NFL Coaching & Front Office Tracker: Bears Make a Move, Packers Talk Roster Flexibility, Vikings GM Search Heats Up
As the NFL offseason gets rolling, coaching staffs and front offices across the league are already taking shape for 2026. From Chicago's backfield to Minnesota’s front office, and Green Bay’s roster evaluations, there’s plenty to unpack.
Bears Bring in Eric Studesville to Lead RB Room
The Bears are turning to a seasoned voice to guide their running back corps. Eric Studesville, a longtime NFL running backs coach, is joining Chicago’s staff in the same role. He replaces Eric Bieniemy, who held the position previously.
Studesville’s most recent stop was in Miami, where he helped develop a dynamic backfield. Known for his ability to maximize talent and bring consistency to the run game, he brings over two decades of NFL experience to a Bears offense looking to establish a tougher identity on the ground.
Packers: Gutekunst Talks Roster, Free Agency, and Coaching Changes
General Manager Brian Gutekunst had plenty to say about the Packers’ current state and what lies ahead this offseason.
On Free Agency & Roster Flexibility:
Gutekunst expressed confidence in the team’s ability to make moves this offseason, noting that much will depend on internal roster decisions.
“I feel really good,” he said. “I believe we have the flexibility to do what we need to do.”
That flexibility will be key, especially after a season that saw the team drop five straight games. Gutekunst admitted that no final decisions have been made yet on specific players.
Injury Updates & Player Outlooks:
The GM expects guard Aaron Banks and cornerback Nate Hobbs back in the fold next season, which would be a boost to both lines of scrimmage. As for edge rusher Rashan Gary, Gutekunst praised his early-season production: “He started out really, really strong… 60-some pressures and 7.5 sacks - that’s pretty good production in the NFL.”
Offensive Line Versatility:
When asked about where linemen fit best, Gutekunst made it clear that performance trumps preference: “I don’t really care where guys think they’re better at. When they’re in there, they need to perform.”
Contract Talks & Player Futures:
Tight end Tucker Kraft remains a priority. Gutekunst noted ongoing conversations with Kraft’s representatives and emphasized his value both on the field and in the locker room.
Quarterback Malik Willis is another name to watch. While the team would like to retain him, Gutekunst acknowledged that Willis may have better opportunities elsewhere to see the field.
And then there’s Josh Jacobs. The veteran running back is still viewed as a key piece moving forward. “He’s an important part of our football team and has a lot of good years left,” Gutekunst said.
Coaching Staff Changes:
The Packers are bringing in Penn State wide receivers coach Noah Pauley to fill the same role in Green Bay.
That move comes as Ryan Mahaffey exits the organization. Mahaffey isn’t out of work long - he’s headed to Philadelphia, where he’ll serve as the Eagles’ run game coordinator and tight ends coach.
Vikings GM Search: 12 Names in the Mix
Minnesota’s search for a new general manager is in full swing, and it’s a wide-ranging list. After parting ways with Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, the Vikings are casting a broad net, with a dozen candidates reportedly under consideration.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the notable names:
- Rob Brzezinski (Vikings EVP of Football Ops): Well-regarded internally, especially by coaches, but there’s some question whether ownership sees him as more valuable in his current cap management role.
- George Paton (Broncos GM): A familiar face in Minnesota, having spent over a decade with the team. The challenge? Whether Denver’s leadership is willing to let him walk.
- Ed Dodds (Colts Assistant GM): Known for his sharp scouting eye, though there are questions about how he’d handle the pressures of leading a high-expectation building.
- John McKay (Rams Assistant GM): A younger option with ties to head coach Kevin O’Connell. If O’Connell backs him, that could carry significant weight.
- Ryan Cowden (Patriots VP of Player Personnel): His close relationship with Mike Vrabel - a friend of O’Connell’s - could help his candidacy.
- Jeff King (Bears Senior Director of Player Personnel): Has a connection with Vikings QBs coach Josh McCown from their playing days.
- Andy Weidl (Steelers Assistant GM): Built much of his executive résumé under Howie Roseman in Philadelphia.
- Reed Burckhardt (Broncos Assistant GM): A close ally of Paton and familiar with the Vikings’ current structure.
- Trey Brown (Bengals Assistant GM): Cut his teeth as a scout during the Patriots’ dynasty years.
- Trent Kirchner (Seahawks VP of Player Personnel): One of John Schneider’s top lieutenants in Seattle.
- Matt Berry (Seahawks VP of Player Acquisition): Has a strong scouting background, particularly in college evaluation.
- Ray Agnew (Lions Assistant GM): Could bring a culture shift with a no-nonsense, old-school approach to team-building.
Front Office Support Coming In:
In the meantime, the Vikings are bringing in NFL salary cap executive Matt Thomas as a football administration consultant through April’s draft. His role is designed to ease the workload on Brzezinski, who’s been handling football operations on an interim basis since the GM departure.
Bottom Line:
The NFC North is already buzzing with offseason activity. The Bears are betting on experience in the backfield, the Packers are juggling roster decisions and staff changes while keeping core talent in focus, and the Vikings are deep into a pivotal GM search that could shape the franchise’s direction for years to come.
Strap in - this offseason is just getting started.