Aaron Banks and the Green Bay Packers are entering the 2026 NFL season with a renewed focus on development along the offensive line. After an uneven first year in the system, expectations for improvement are beginning to take shape.
The NFL star drew a candid assessment from offensive line coach Luke Butkus, who acknowledged both the challenges and potential surrounding the veteran guard. Banks dealt with injuries and the adjustment to a new scheme, factors that influenced his performance but did not define it.
Green Bay Packers, Aaron Banks
Nov 27, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Green Bay Packers guard Aaron Banks (65) and Green Bay Packers wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks (13) celebrate after a touchdown against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
Banks showed flashes of strong play throughout the season, demonstrating the physicality and technique that made him a valuable addition. At the same time, inconsistency highlighted areas that still require attention as he works to refine his game.
The coaching staff views the upcoming season as an opportunity for Banks to build on his foundation. With a full year of experience in the system, he is expected to play with greater confidence and a clearer understanding of his responsibilities.
OL Coach Luke Butkus Gives Insight on Green Bay Packers’ Aaron Banks
Green Bay Packers, Aaron Banks
Oct 19, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Green Bay Packers guard Aaron Banks (65) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Butkus shared his thoughts about Banks ahead of the 2026 NFL season. This can be seen in an article posted on the team’s official website.
“Flashes, and I think he’ll tell you the same, and he will never make an excuse,” Burtus said. “I’m not making an excuse for him either. He was banged up, he was in a new system, you could say all that stuff, but he’ll be the first one to tell you, it doesn’t matter. He’s going to come to work. Did we see some really good things? Absolutely. And then there’s some things we need to clean up, and that’s our job as coaches, his as a player, to have a vision of what he needs to do to get better. But it’s in there, and coming back for the second year, again, I think he’s a guy that’s going to be really good for us, and really good for the younger guys in the room. He has seen it done and he’s done it at a high level.”
Beyond his individual performance, Banks is also seen as a presence within the offensive line group. His experience at a high level positions him to contribute not only on the field but also as a resource for younger players developing within the unit.
The outlook for Banks reflects a balance between accountability and optimism. If he can translate his flashes into consistent production, he has the potential to become a reliable piece of the Packers’ offensive line in 2026.