Packers Linebacker Room: Competition Heats Up

0:00On March 22nd, the Green Bay Packers have loaded up their line-backer room for the 2026 season, and they might not need to add more, despite a talented draft class. After Key Walker left for the Raiders on a 3-year, $40.5 million contract, the team traded for veterans Iyer Franklin from the Commerce, Colt and brought back Nick Neiman and Christian Welch. That leaves them with Edger and Cooper, Franklin, Isaiah McDuffey, Tyron Hopper, Jamon Johnson and Welch, all competing for spots. Earlier this week, General Manager Brian Guttakunst stressed the need for line-backer competition at the NFL Scouting Combine and his moves have, delivered plenty of it. Franklin, who turns 30 before next season, steps in as the likely middle line-backer starter next to the young star Cooper. Meanwhile, the shift to new defensive coordinator Jonathan Ganon's system plays a big role here. Ganon leans toward 3-4 principles over the previous 4-3 setup, which means fewer off-ball line-backers on the field at once, often just, two middles with pass rushers on the edges.

1:05This setup demotes McDuffey to back up after he logged over 1,800 snaps the past two years, while third-year player Hoverslides, even lower on the depth chart. It's solid depth, but some see it as overcrowding with seven bodies in the mix. For now, the Packers seem comfortable and done at line-backer, though a trade like moving McDuffey could free space for a draft pick they love. We'll watch closely as the off-season unfold. You've been listening to NFL News Today, AI-powered football coverage.