Packers Coaching Moves Signal Strategic Shifts on Both Sides of the Ball
The Packers are in the midst of a subtle but potentially significant reshuffling of their coaching staff, and it starts with a familiar face. With Sean Mannion heading to Philadelphia to take over as offensive coordinator, Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur now has an opening in the quarterbacks room.
One name that makes a lot of sense to fill that void? Luke Getsy.
Getsy, currently serving as the team’s senior offensive assistant, has a long-standing history with the quarterback position. He’s worked closely with signal-callers in Green Bay before, and his familiarity with LaFleur’s system-and with the quarterbacks on the roster-makes him a logical candidate to slide into that role. It’s a move that would keep continuity in a critical area, especially as the Packers continue to develop their young quarterback talent.
On the defensive side, the Packers are expected to bring in Daniel Bullocks, currently the 49ers’ defensive backs coach, to join new defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon’s staff. Bullocks has built a reputation for developing secondary talent and helping young DBs thrive in complex schemes-something that should pair well with Gannon’s aggressive, modern defensive approach. If this hire is finalized, it would be a strong addition for a defense looking to take the next step.
Vikings Draft Strategy: Pass Rush Over Corner?
As the NFL Draft approaches, speculation is swirling around the Vikings’ plans for the 18th overall pick. While many draft analysts have pegged Minnesota as a team likely to target a cornerback early, there’s growing buzz that the front office could pivot toward bolstering the pass rush instead.
That wouldn’t be entirely out of character. The Vikings have invested heavily in their front seven in recent years, and with the NFC North boasting some high-powered offenses, adding another edge presence could be a strategic move to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. Names haven’t been linked yet, but there’s no shortage of intriguing pass rushers projected to be available in that mid-first-round range.
Later in the draft, keep an eye on tight end. Minnesota has had success finding value at the position on Day 3 in the past, and Ohio State’s Will Kacmarek is a name that’s reportedly on their radar. The Vikings have been known to prioritize versatility and toughness at tight end, and Kacmarek fits that mold.
Justin Jefferson Reflects on Vikings’ QB Struggles, Darnold’s Super Bowl Run
Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson has been one of the more vocal leaders in the locker room all season, and he’s stood by rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy through the ups and downs of a challenging year. But as the season wraps and the Super Bowl looms, Jefferson opened up about what could have been-specifically, if Sam Darnold had remained in Minnesota.
“Everyone knows the difficulty of the quarterback position this year, how we were dealt it,” Jefferson said. “But having a quarterback that already had a season under his belt with us, knew the plays, knew the playbook, knew the players, throwing to me, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, all these guys, I definitely feel like we would have done better.”
It’s a candid admission from one of the league’s top receivers, and it speaks to the frustration that comes with a season full of instability under center. Darnold, now leading Seattle to the Super Bowl, has found his footing after years of being doubted-and Jefferson, while clearly wishing that resurgence had happened in purple and gold, isn’t bitter.
“I love that he’s in the Super Bowl. I’m happy for him, I want nothing but the best for him,” Jefferson added.
“Especially the way his journey was at first, people doubting him and people not giving him the respect. Now they’re giving him the respect.
Now they’re seeing that he’s a top-tier quarterback in this league.”
Jefferson even went as far as to say he’s rooting for Seattle in the big game, a show of support for a former teammate whose career arc has taken a dramatic turn. “Of course, selfishly I wish he had done that for us last year,” Jefferson admitted. “But to see him blossom and bounce back right after last year and make it this year, I’m happy for him and I hope he wins.”
It’s a bittersweet moment for the Vikings and their fans. While the team looks ahead to a pivotal offseason, one of their former quarterbacks is preparing for the biggest game of his life. And for Jefferson, that’s a reminder of what could’ve been-and maybe, what still could be, if Minnesota can find its answer at quarterback.