Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst answered questions from the media over a virtual conference call on Sunday morning.
Here’s what to know from Gutekunst’s first press conference of training camp:
– Gutekunst said he appreciated how receiver Devin Funchess approached his opt-out situation. The Packers were supportive of his decision. Gutekunst hasn’t heard of any other player on the roster wanting to opt out.
– Gutekunst provided no update on if the team wants or plans to bring veteran cornerback Tramon Williams, who remains unsigned.
– Gutekunst dismissed an increased need to add a receiver after losing Funchess, indicating a comfort level with the players on the roster.
– The Packers will operate with split squads and won’t immediately cut down to 80 players. They are at 83 players currently on the roster, not including reserve/COVID-19 list players.
– Gutekunst said the Packers attempted to sign tight end/fullback John Lovett after the 2019 draft, but the former Princeton quarterback signed with the Chiefs. The Packers claimed him off of waivers from the Chiefs this week.
– Gutekunst admitted evaluating the roster will be different and possibly more difficult without preseason games. Getting to see players under the lights at Lambeau Field was a step in the process. Without the preseason this year, the coaching staff will attempt to emulate game situations and pressures at practice.
– The Packers are planning on big things from second-year tight end Jace Sternberger. “We’re depending on Jace to be a big part of what we’re doing this season,” Gutekunst said.
– Gutekunst is trusting players to make the right decisions away from the facility. Said it will be “tough” for players to look at teammates if they’re wreckless away from Lambeau Field and get the coronavirus.
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