#156 Packers Unscripted: Opening thoughts

Mike and Wes preview the 2024 NFL Draft, discussing takeaways from GM Brian Gutekunst's pre-draft news conference (3:16) and pondering questions such as how many picks the Packers will make (8:43), whether they'll trade or pick at No. 25 in the first round (12:48), what positions might be addressed with multiple picks (19:54), and whether they draft another QB (24:32). Finally, they send longtime equipment manager Red Batty off into his well-deserved retirement (32:04).

Mike and Wes look ahead to the 2024 NFL Draft and discuss the Packers' stash of picks in the early rounds (1:04), the current status at the safety position (4:02), how GM Brian Gutekunst tries to avoid getting boxed in (7:02), targeting depth on the offensive line (14:52), and the intrigue surrounding other NFC North teams (20:15).

The show returns for a ninth season as Mike and Wes review the offseason happenings in Green Bay, from the signings of Josh Jacobs and Xavier McKinney (4:54); to the hiring of new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley (10:23), to other moves in free agency, including the re-signing of Keisean Nixon (15:57) ; to the pending kicking competition (19:30) and new contract for QB Jordan Love (21:34); to opening the 2024 season in Brazil vs. the Eagles (25:30).

Mike and Wes review the playoff loss to the 49ers, discussing the missed opportunities (2:53, 9:49) in the game, the play of QB Jordan Love (4:49) and the takeaways from Matt LaFleur's final press conference (13:10). They also look at the bigger picture regarding the team's progress (16:32), its culture and leadership (20:01), the pleasant surprises from the season (23:00), and the biggest hopes for improvement in '24 (29:55). Finally, they examine what remains of the NFL playoff picture (36:44).

Mike and Wes preview the NFC Divisional playoff matchup at San Francisco, looking at the 49ers' regular season (3:37) and balanced offense (6:50), as well as their sack- and turnover-generating defense (9:28) led by LB Fred Warner (13:06). They also discuss the Packers' keys to victory on offense (17:37) and defense (22:15), the possible impact of the weather on the game (23:37) and the other playoff matchups this weekend (26:47).

Mike and Wes review the playoff win over the Cowboys, including QB Jordan Love's impressive postseason debut (1:37), RB Aaron Jones' continued hot streak (3:52), and WR Romeo Doubs' big day (7:03). They also discuss the defense's key plays (12:39), look ahead briefly to San Francisco (22:18) and examine all the results on Wild Card weekend (25:48).

Mike and Wes preview the playoff matchup with the Cowboys, looking at QB Dak Prescott and WR CeeDee Lamb leading an explosive offense (1:55), and LB Micah Parsons and CB DaRon Bland headlining a turnover-generating defense (7:58). They also share the Packers' keys to victory (15:34) and preview the other wild-card matchups in both conferences (24:42).

Mike and Wes review the playoff-clinching victory over the Bears, including QB Jordan Love's performance in a big game (2:02), RB Aaron Jones' third straight 100-yard outing (5:30), and the defense rising to the occasion, particularly against the run (12:13). They also examine the playoff picture heading into wild-card weekend (17:50).