ESPN Publishes 3 Concerning Words About Green Bay Packers’ 2026 Offseason So Far: “Run it back”

The Green Bay Packers’ 2026 offseason has already raised some concerns among fans and analysts alike. With a fresh start following another disappointing end to the season, the Packers are in a position where the pressure to improve is palpable. Yet, ESPN’s Rob Demovsky used a phrase that Packers fans are all too familiar with—and it’s far from reassuring. The three words he used to describe Green Bay’s offseason so far? “Run it back.”

While the phrase “run it back” might seem innocuous to some, for the Packers, it carries a heavy weight. It signifies the possibility of repeating the same mistakes, continuing with the same leadership, and not addressing the changes necessary to get back to the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, for Packers fans, this isn’t a new feeling.

A 15-Year Super Bowl Drought and the Pressure to Succeed

Green Bay is known as “Title Town,” yet it has been 15 years since the Packers last won the Super Bowl, making it the longest drought for the franchise in recent memory. In comparison, the Seattle Seahawks, who won Super Bowl LX, now have two championships during the same timeframe. This stark contrast highlights the mounting frustration in Green Bay as the team has failed to capture another title.

In Demovsky’s offseason analysis, he points out that the Packers finished in the top 10 of ESPN’s early rankings for 2026. While this shows they have the talent to compete, it also underscores that they are still chasing teams like the Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots, Los Angeles Rams, and San Francisco 49ers. Many of these teams had stronger seasons than Green Bay in 2025, which leaves fans wondering whether “running it back” will lead to yet another season of mediocrity.

The Dreaded Phrase: “Run it Back”

Demovsky wrote that one of President Ed Policy’s first significant decisions since taking over was to retain head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst. While Policy acknowledged that bowing out in the first round of the playoffs for the second consecutive season was disappointing, he ultimately felt that the leadership in place was solid. With that, LaFleur and Gutekunst are under the microscope in 2026—it’s time for them to deliver, or their tenures in Green Bay could be questioned.

In Demovsky’s assessment, the phrase “run it back” reflects the Packers’ approach of sticking with the same leadership but also carries a warning. The Packers’ leadership may be intact, but if nothing changes, there is little reason to believe the outcome will be any different. As the old saying goes, “if nothing changes, nothing changes.” For Green Bay, this offseason is pivotal in determining whether they can break through the wall that’s kept them from another title.

Changes on the Defensive Side of the Ball

While “running it back” might sound alarming, it’s important to note that the Packers aren’t entirely standing still. Although they’ve kept the top brass in place, changes have been made on the defensive side of the ball. Former Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon has taken over as the new defensive coordinator, bringing with him a fresh approach to the Packers’ defensive unit. Alongside Gannon, the Packers have added some notable coaching talent to the defensive staff.

Gannon has assembled a team of highly respected assistants, including former Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Bobby Babich as the new passing game coordinator, and former Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Sam Siefkes as the linebackers coach. Additionally, DeMarcus Covington, who previously served as defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots under Jerod Mayo, will join the Packers as the defensive line coach and run game coordinator. These coaching changes signal that the Packers are not simply standing pat; they’re actively trying to improve their defense to better compete in the NFC.

Free Agency and the NFL Draft: The Road to Change

Beyond coaching changes, the Packers will look to reshape their roster through free agency and the NFL Draft. While it’s too early to predict exactly which players the team will sign or lose, there is significant room for improvement, especially on the defensive side. Free agency will provide the Packers with an opportunity to add key pieces to bolster their defense and fill any gaps on the offensive side as well.

The NFL Draft, which will take place in April, will also be a critical time for Green Bay. With their current roster needing reinforcement, the draft could provide a chance to acquire new talent that could immediately contribute. This could be the year the Packers strike gold and find the player who will help push them over the hump.

Will “Running it Back” Be Enough?

The Packers’ 2026 season hinges on whether their “run it back” approach, combined with strategic coaching changes, free agency additions, and draft picks, will be enough to challenge the top teams in the NFC. With LaFleur entering his seventh year as head coach and Gutekunst in his eighth year as GM, the expectations are high. Another season of playoff disappointment would likely lead to major questions about the direction of the team and whether it’s time for a more drastic overhaul.

For now, Packers fans must hold out hope that the tweaks being made on the defensive side of the ball, along with potential roster upgrades, will lead to a more successful season in 2026. “Running it back” might be the phrase used to describe the offseason, but the results on the field will determine whether it was the right decision.

Conclusion: A Fork in the Road for the Packers

The Green Bay Packers find themselves at a crossroads as they enter the 2026 offseason. With a strong roster but a history of playoff failures, this offseason is crucial in determining whether the team can break through and compete for another Super Bowl. While the phrase “run it back” might signal continuity, it also comes with the weight of high expectations. With new defensive leadership, potential roster changes, and an upcoming draft, the Packers are trying to position themselves for a return to championship contention. However, whether these moves will pay off remains to be seen. Packers fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if 2026 marks a breakthrough or if the team will find itself in yet another cycle of disappointment.