2025 NFL Season Preview - Green Bay Packers
Football

2025 NFL Season Preview – Green Bay Packers

July 21, 2025
Devon Gallant

Welcome back to our 2025 NFL Team Preview Series, where we’ll dive deep into all 32 franchises ahead of the upcoming season. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a fantasy football manager, or just looking to get up to speed before kickoff, this series breaks down everything you need to know about each team’s trajectory.

For every team, we’ll cover:

  • Coaching Staff & Philosophy – Who’s leading the charge, and what kind of system are they running?
  • Offseason Recap – Key free-agent moves, trades, and draft picks that reshaped the roster.
  • Schedule Breakdown – Matchups to watch, tough stretches, and projected win-loss record.

From Super Bowl contenders to rebuilding rosters, we’ll assess where each team stands and what lies ahead in 2025.]

Green Bay Packers

Coaching Staff: Strategic Additions to Bolster Staff

The Green Bay Packers enter the 2025 season with a largely intact leadership structure under Head Coach Matt LaFleur, but with several strategic adjustments to his coaching staff aimed at injecting fresh perspectives and experience. LaFleur continues to lead an offensive-minded team that prioritizes efficiency, play-action, and a strong running game, to complement Jordan Love’s continued development.

Matt LaFleur remains the Head Coach, overseeing the overall direction and game planning of the offence. His successful tenure has solidified the Packers’ position as perennial playoff contenders. Adam Stenavich remains the Offensive Coordinator, continuing to orchestrate the potent Packers attack. However, a significant addition is Luke Getsy, who returns to Green Bay as a Senior Assistant. Getsy, a former Packers quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator, brings recent offensive coordinator experience from the Chicago Bears and Las Vegas Raiders, offering valuable insight and a familiar voice to the staff. Sean Mannion, who was an offensive assistant, has been promoted to Quarterbacks Coach, taking over from the retiring Tom Clements.

Defensively, Jeff Hafley enters his second season as Defensive Coordinator. To support him, the Packers made key hires. DeMarcus Covington, a former defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, joins as Defensive Line Coach/Run Game Coordinator, bringing a wealth of experience in building strong defensive fronts. Sean Duggan has been promoted to Linebackers Coach after serving as a defensive assistant.

2025 Offseason Recap: Roster Re-Tooling and Key Departures

The Green Bay Packers’ 2025 offseason was marked by a focused approach to retaining internal talent and making targeted external free-agent acquisitions, while also navigating some significant departures, particularly in the secondary. General Manager Brian Gutekunst aimed to build upon the team’s promising 2024 campaign with Jordan Love at the helm.

Key Extensions & Re-signings: 

  • Isaiah McDuffie (LB): Signed a two-year, $8 million contract, securing a reliable presence at linebacker and on special teams.
  • Brandon McManus (K): Signed a three-year, $15.3 million contract, ensuring stability at the kicker position.
  • John FitzPatrick (TE): Signed a one-year, $1.5 million contract, adding depth to the tight end room.
  • Exclusive Rights Free Agents (ERFA) Re-signed: S Zayne Anderson, WR Bo Melton, EDGE Arron Mosby, T Kadeem Telfort, P Daniel Whelan, and RB Emanuel Wilson were all tendered and re-signed, maintaining valuable depth.

Key Free-Agent Signings (Arrivals):

  • Aaron Banks (G): Signed a four-year, $77 million contract from the 49ers. Banks is expected to immediately step in as a starting guard, shoring up the interior offensive line.
  • Nate Hobbs (CB): Signed a four-year, $48 million contract from the Raiders. Hobbs is projected to be a key addition to the cornerback group, especially given some significant departures.
  • Mecole Hardman (WR): Signed a one-year, $1.5 million contract. Hardman adds a veteran speed element and punt/kick return ability to the receiving corps.
  • Isaiah Simmons (LB): Signed a one-year, $1.337 million contract, a versatile athlete who can contribute at linebacker and in sub-packages.
  • Kristian Welch (LB): Signed a one-year, $1.17 million contract, known for his special teams contributions.
  • Gregory Junior (CB): Signed a one-year, $1.03 million contract, adding more depth at cornerback.
  • Cameron Young (DT): Signed a one-year, $1.03 million contract, reinforcing the defensive line.

Notable Departures: 

  • Jaire Alexander (CB): Joined the Baltimore Ravens. This was a significant move, as Alexander had been a cornerstone of the Packers’ defence for years but had seemingly worn out his welcome in Green Bay.
  • AJ Dillon (RB): Signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, marking the end of the “Quadfather” era in Green Bay’s backfield.
  • Andre Dillard (OT): Signed with the San Francisco 49ers.
  • Josh Myers (C): Signed with the New York Jets, leaving a hole on the interior offensive line.
  • T.J. Slaton (DT): Signed with the Cincinnati Bengals.
  • Eric Wilson (LB): Signed with the Minnesota Vikings.
  • Eric Stokes (CB): Signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, further depleting the cornerback room.
  • Corey Ballentine (CB): Signed with the Indianapolis Colts.
  • Robert Rochell (CB): Signed with the Dallas Cowboys.

