Koeppel’s methodology averaged each team’s standing in cap space and draft capital. He rated the Packers 22nd in cap space and 29th in draft capital, resulting in an overall No. 30 ranking. By comparison, the Cowboys and Bills posted averages of 26 and 26.5, respectively, highlighting Green Bay’s relative constraints.
The Packers’ cap situation remains precarious entering the 2026 offseason. Spotrac lists Green Bay at 22nd in cap room, approximately $4.3 million over the cap, though teams can reshuffle contracts to free more space. A post–season report cited Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst’s assertion that the front office will have flexibility to reshape the roster, with simple restructures potentially unlocking significant cap space; one estimate suggested up to $52 million could be freed under certain restructures, though Packers’ own restructures rank 25th in the league.
Draft capital compounds the challenge. Green Bay currently owns no first-round pick in 2026 and has only two selections inside the top 100 (Nos. 52 and 87). Packers Wire noted the official draft order hadn’t been set, but Tankathon projected the Packers 29th in draft capital, underscoring difficulty in acquiring immediate impact via the draft. This limitation amplifies the need for effective free-agent moves and prudent budgeting in a constrained cap environment.
Despite the challenges, the NFC North competition also faces stiff constraints. The Lions led the division in the same analysis, finishing 23rd; the Vikings and Bears trailed slightly behind, at 27 and a tie for 28, respectively. The Packers’ position signals a careful, dollars-and-cents approach to roster-building, with a focus on savvy restructures and potential bargain signings to optimize their 2026 outlook.
