As we move further from the Ted Thompson era, the evolution of the Green Bay Packers under general manager Brian Gutekunst becomes increasingly evident. Thompson was known for his cautious approach to free agency, even during Aaron Rodgers' prime years. Gutekunst, however, has embraced a different philosophy, diving into the free-agent market with a focus on athleticism.
Gutekunst's approach to building the defense demonstrates a clear preference for versatile, athletic players. Unlike Thompson, who sometimes adjusted his strategy to fit specific defensive schemes, Gutekunst sticks to his blueprint.
This was evident when the Packers were using Mike Pettine’s blitz-heavy, 3-4 defense. Gutekunst brought in the Smith Brothers, whose size and strength would have fit seamlessly into the 4-3 schemes of the past.
Draft picks like Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness further illustrate this trend. Both were more accustomed to playing defensive tackle in college, yet Gutekunst envisioned them as stand-up edge defenders.
This might seem unconventional, especially when compared to a player like Micah Parsons, who fits the modern mold of an outside linebacker. But Gutekunst has shown confidence in his vision.
The strategy of prioritizing elite athletes with impressive size is not just a Packers philosophy; it’s a league-wide trend. Over 80% of NFL starters boast above-average Relative Athletic Scores, underscoring the importance of athletic prowess in today’s game. Gutekunst’s commitment to this approach suggests he’s building a team that values physical traits, banking on the belief that sticking to these principles will yield success.