Packers: Ranking top 10 moves of Brian Gutekunst’s tenure

Green Bay Packers, Brian GutekunstGpg Packers 031419 Abw079
Green Bay Packers, Brian GutekunstGpg Packers 031419 Abw079 /
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Green Bay Packers, Marcedes Lewis
Green Bay Packers, Marcedes Lewis (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

8. Signing Marcedes Lewis

An under-the-radar move Gutekunst made in his first offseason as Packers GM was to sign tight end Marcedes Lewis. Having also signed Jimmy Graham, the addition of Lewis was overlooked. The Packers signed Lewis to a one-year, $2.1 million deal and have continued to re-sign him ever since.

Mike McCarthy didn’t feature Lewis heavily in his offense but that all changed under Matt LaFleur. ‘Big Dog’ has become one of the most important players in Green Bay’s offense due to his outstanding blocking ability and leadership. He has played 64 games with 47 starts in four seasons.

7. Signing Chandon Sullivan

Another great move Gutekunst made in his first year was to sign cornerback Chandon Sullivan. Sullivan went undrafted in 2018 before being signed by the Philadelphia Eagles. After one season, the Eagles moved on and the Packers signed him to compete for a roster spot at training camp.

Sullivan has been on the team ever since, eventually replacing Tramon Williams in the slot. Sullivan has started 20 games for the Packers over the past two years, making 10 pass defenses and four interceptions in that time. He has played in all 49 games over three seasons.

Gutekunst recognized his talent and gave him an opportunity. Sullivan would become a reliable starter in Green Bay’s defense.