under consideration is moving Tom to center, which would allow Jordan Morgan, last year's first-round pick, to slot in as tackle.
Defensively, the Packers aim to solidify their lineup by adding depth at various positions. T.J. Slaton's performance as a defensive tackle was instrumental in revitalizing the team's run defense in 2024. However, further contributions are necessary to sustain this success.
Releasing Jaire Alexander could free up nearly $6.8 million in salary cap space for 2025, providing financial flexibility for other roster moves. However, such a decision requires weighing the potential impact on the team's defensive capabilities.
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