On the eve of Wild Card Weekend, the Green Bay Packers have been dealt a crucial blow. Vice President of Player Personnel and front office mainstay Jon-Eric Sullivan is reportedly finalizing a deal to become the new general manager of the Miami Dolphins.
After working with the Packers for more than two decades, helping them win a Super Bowl, and playing a key role in bringing sustained success to Green Bay, Sullivan now heads out to build a contender of his own.
While it's always good to see someone who came up through Green Bay's scouting ranks earn such a coveted job, this loss could hurt the Packers in more ways than one.
Packers lose key front office member to Dolphins
Sullivan started with the Packers all the way back in 2003 as a scouting intern. Since then, he's moved through the ranks, finally earning a role as VP of Player Personnel in 2022. While general manager Brian Gutekunst has been the face of the Packers' front office since 2018, Sullivan has been crucial in building this roster. His scouting abilities have helped keep the Packers competitive throughout the 21st century.
Without him in the building, another front office member will need to step up. The Packers have been known for promoting from within, so don't be surprised if Sullivan's replacement is a familiar name. Still, this move will come as a major loss for Green Bay.
And it might not just be Sullivan who leaves. Having been with the organization for so long, the new Dolphins general manager has deep connections with many of the Packers' current front office members and coaching staff. Don't be surprised if he takes a few people with him.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is a name to watch. While he's only worked with Sullivan in the last two seasons, their connection could help earn him a head coaching interview with the Dolphins. Sullivan has worked directly with the players in his former role, too, so he could sway a few pieces to join him in Miami.
Of course, the Packers' focus at the moment is still on their playoff matchup with the Chicago Bears. Roster-building questions and hiring worries can wait until after the playoffs are over. But when it comes time to get the roster ready for the 2026 season, those within Green Bay's front office will surely miss having Sullivan around.