Overview
- Gutekunst said the franchise has a single objective — winning championships — and that expectations will not change for 2026.
- He confirmed team president Ed Policy made the call to extend Matt LaFleur, as the club also finalized multiyear deals for Gutekunst and football operations chief Russ Ball.
- Special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia appears set to return, with Gutekunst expressing confidence in the unit and indicating kicker Brandon McManus is likely to receive his $1 million March roster bonus.
- Gutekunst said underperforming veterans who are under contract — including Aaron Banks and Nate Hobbs, with Rashan Gary still being evaluated — are expected back for now as March roster‑bonus deadlines approach.
- New defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon will pick the scheme after assessing personnel, while the front office studies why a 9‑8‑1 team lost five straight to end 2025, culminating in a 31‑27 Wild Card collapse at Chicago.