The Green Bay Packers are heading into the 2026 season with a renewed sense of optimism, thanks to a key update from general manager Brian Gutekunst that could completely shift how fans and analysts view the roster. After three straight seasons as the NFC's seventh seed—with just one playoff win in that stretch and none in the past two years—the outside perception has been less than flattering. Add in what many see as a net loss of talent this offseason, and it's easy to see why some are writing off the Packers.

But context matters, and Gutekunst is providing it. Down the stretch last season, Green Bay was without several of its biggest stars, including edge defender Micah Parsons, tight end Tucker Kraft, and right tackle Zach Tom. While Tom is already expected back for training camp, the real game-changers are Parsons and Kraft. According to Gutekunst, both are on track to return early in the regular season, with Kraft even eyeing a Week 1 comeback.

"They're doing great," Gutekunst said on SiriusXM NFL Radio. "Tuck's been in here every day, and he's obviously a little bit ahead of schedule, just because his injury happened earlier than Micah's did."

Parsons, the dynamic pass rusher who missed significant time last year, is expected to miss a few games, but Gutekunst is thrilled with his recovery. "Micah's such a, he's a little bit of a freak," the GM added. "So I think some of that has taken over, and he's doing really well, as well. So, certainly expect both of those guys back early in the season. And they'll be a big part of what we're doing moving forward."

These aren't just any players returning—they're two of the best on the roster. Parsons is a unique talent who can disrupt any passing game, and the Packers simply don't have another defender who can affect the quarterback at the same rate. Kraft, meanwhile, is more than just a reliable tight end; he's a perfect fit for Matt LaFleur's offense, bringing versatility as both a blocker and receiver that the backup tight ends couldn't replicate last season. Their return early in the 2026 campaign doesn't just add depth—it completely changes the team's identity and potential.