The Green Bay Packers’ 2026 roster is poised for a significant transformation, with key starters projected to depart and strategic veteran additions on the horizon, according to a major national forecast. Fox Sports has released its analysis of the top 100 impending free agents, providing a detailed prediction of the Packers’ potential comings and goings that could define the franchise’s trajectory.
A central theme of the projections is the anticipated exodus of homegrown talent, creating immediate voids the front office must address. Most notably, starting left tackle Rasheed Walker is predicted to sign a lucrative deal with the New England Patriots, a move that would thrust 2024 first-round pick Jordan Morgan into the spotlight. The departure would test Green Bay’s long-term planning on the offensive line.
Further compounding the potential losses, edge rusher Kingsley Enagbare and wide receiver Romeo Doubs are forecast to follow former defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley to the Miami Dolphins and Philadelphia Eagles, respectively. These exits would deplete depth at premium positions, challenging the team’s ability to sustain its recent competitive level.
The most seismic shift, however, could come at quarterback. Fox Sports projects backup Malik Willis, who impressed in spot starts last season, to secure a starting opportunity and a substantial payday with the Miami Dolphins. This prediction leaves a critical question about the succession plan behind Jordan Love, should it come to pass.
Amidst these potential subtractions, the forecast includes one major retention and a strategic addition. Linebacker Quay Walker, the defensive signal-caller, is predicted to re-sign on a deal worth approximately $15 million annually, securing a cornerstone piece for the unit. His return would provide essential stability for a defense facing multiple changes.
The most intriguing predicted arrival is veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell, who would reunite with Head Coach Matt LaFleur’s brother, Mike, following their time together in Arizona. The 39-year-old Campbell, coming off a productive season with the Cardinals, is seen as a perfect short-term solution to bolster the interior defensive line with both play and leadership.
Financial implications underscore every projection. Letting Walker and Doubs walk would free capital but create new needs, while committing to Quay Walker and potentially Campbell represents an investment in immediate defensive competency. The speculated market for Malik Willis, projected at two years and $40 million, highlights the cost of a reliable quarterback in today’s NFL.
These predictions paint a picture of a franchise at a crossroads, balancing the financial realities of a competitive roster with the urgency to contend. The potential loss of several role players and a high-upside quarterback in Willis would demand a meticulous draft strategy, especially without a first-round pick, and shrewd value signings in the secondary waves of free agency.
The accuracy of these forecasts will soon be tested as the legal tampering period opens, but they provide a clear framework for the critical decisions facing General Manager Brian Gutekunst. The Packers’ approach to filling these potential holes—whether through the draft, remaining free agents, or internal development—will set the tone for their 2026 campaign and beyond.
Fan reaction has been mixed, with many expressing concern over the depth chart at edge rusher and wide receiver should the projections hold true. The community largely supports the speculated pursuit of Campbell, viewing him as an ideal mentor for a young defensive front, while the potential of Jordan Morgan stepping in at left tackle is met with cautious optimism.
As the offseason drama unfolds, all eyes will be on Green Bay’s management to navigate this pivotal period. The decisions made in the coming weeks will reveal whether the Packers are building for sustained success or preparing for a transitional year, with the Fox Sports projections serving as a compelling blueprint for what may lie ahead.
