Packers brace for 2026 cap crunch and a new defensive look
At the combine, Gutekunst warned that the Packers are already over the 2026 cap and must create space—likely via releases or pushing some costs into future years—while also planning extensions to stay competitive. He stressed sustainability and chasing a championship without piling up debt. The team is targeting upgrades at center and nose tackle and appears to be aligning with a 3-4/quarters defensive look under Jonathan Gannon, which could reshuffle inside linebacker and cornerback roles for 2027.
