The NFL Combine takes place from Feb. 26 to March 1 at Lucas Oil Stadium, in Indianapolis. More than watch prospects live and talk to them, the Combine functions as a league-wide meeting. Most executives, coaches, and agents are around to discuss relevant topics and, let’s be honest, start talking about what free agency will look like a few weeks from now.

It’s an impactful part of the calendar for franchises, and it’s not different for the Green Bay Packers. General manager Brian Gutekunst will have a press conference on Tuesday, but the Combine could bring more clarity — whether it’s official or via intel — about several non-draft aspects of the team.

Trades for cut candidates

It’s an invaluable opportunity for general managers to talk in person, without much external interference and less risk of leaks. So, Brian Gutekunst can use it to discuss potential trades. Without the next two first-rounders, the Packers shouldn’t spend more draft capital to acquire veterans, but maybe recoup some picks for players who otherwise may get cut. Center Elgton Jenkins and edge defender Rashan Gary are two examples, even though a potential paycut would likely have to be discussed with their agents anyway. If the Packers don’t leave Indy with a sense that a trade is possible, releases may happen soon after that.

Lukas Van Ness’ fifth-year option

The Packers have through early May, right after the draft, to exercise or not Lukas Van Ness’ fifth-year option, with an estimated value of $15.381 million. Green Bay will likely take it, especially if it decides to part ways with Rashan Gary, but it’s not a certainty. Van Ness is already under contract for 2026, and the option would be a fully-guaranteed amount for 2027.

Early extensions

The Packers have some players eligible to receive contract extensions, and the Combine is a chance for Gutekunst to talk to agents and get closer to deals. The biggest name to watch this offseason is tight end Tucker Kraft, even though he’s recovering from a torn ACL. Other names to keep an eye on include defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt, who’s set to play on a fifth-year option, plus wide receivers Christian Watson and Jayden Reed.

Free agency activity

This topic goes both ways. First, which of their own free agents the Packers plan to keep or let go — wide receiver Romeo Doubs, linebacker Quay Walker, quarterback Malik Willis, and left tackle Rasheed Walker are the biggest names. But also, which external free agents Green Bay could consider. Officially, the Packers can’t talk or even express interest in other teams’ free agents, but the reality is that executives give some indications to agents (and get information back) about their plans for the new league year in March.

Offensive line plan

This is more of a broader topic of conversation, but it encompasses some of the topics above. If Rasheed Walker leaves in free agency, Jordan Morgan becomes the presumptive starter at left tackle, but depth suffers. Will the Packers extend or re-sign Sean Rhyan? Will Elgton Jenkins get traded or cut? Free agency and draft could be avenues to reinforce the group after an underwhelming season in 2025, and the Combine is where things start to move faster.

Green Bay Packers News

Upcoming draft class aligns almost perfectly with what Packers must add to seriously contend for a Super Bowl in coming years

Cornerback is a short- and long-term need.

Wendell Ferreira