The Green Bay Packers, a team steeped in NFL history, are facing an unexpected opportunity to reunite with a familiar face: Marcedes Lewis, the former tight end who spent several years with the team. According to AtoZ Sports, Lewis, who played for a rival NFC North team after leaving Green Bay, has now expressed openness to returning to Lambeau Field. This could be the Packers’ final chance to bring back their “old friend,” and the potential move is generating buzz among fans.
Marcedes Lewis’ Journey: From Packers to NFC North Rival
Marcedes Lewis has had an impressively long career. Drafted in the first round in 2006, he has already played 19 seasons in the NFL, five of them for the Green Bay Packers between 2018 and 2022. It was a special stint, with Lewis serving as a locker room leader and a solid blocker.
After two years with the Chicago Bears, the tight end is entering what he thinks will be his last season in the league. And he seems open to playing for the Packers once again, especially because of his close connection to head coach Matt LaFleur.
“I know that the last year that I was there, they were close to bringing me back for another year before I signed with Chicago,” Lewis said on the ‘Up and Adams Show’. “But the direction that they were going was gonna be young. Obviously, Matt (LaFleur) is one of my best friends now, we FaceTimed last week and we were kinda talking about it. And it’s really out of his hands, you know? I understand the business side of it. I think that’s another reason that if you can compartmentalize what you do well and understand that this game is still a business and it’s not necessarily personal, you always get the best out of yourself.”
Marcedes Lewis, who was known in the Packers locker room as ‘Big Dog’, left the team in free agency two years ago as the roster was in a transition period from Aaron Rodgers to Jordan Love.
“It’s just one of those things, I feel like it ended a little too soon in Green Bay,’ Lewis mentioned. “But obviously my guys were leaving, A-Rod left, Cobby, there were just guys leaving from that team, my boy Davante was going to Vegas. There was just a lot going on.”
Lewis’ long career included a Pro Bowl and a Second-Team All-Pro appearance in 2010, during his time with the Jacksonville Jaguars. At 41, he is ready for his last rodeo.
“Mentally, I’m going into it saying this is my last year. Obviously, blessed to have 19 amazing years and the journey’s been great. I’m still playing almost 30 percent of the plays now, and it’s not as if I’m just this old guy or I can’t stay healthy. I think I’ve missed something like 18 games in 19 years. Durable, I’m still doing my thing. I still practice hard. I’m still a student, I’m learning, I’m not in meetings acting as if I know it all. I think that’s what keeps me locked in and my seatbelt on. I’m just grateful to have that type of growth mindset about my work. That’s the reason why I’m here.”
In five seasons for the Packers, Marcedes Lewis had 57 catches for 582 yards and six touchdowns. Last season, the tight end played 19.37% of the offensive snaps and 11.9% of the special teams snaps for the Bears.
Why the Packers Need Lewis Back
The 2025 season presents significant challenges for the Packers, particularly with a demanding schedule (Yardbarker ranks their schedule as the 10th toughest in the NFL). Despite adding promising rookies like Matthew Golden and Savion Williams at wide receiver, the tight end position remains a question mark. Young tight ends Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft show potential but lack the consistency and experience needed in critical moments.
Marcedes Lewis, with 19 seasons of NFL experience, could provide the stability the team needs. His blocking prowess would greatly support the offensive line, particularly in protecting quarterback Jordan Love and creating running lanes for Josh Jacobs, who was described by Acme Packing Company as a game-changer last season. Additionally, Lewis’ presence in the locker room would offer valuable leadership, helping younger players like Musgrave and Kraft develop further.
The Final Opportunity?
At 40 years old, Marcedes Lewis is in the twilight of his career. Returning to the Packers would not only give him a chance to close out his journey where it once thrived but also allow the Packers to leverage his experience in a pivotal season. According to AtoZ Sports, Lewis is open to a reunion, but time is running out. The Packers must act quickly before Lewis signs with another team or decides to retire.
Beyond the on-field benefits, this move carries emotional weight for Packers fans. Lewis, with his professionalism and dedication, left a lasting mark in Green Bay. A reunion would be a meaningful gift for the Lambeau Field faithful, offering a chance to see him don the green and gold once more.
Challenges in the Deal
While the idea of bringing Lewis back is enticing, the Packers face several hurdles. The team is operating with a constrained budget, especially after signing rookies and extending contracts for key players like Jordan Love. Signing Lewis, though likely cost-effective, still requires careful financial consideration, particularly as the team explores other potential moves, such as trading Jaire Alexander (Sporting News).
Moreover, the Packers must assess whether Lewis fits into head coach Matt LaFleur’s current offensive scheme. While Lewis remains remarkably fit at 40, his role may be limited to blocking or specific situational packages. This raises the question of whether the Packers are willing to prioritize him over younger talents waiting for their chance.
Conclusion
The potential deal to bring Marcedes Lewis back to the Green Bay Packers is both emotionally charged and strategically promising. With his experience, professionalism, and love for the team, Lewis could be the perfect piece to help the Packers go further in the 2025 season. However, time is of the essence, and this may be the last chance to reunite with their “old friend.”
Packers fans are eagerly awaiting a bold decision from head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst. Will Lambeau Field witness the return of Marcedes Lewis? Only time will tell.