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    • Packers GM Brian Gutekunst on Jordan Love, new players, status of the team
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    Packers GM Brian Gutekunst on Jordan Love, new players, status of the team

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    GREEN BAY − At the end of the NFL trade deadline, Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst met with the media to discuss the current state of the team and the new pieces that helped.

    The Packers traded veteran defensive lineman Preston Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a 2025 seventh-round draft pick.

    Here are some of the players Gutekunst talked about.

    Jordan Love

    “He’s had a few layoffs, missing time and working through injuries. He is unflappable. He’s the same man every day. His focus is really good. Thanks to him, our attack has been very explosive at times. I think as a football team we are working on being a complete team and a team that can win situational football. We’re not there yet, but I think he played very well.”

    Malik Willis

    “We didn’t expect him to hit the ground running as quickly as we did, and you really have to thank Malik and our coaching staff for the great job they’ve done getting him ready and developing a game plan around him that really suits him. We knew the player and the skills and really enjoyed winning with his arm and leg. I really enjoyed getting to know him. He is a great kid and really fits what we want here.”

    On defensive backs

    “These guys have done a great job this year. I think (Javon Bullard) did a great job for a rookie when he got the bullseye. The opportunity for him to play safety and nickel and what’s in front of him, for a young man to do what he’s done, is really exciting. What he has already done and where he is going.

    “Keisean (Nixon) hasn’t played a lot of outside corner for us and was put in that position. He did a very good job for us. He has excellent instincts. He can take the ball away. I’m also very happy with him out there.”

    Free agent acquisitions Xavier McKinney and Josh Jacobs

    “Not surprised (at production). Those guys were proven players in the league. Again, a new environment is coming, sometimes that can take some time. Thanks to those guys for being able to contribute so quickly. For me, I think about the production they put out for us, but also how they fit into the locker room as leaders. They have helped strengthen our culture.”

    What he saw in Xavier McKinney

    “It always starts with our process in college and watching him during that time. Certainly, we were very fond of him at that time and watched him in New York. We played (Giants) last year – had a chance to see him up close and see how he prepared in pregame and the things he did. He prepares extremely well. Takes it very seriously and keeps his body in top shape. I just think he’s a professional. Interceptions can be streaky, but I do think he’s a guy where the opportunity came, he had the ability to take the ball away.”

    Movie review: Jordan Love’s interception is the only play that cost the Packers against the Lions

    Edgerin Cooper

    “He had a little setback (with injuries) during training camp, which is difficult for a young player when you miss so much time on the field. Just like he was in college, he makes dynamic plays when you put him on the court. He’s still figuring out the details and intricacies of our defense, but when he’s there, you feel him. He certainly brings an element of speed and he is a natural playmaker. I’m happy for him, where he can go, I think there’s a lot of good football ahead of him.”

    Tucker Kraft

    “He is a very rare athlete. Very smart. We knew he could do a lot of things. Did I expect him to take snaps at close range? No. If any of our scouts claim he knew, please let me know. I’ve read all those reports and I haven’t seen anything about a short-yardage quarterback. At the same time, he continues to grow and Matt continues to expand his role because of what he has been able to do.”

    Brandon McManus

    “A veteran. A professional. He’s been in every situation, so I don’t think he gets nervous. When I came in and after the first game it obviously came down to one (game-winning kick) and then two in a row. That’s why we took the step. Certainly, when he talks to (special teams coach) Rich (Bisaccia) and those guys, he knows how he wants to do it and he’s done it for a long time. I find that refreshing.”

    What he wants to see from the team after the bye week

    “More consistency and maybe a little bit better in situational football. I think if a team wants to win championships and go deep in the playoffs, you should be able to do that. That’s what we’re working towards and I think these guys have had some really good moments, but you have to be consistent and call on that when necessary.

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