The Green Bay Packers have made the playoffs the last two seasons with quarterback Jordan Love under center. There is a lot to like about this young team, but they took a step backward last season. Despite going 11-6 and making the playoffs, the team struggled against the best teams in the league. They went 1-5 in the division and lost to the Eagles twice, once in the regular season and once in the playoffs. One area they needed some upgrades in was the offensive line, and they got one. The Packers have signed former San Francisco 49ers guard Aaron Banks to a four-year deal.
Green Bay Packers Sign OG Aaron Banks
ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, the Green Bay Packers beat reporter, reports the deal is for four years and worth up to $77 million. The 27-year-old guard was one of the top free agents on the market, and general manager Brian Gutekunst was able to bring him to Green Bay. Banks will make $19.25 annually. After being a reserve player in his rookie year, the former Notre Dame prospect started 43 games over the past three years. Last season, he started 13 games at left guard.
This is a massive upgrade on the offensive line. The Green Bay Packers already had a solid line but lacked any kind of depth. In their playoff loss, Elgton Jenkins went down with an injury, and the dropoff in play was noticeable. Love was under more pressure, and the team struggled to run the ball. The Packers now have more depth and a proven starter they can add to the rotation. Furthermore, they have many players who can play multiple positions, meaning some positions could be shuffling.
2025 Outlook
The Green Bay Packers already have a solid team. They aren’t losing too many free agents that made a huge impact on the team last year. However, they do have some glaring holes, especially on defense. Cornerback is a huge need as the team is looking to move on from All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander but has failed to find a trade partner. Defensive tackle is also an area of concern as TJ Slaton has reportedly agreed to a deal with the Bengals.
There is still plenty of free agency left. We’ve only just begun. Furthermore, the team has been able to find great value in the draft. Last season, they had two members of the defense make the All-Rookie team. It comes down to the team playing better as well. Love looked off all year, and three of the Packers’ receivers were in the top 20 in the league in drops. If they can shore up the mistakes, this team should easily compete for a playoff spot again in the NFC.
