Packers Conduct Internal Review, Consider Four “Ability-Based” Contracts for Players Who Struggled in 2025

The move comes after the Packers closed the season with a five-game losing streak, a collapse that prompted leadership to conduct what sources describe as a comprehensive internal review of the team’s roster usage, offensive coordination, and injury management.

According to multiple reports around the league, the review has already influenced offseason strategy. Instead of immediately parting ways with several young players who struggled in 2025, the Packers are exploring a system of performance-driven contracts that would allow those players to remain with the team while tying a large portion of their compensation to on-field production.

A Cap-Friendly Strategy

The Packers are currently navigating a tight salary cap situation, estimated to be roughly $4–6 million over the cap heading into the 2026 league year. While the front office has several tools available — including restructures and potential extensions for players like Jordan Love, Rashan Gary, and Christian Watson — the organization appears intent on controlling financial risk while maintaining roster depth.

Ability-based contracts offer exactly that. By structuring deals with lower base salaries and significant performance incentives, the Packers can retain talented players without committing large guaranteed money.

For players looking to bounce back, the structure also provides an opportunity to earn a larger payday if they perform well in 2026.

Four Players Under Consideration

Sources indicate the Packers are evaluating four players from the 2025 roster whose seasons fell short of expectations but who still possess significant upside.

Matthew Golden (WR) — The former first-round pick struggled to live up to expectations during his rookie campaign. Despite flashes of athleticism, Golden’s production never fully materialized, leading to questions about his role in the offense moving forward.

Romeo Doubs (WR) — Once viewed as a reliable target in the passing game, Doubs experienced a frustrating season marked by drops and declining production, which limited his impact in key games late in the year.

Kingsley Enagbare (EDGE) — Enagbare entered the season expected to provide pass-rush depth behind Rashan Gary, but injuries and limited snaps resulted in a disappointing sack total and reduced defensive impact.

MarShawn Lloyd (RB) — The young running back battled multiple injuries throughout the season, preventing him from establishing any consistent rhythm in the Packers’ backfield.

Betting on Bounce-Back Seasons

The Packers’ internal review reportedly concluded that many of the team’s struggles were tied not only to scheme adjustments but also to players being placed in inconsistent roles due to injuries and roster rotation.

Rather than immediately moving on from players who struggled under those circumstances, the front office believes several of them still have the potential to develop into productive contributors.

By offering incentive-based deals, the Packers can essentially “test the market internally,” giving players one more opportunity to prove their value.

Building Around the Young Core

At the same time, Green Bay’s larger offseason strategy remains focused on securing its young franchise core.

Extensions for Jordan Love, defensive cornerstone Rashan Gary, and other emerging stars are expected to take priority, meaning the team must be selective about where it allocates guaranteed money.

Ability-based contracts provide a bridge between those priorities — allowing the Packers to maintain roster depth while protecting long-term financial flexibility.

A Motivational Reset for 2026

For players like Golden, Doubs, Enagbare, and Lloyd, the proposed contract structure represents more than just a financial arrangement — it’s a chance at redemption.

If the plan moves forward, the 2026 season could effectively become a prove-it year for several members of the Packers’ roster.

After the disappointment of 2025, Green Bay appears determined to turn internal accountability into motivation — and these performance-driven deals could be one of the first steps toward restoring momentum in Lambeau Field.