These departures underscore the Packers’ need to develop their young talent and integrate their new free-agent signings quickly, especially in a revamped defensive backfield.

2025 NFL Draft Class: Ending the WR Drought, Fortifying the Trenches

The Green Bay Packers’ 2025 NFL Draft class under General Manager Brian Gutekunst showed a clear strategy: providing more weapons for Jordan Love, significantly investing in the offensive line, and continuing to stock the defensive front. Notably, the Packers broke a two-decade-long streak in the first round.

Here’s the full list of the Green Bay Packers’ 2025 NFL Draft picks:

  • Round 1, Pick 23:Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
    • Analysis: The Packers finally selected a wide receiver in the first round, the first since Javon Walker in 2002. Golden brings elite speed (4.29 40-yard dash at the Combine) and refined route-running skills. He’s expected to be a vertical threat and a consistent target for Jordan Love.
  • Round 2, Pick 54:Anthony Belton, OT, NC State
    • Analysis: A massive and powerful offensive tackle, Belton provides crucial depth and future potential at a premium position. He could develop into a starter at either tackle or even guard, giving the Packers flexibility on their offensive line.
  • Round 3, Pick 87:Savion Williams, WR, TCU
    • Analysis: Adding another receiver, Williams brings a different dimension with his size and contested-catch ability. He also has potential as a kickoff returner, which is valuable under the new rules.
  • Round 4, Pick 124:Barryn Sorrell, ED, Texas
    • Analysis: A versatile edge rusher with a strong motor, Sorrell adds to the Packers’ pass-rushing depth. He’s known for his active hands and strength at the point of attack.
  • Round 5, Pick 159:Collin Oliver, ED, Oklahoma State
    • Analysis: Another athletic edge rusher, Oliver adds competition and rotational depth. He possesses good burst and bend, projecting as a situational pass-rusher.
  • Round 6, Pick 198:Warren Brinson, DI, Georgia
    • Analysis: Brinson provides further reinforcement to the defensive interior, bringing strength and a consistent motor against the run.
  • Round 7, Pick 237:Micah Robinson, CB, Tulane
    • Analysis: A late-round dart throw at cornerback, Robinson offers athleticism and a chance to develop into a rotational player or special teams contributor, addressing a position that saw significant departures.
  • Round 7, Pick 250:John Williams, T, Cincinnati
    • Analysis: Another offensive tackle in the later rounds, Williams adds developmental depth and competition to the offensive line group.

Key Draft Storyline: Weapons for Love, Offensive Line Fortification, and Defensive Front Depth

The Green Bay Packers’ 2025 NFL Draft was headlined by a long-awaited and highly anticipated move: the selection of a wide receiver in the first round. With Matthew Golden (WR, Texas) at pick 23, the Packers ended a 23-year drought, signalling a clear intent to surround quarterback Jordan Love with premium weapons. Golden’s elite speed and polished route-running generated significant buzz, with analysts noting his potential to immediately become a critical piece of the passing attack, especially with Christian Watson’s recent injury concerns. The emphasis on wide receiver talent continued in the third round with the addition of Savion Williams (WR, TCU), who offers a different physical profile and return ability.

Beyond the skill positions, Gutekunst invested heavily in the offensive line, a perennial strength for the Packers that faced questions after some offseason changes. The selection of Anthony Belton (OT, NC State) in the second round and John Williams (T, Cincinnati) in the seventh demonstrates a proactive approach to maintaining depth and future starters, especially after the departure of Josh Myers and Andre Dillard. Belton, a powerful tackle, is expected to compete for snaps early and eventually develop into a foundational piece.

On the defensive side, Green Bay continued to prioritize its defensive front, adding two edge rushers in Barryn Sorrell (Texas) and Collin Oliver (Oklahoma State) in the fourth and fifth rounds, respectively. These picks aim to bolster the pass rush rotation and add competition. Defensive tackle Warren Brinson further reinforces the interior. The late-round selection of cornerback Micah Robinson speaks to the need for depth in the secondary, which saw the surprising trade of Jaire Alexander along with other veteran departures.

Overall, the Packers’ draft strategy was a balance of providing immediate offensive upgrades for Jordan Love, ensuring the continued strength of their offensive line, and adding young, athletic talent to their front seven. This draft class is designed to keep Green Bay competitive and build for sustained success around their young core.

Offseason Summary: A New Era in the Secondary

The Green Bay Packers’ 2025 offseason will be remembered most for the bold and somewhat surprising release of star cornerback Jaire Alexander. This move, combined with other departures in the secondary like Eric Stokes, signals a significant shift in the defensive backfield and places immense pressure on new free-agent signing Nate Hobbs and the remaining young corners to step up. While the defence is now led by second-year coordinator Jeff Hafley, the personnel changes will test his ability to maintain a high level of play.

