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Why the Packers fixing biggest problem gives boost in ESPN power rankings
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The Green Bay Packers are entering the 2026 season with a renewed focus on defense following the appointment of Jonathan Gannon as their new defensive coordinator.
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Gannon, who comes to Green Bay after serving as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals , cited the franchise's historic "stability" as the primary reason for his decision to take the job.
He is replacing Jeff Hafley, who left to become the head coach of the Miami Dolphins .
Gannon emphasized that the chance to work with Matt LaFleur and join such an iconic organization is a rare opportunity in a league often marked by rapid coaching changes.
He expressed that the Packers' reputation is something that players and coaches grow up respecting, making his move to Wisconsin a highlight of his career.
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This organizational stability is currently complemented by aggressive roster management, especially in the secondary.
According to ESPN, the Packers' efforts to address their most significant weakness , the cornerback position, have elevated them to No. 7 in the latest "way-too-early" power rankings.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst revamped the secondary by parting ways with Nate Hobbs just one year into a substantial contract and replacing him with veteran Benjamin St-Juste .
The transformation continued during the draft, where the Packers selected South Carolina's Brandon Cisse with the 52nd overall pick and added Alabama's Domani Jackson in the sixth round.
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Analysts believe that the influx of young talent represents a necessary upgrade over previous rotations, giving the team a much-needed advantage in a competitive NFC.
To further bolster the roster, Green Bay recently signed veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor , providing insurance for Jordan Love .
Taylor, who joins the team after Malik Willis moved to Miami, brings a wealth of experience and reliability to the backup position.
In a corresponding move, the Packers released Desmond Ridder , ensuring that a battle-tested veteran will support the 2026 campaign should his number be called.
Related: Packers' Jonathan Gannon tells Matt LaFleur truth behind defensive philosophy
