Packers’ Free Agency Gamble: Are They Doing Enough to Stay Competitive in 2025?

As the NFL’s 2025 free agency period unfolds, the Green Bay Packers have taken a measured approach, making some key moves but still leaving glaring needs on their roster as the first week draws to a close. While other teams have splashed in the market, Green Bay’s strategy appears more deliberate, raising the question: Is this the right move for a team hoping to stay competitive in the coming season?

A Modest Start to Free Agency

Free agency officially began on March 12, 2025, marking the start of the new league year. The Packers’ activity in the first week has been relatively subdued. Unlike teams that have splurged on big-name talent, the Packers have focused on filling gaps without overhauling their roster. It’s clear they are balancing their free agency efforts with an eye toward the 2025 draft, but fans are left wondering whether this approach is enough to keep the team competitive in a league that seems to get stronger every season.

Notable Moves and Key Signings

The Packers have made several moves that should bolster their roster heading into 2025. The most significant transaction was the signing of Aaron Banks, a guard from the San Francisco 49ers, to a four-year, $77 million contract. This addition provides flexibility for their offensive line and a potential solution to one of the team’s most pressing concerns — strengthening the line to protect their young quarterback and improve the running game.

Additionally, Green Bay secured Nate Hobbs, a cornerback from the Las Vegas Raiders, on a four-year, $48 million deal. Hobbs, primarily a slot corner, offers valuable depth to a secondary that struggled at times during the 2024 season. Meanwhile, they also brought in Brandon McManus, a kicker, to a three-year, $15.3 million deal, ensuring stability in the special teams unit after a rocky year with Anders Carlson.

The Packers also made sure to retain one of their own, re-signing linebacker Isaah McDuffie to a two-year, $8 million deal. McDuffie, who started every game in 2024, provides crucial continuity in the linebacker corps, especially given the team’s need for reliable depth.

Departures and Gaps to Fill

While the Packers were able to bring in fresh talent, they’ve also seen some key players leave. Most notably, starting center Josh Myers signed with the New York Jets, creating an immediate gap at the center position. The Packers also lost defensive lineman T.J. Slaton, who signed with the Cincinnati Bengals, further depleting their defensive front.

These departures underscore the need for additional reinforcements, particularly on the offensive line and in the defensive line. Green Bay’s focus on these positions will be critical to ensuring they remain competitive in the NFC.

The Free Agent Landscape: What’s Next for Green Bay?

The Packers entered the offseason with 18 players facing expiring contracts. While they’ve already addressed some areas of concern, others still loom large. The center position, now vacant after Myers’ departure, stands out as a pressing need. The Packers may opt to move Elgton Jenkins from guard to center, a position he’s played in the past, but this could create new challenges. If they decide against this move, they may need to target an experienced center like Drew Dalman from the Atlanta Falcons.

Beyond that, the Packers’ defensive line depth remains a priority. With the loss of Slaton, strengthening the defensive front should be a focus in the next phase of free agency. If they fail to make additional moves, it could leave them vulnerable, especially against high-powered offenses in the NFC.

Looking Ahead: A Delicate Balance

Green Bay’s approach to free agency in 2025 has been a gamble. The signings of Banks, Hobbs, and McManus will certainly help shore up key areas, but the Packers still have holes to fill. With significant losses at center and defensive line, as well as lingering questions about their offensive line depth, the team’s success in free agency moving forward will determine how competitive they will be in the upcoming season.

In a league where success often hinges on the ability to make the right roster moves, Green Bay’s quiet approach could either pay off or backfire. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Packers continue to navigate this critical period, hoping that their modest strategy ultimately sets them up for success in 2025.