The Green Bay Packers are stepping into the 2025-26 season with something they haven’t had in years: a fresh identity that feels uniquely theirs.
After finishing the 2024-25 campaign with an 11-6 record, the team’s playoff hopes were cut short in a 22-10 Wild Card loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, who went on to win the Super Bowl. That sting has lingered, but it’s lit a fire under them instead of dragging the team down.
How Will Josh Jacobs’ Leadership Shape the Packers’ Identity?
What makes this season different isn’t just the X’s and O’s. The 2024-25 defense under Jeff Hafley transformed into one of the league’s best, racking up 31 turnovers and proving they could go toe-to-toe with anyone.
Green Bay can succeed without living under the lengthy shadow of Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers, as demonstrated by Jordan Love’s advancement to the position of full-time starter. A new chapter is beginning based on energy, youth, and a sense of community.
But ask their RB Josh Jacobs what truly sets this year’s Packers apart, and his answer isn’t what you might expect.
“A lot of people grew up,” Jacobs said. “This offseason a lot of leaders on this team challenged guys to take that step. You see a lot of guys playing at a higher level. You can see the hunger on this team.”
Packers star running back @iAM_JoshJacobs stepped into the SPEAKEASY right after the game & told the fellas what’s different about this year’s @packers team.
“A lot of people grew up… this offseason a lot of leaders on this team challenged guys to take that step.” 😤 pic.twitter.com/Age9nxwEnm
— Speakeasy (@speakeasytlkshw) September 12, 2025
That hunger was on full display as the Packers opened the year 2-0. In Week 1, they stunned the Detroit Lions, favorites to rule the NFC North, followed it up with a Thursday night win over the Washington Commanders, another playoff team from the 2024-25 season. These weren’t just victories–they were statements.
What Makes This Packers Team Different Beyond Micah Parsons?
By average age, the Packers remain the NFL’s youngest team, but Jacobs’ presence changes the dynamic. More than just a running back, he’s evolved since arriving in the 2024-25 season. Teammates have dubbed him the “heartbeat of the offense,” and he’s rapidly established himself as one of the vocal leaders in the locker room. His message is straightforward: maturity, consistency, and accountability.
Adding a superstar like Micah Parsons helps, but Jacobs insists the change goes deeper than one trade. This is about a locker room full of players holding each other to higher standards, not splashy headlines.
It’s working through two weeks. With wins over two playoff teams already under their belts, the Packers look every bit like contenders in the NFC. However, Jacobs believes the difference isn’t about who joined them. It’s about who they’ve become.
