Gutekunst also indicated he expects offensive lineman Aaron Banks to return next season, despite online chatter about a possible departure after a challenging 2025 campaign.
“I don’t know if we’ve made any decisions on anybody yet… but yeah those guys are under contract, so I’ll expect them back,” Gutekunst said, adding that Banks improved down the stretch after dealing with injury issues.
Banks was signed to a four-year, $77 million contract in 2021, a deal that financially translates to roughly $18 million per year. If Green Bay were to cut him in March, the team would save about $4.5 million in 2026 and $13.5 million in 2027, though the total cap implications depend on the club’s broader restructuring.
The Packers’ 2026 roster outlook remains deeply tied to the offensive line. With Elgton Jenkins potentially in play as a cap casualty, Banks’ return would help fortify left guard, while Rasheed Walker’s departure would leave Jordan Morgan to step in at left tackle. Re-signing center Sean Rhyan is part of the interior plan, with Jacob Monk as a possible, limited interior option.
Cap space remains a factor, with Spotrac estimating roughly $4 million under the cap. Green Bay could free more by moving Jenkins (roughly $20 million) and by potentially restructuring or cutting Rashan Gary (about $11 million), though Gary’s status could influence the final decisions. If cap room exists, Gutekunst is likely to give Banks another year to prove his value and justify the investment.
