GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ)- Green Bay Packers CEO and President Mark Murphy explained his reasoning for a change in the front office, moving Ted Thompson from General Manager to Senior Advisor of Football Operations after thirteen years in the position.
Murphy said the search for a new General Manager is underway and that the Packers hired a search firm to aid, adding the ultimate decision on the hire will be his.
“We want to move quickly, but we also want to make sure we get the right person. I am really confident, that with the right person, we can win Super Bowls in the near future.”
Murphy said despite some reports, the decision for the transition was mutual.
“It was a decision that we made jointly, looking a number of different options. He and I talked about different options, but kept coming back to that he is a scout at heart and that is what he loves to do. In my mind, I feel it is a decision that will be best for the organization and for Ted.”
Murphy did not indicate exactly what he is looking for in a new GM, but did say that in his mind, it is an attractive job that should bring in many candidates.
“We have many internal candidates that we will take a look at” he said.
There are four possibilities already employed. Russ Ball, the Vice-President of Football Administration/Player Finance; Eliot Wolf the Director of Football Operations; Brian Gutenkunst, the Director of Player Personnel and Alonzo Highsmith, the Senior Personnel Executive.
Murphy said he will also explore options from around the league.
He also stated that Mike McCarthy received a contract extension through 2019
“He will be our coach” Murphy stated.
Murphy said he is aware of outside critcism how how Thompson avoided free agents and his draft and develop strategy. He said he would not have critera for the new GM in that regard.
“That will be up to the new GM. There are many ways to win in this league.”
While Murphy said he was disappointed in the season, he denied that his hand was forced by the Board of Directors to make the move away from Ted Thompson.
