The Green Bay Packers’ decision to extend Rich Bisaccia’s contract as special teams coordinator has sparked debate amongst fans and analysts. Some see the extension as the Packers making a commitment to stability. In contrast, others question whether retaining Bisaccia is the right step to take for a unit that has struggled in recent seasons. It’s a debate that will undoubtedly rage on, and there are arguments on both sides, but is keeping Bisaccia in post the right call? Or have the Packers missed out on an opportunity to improve in an area where there continue to be struggles and inconsistency?
Performance Under Bisaccia
On arrival in 2022, Bisaccia brought a wealth of NFL coaching experience to the Packers, two decades worth, to be precise. He’d fulfilled coaching roles with the Raiders, Cowboys, Chargers, and Buccaneers, so he has the credentials. However, his time in Green Bay has produced mixed results. In 2022, the Packers’ special teams ranked 22nd, meaning they’d climbed ten places after finishing 32nd in 2021. But, the unit has been plagued by inconsistency, and this persists to the present day.
While there have been efforts to improve, the special teams have continued to be a point of concern, which has led to some questioning Bisaccia and the effectiveness of his strategies. Given how crucial special teams can be in determining outcomes, particularly in close matchups that influence NFL betting markets, there’s some argument that the Packers should have sought a fresh approach.
Arguments for Retaining Bisaccia
Those in support of Bisaccia’s new deal argue that continuity is crucial for developing a unit that is both cohesive and effective. They point to the individual successes of players such as kicker Anders Carlson, who set a franchise rookie record when he went on a run of scoring in seventeen consecutive games in 2023. It’s also thought that Head Coach Matt LaFleur appreciates Bisaccia’s counsel and the stability his presence brings to the coaching staff.
Arguments Against Retaining Bisaccia
Those against Bisaccia’s contract being extended insist that the ongoing struggles are an indication that new leadership is required. They point out that penalties and inconsistent performance coverage and returns are signs that the unit hasn’t progressed to the levels expected under Bisaccia. There are also some suggestions that the Packers are missing out on an opportunity to instill a sense of urgency by not looking to move on from Bisaccia and hire an upgrade.
When the Packers decided they would retain Rich Bisaccia, they did so, believing that their preference for stability and Bisaccia’s long-term vision would pay off further down the line. However, the decision-makers will be fully aware that while there have been individual successes and some areas of improvement, the unit isn’t where it should be. The hope is that the contract extension will lead to the desired advancements. If things don’t improve, it’s highly likely to be the last contract renewal for Bisaccia with the Packers.
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