2018 Key Additions: Even though there’s a new general manager (Brian Gutekunst) in “Titletown,” the Green Bay Packers’ philosophy of staying somewhat conservative when it comes to free agency hasn’t really changed. The club did grab defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson (New York Jets) and also signed tight end Jimmy Graham away from the Seattle Seahawks. Mike McCarthy’s team changed coordinators this offseason as Joe Philbin returns to help the offense and defensive mind Mike Pettine takes over for Dom Capers. And for the second consecutive year, the Packers used their first two picks in the draft (Jaire Alexander and Josh Jackson) on secondary help.
Offseason Review: Although there was a change when it came to the general manager for this franchise during the offseason, the Packers’ philosophy of relying more on draft choices and less on free agency continued. Yes, the club added Wilkerson and Graham and both will prove to be solid pickups. But this is still a franchise that relies on the development of its younger players. Bringing back Philbin and replacing Capers with Pettine could prove to be two very advantageous moves. And we know what this team is capable of offensively if Rodgers can stay upright in 2018. But the defense is still in need of some fine-tuning.