Offensively, the Packers aimed for continuity with key extensions and the addition of veteran Aaron Banks at guard, which should help mitigate the loss of Josh Myers on the interior offensive line. The biggest splash, however, came in the draft with the selection of Matthew Golden in the first round, ending a long-standing pattern and demonstrating the organization’s commitment to giving Jordan Love a full complement of weapons. The running back room also saw a change with AJ Dillon’s departure, paving the way for Josh Jacobs to command a larger share of the backfield carries.

The coaching staff saw strategic additions, most notably Luke Getsy returning as a Senior Assistant, which could provide valuable offensive insight, and DeMarcus Covington taking over the defensive line, aiming to improve the run defence and pass rush.

In short, the Packers are embracing change while maintaining their core identity. They’ve invested heavily in their offensive line and receiving corps to support Jordan Love’s continued ascent, while taking a calculated risk in overhauling parts of their secondary. The success of the 2025 season for Green Bay will largely depend on how quickly the new pieces on defence gel and how effectively the re-tooled offensive line protects Love, allowing him to utilize his expanded arsenal of targets.

2025 Schedule Breakdown & Win-Loss Prediction

The Green Bay Packers’ 2025 schedule presents a challenging path through a highly competitive NFC North and several tough inter-conference matchups.

  • Weeks 1–6: Immediate Tests and Primetime Showdowns
    • Week 1: vs. Detroit Lions 
    • Week 2: vs. Washington Commanders (TNF)
    • Week 3: at Cleveland Browns
    • Week 4: at Dallas Cowboys (SNF)
    • Week 5: BYE 
    • Week 6: vs. Cincinnati Bengals

Outlook: A brutal opening stretch with two divisional rivals, including the Lions at home, followed by two tough road tests against two teams looking to rebound after disappointing 2024 seasons. A much-needed early bye in Week 5 provides a reset before facing the Bengals.

Prediction: 3-2

  • Weeks 7–12: Cross-Conference & Divisional Grind
    • Week 7: at Arizona Cardinals
    • Week 8: at Pittsburgh Steelers (SNF)
    • Week 9: vs. Carolina Panthers 
    • Week 10: vs. Philadelphia Eagles (MNF)
    • Week 11: at New York Giants 
    • Week 12: vs. Minnesota Vikings

Outlook: A mix of winnable games and major challenges. Road trips to Arizona and New York offer opportunities, but the Steelers and Eagles (Monday night) are significant tests. A critical home divisional game against the Vikings caps off the midseason stretch.

Prediction: 4-2 (Overall: 7-4)

  • Weeks 13–18: Playoff Push & Divisional Deciders
    • Week 13: at Detroit Lions (TNF, Thanksgiving)
    • Week 14: vs. Chicago Bears
    • Week 15: at Denver Broncos
    • Week 16: at Chicago Bears
    • Week 17: vs. Baltimore Ravens
    • Week 18: at Minnesota Vikings 

Outlook: A demanding close to the season, with two games against the rival Bears, a crucial road game at Detroit on Thanksgiving, and a home matchup against the AFC powerhouse Ravens. The season ends with another divisional road game.

Prediction: 3-3

Final Record Prediction: 10-7

The Packers enter 2025 with high expectations after Jordan Love’s impressive 2024 campaign. While the schedule is tough, particularly early and late, the Packers’ offensive continuity under Matt LaFleur, combined with new weapons should keep them competitive. The biggest wildcard is the revamped secondary and how quickly the new pieces integrate. If the defence can hold its own, the Packers have the offensive firepower to contend for the NFC North title and a playoff seed. A 10-7 record reflects their continued growth and competitiveness in a tough conference.

Final Take: Momentum and Adaptation

Green Bay heads into the 2025 season with considerable momentum. Head Coach Matt LaFleur’s system is firmly in place, and the strategic additions to his coaching staff reflect a desire for continued improvement and fresh perspectives.

Offensively, the Packers are well-equipped. The commitment to providing Love with more weapons like Matthew Golden, alongside established talents like Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, and tight end Tucker Kraft, promises a high-scoring attack. The clear workhorse role for Josh Jacobs in the backfield provides a reliable ground game. The revamped offensive line, despite some changes, is crucial to this unit’s success.

The primary questions for Green Bay lie on the defensive side, particularly in the secondary, which underwent a significant overhaul. The performance of new arrivals like Nate Hobbs and the development of young draft picks will be critical for Jeff Hafley’s defence to maintain competitiveness. The continued emphasis on the defensive front, with more edge rushers and interior linemen drafted, aims to compensate for any secondary growing pains.

While the 2025 schedule presents considerable challenges, the Packers have demonstrated resilience and a capacity for growth. Their strong core, balanced approach to team building, and a quarterback on the rise position them as legitimate contenders in the NFC North and for a deep playoff run. The season will be a grind as always, but the Packers appear well-prepared to face it.

-Devon Gallant

Twitter: @DevGallant

Photo: Lordmontu. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.