Packers: 3 reasons why Brian Gutekunst could be on hot seat

Why the Packers should consider replacing GM Brian Gutekunst.

It is becoming very clear that Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst has been ineffective, especially in recent years.

Here are three reasons why he needs to go.

3. Doesn’t capitalize on trade opportunities

Gutekunst has not capitalized in the trade market in his role as general manager.

Green Bay’s receiving corps is a disaster this season, and Gutekunst is largely to blame. A couple weeks ago, there was a perfect opportunity to trade for a wide receiver as desperately needed to save the season.

The fact that he hasn’t made a trade this season when needed the most proves that he is ineffective at roster management.

2. Doesn’t make valuable moves in the offseason 

While Gutekunst has acquired some talented players in previous seasons, he hasn’t done enough.

Several opportunities have presented themselves in recent years during the offseason. He could have signed Odell Beckham Jr. which would have made a huge difference this season when he returns from injury.

In previous seasons, Gutekunst also didn’t do enough when Green Bay has struggled defensively.

Year after year, many other teams rise to the occasion during the offseason. The lack of desire to make the necessary offseason moves to improve the team is hurting the Packers, especially this season.

3. No initiative to keep playmakers around

With no desire to keep big playmakers around, Gutekunst has downgraded the roster over the years. Parting ways with key wide receivers Davante Adams and Marquez Valdes-Scantling was a major mistake as demonstrated this season so far with the lack of depth at the position.

Star linebacker Za’Darius Smith was another player worth fighting for in the offseason who is now playing for the rival team, the Minnesota Vikings.

Letting go of legendary wide receiver Jordy Nelson a few years ago was also a head-scratching moment. Nelson was one of the greatest wide receivers to step foot in Green Bay. Gutekunst should have made an effort to re-sign him as he was a valuable player to the team.

One of the Packers’ greatest linebackers, Clay Matthews, also could have been signed to a new contract to stay in Green Bay. Unfortunately, Gutekunst had no interest in keeping him. Losing a player like Matthews took a great hit to the defense, and Gutekunst is partially responsible for that.

The lack of commitment to re-sign some of Green Bay’s best players is starting to hurt the Packers which ultimately falls on the shoulders of Brian Gutekunst.