“I hate to be an excuse guy, but we just need everyone healthy,” said Tucker Kraft, a sentiment that resonates deeply within the Green Bay Packers organization as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 NFL season. The Packers, who finished the previous season with a disappointing record, are looking to bounce back after a series of injuries that plagued their roster.
Last season, the Packers were unable to maintain their momentum, finishing with a record of 9-3-1 before injuries took their toll. They lost five straight games to end the season, culminating in a wild-card exit for the third consecutive year. The injuries to key players such as Kraft, who tore his ACL in Week 9, and Devonte Wyatt, who suffered season-ending leg and ankle injuries in Week 13, were particularly damaging. Zach Tom also faced a season-ending knee injury in Week 15, leaving the team scrambling for depth.
Despite these setbacks, the Packers have retained their core leadership by extending the contracts of head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst after the 2025 season. Gutekunst acknowledged the challenges posed by injuries, stating, “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 recognition of the team’s struggles is crucial as they look to rebuild and strengthen their roster.
The Packers have secured a reliable starter in Josh Jacobs and a capable third-down back in Chris Brooks. However, they are still in search of a backup running back, as their current roster lacks proven options. The 2026 NFL Draft class presents some intriguing prospects, but many come with their own set of flaws, complicating the Packers’ decision-making process.
As the team prepares for the new season, they are optimistic about the return of key players. Kraft is expected to be back on the field approximately 10 months post-surgery by Week 1, while Wyatt’s recovery time is projected to be around 3-5 months. Micah Parsons, who also suffered an ACL tear late last season, anticipates missing 3-4 games at the start of the season but remains confident in the team’s potential. “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 remarked, highlighting the belief in the team’s capabilities despite their struggles.
The Packers’ recent history under LaFleur has been marked by playoff disappointments, with two straight years ending in the wild-card round. The franchise’s inability to advance further has raised questions about their playoff strategy and roster depth. As they look ahead, the return of key injured players could provide the boost needed to change their fortunes.
With the 2026 season on the horizon, the Packers must navigate the challenges of free agency and the draft without a first-round pick. Their focus will be on building a resilient team capable of overcoming the adversity they faced last season. As the offseason progresses, the Packers’ management will need to make strategic decisions to ensure they are competitive in a tough NFC landscape.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific strategies the Packers will employ to bolster their roster. However, the return of injured players and the potential for new talent through the draft could set the stage for a more successful campaign in 2026.
