10 Offensive Players the Packers Should Pursue in Free Agency

A year ago, an article of this nature would have been considered pure fantasy. On the offensive side of the ball, the only true free agent signing of any significance during Ted Thompson’s 13-year run as GM was Martellus Bennett – and that was a mere 10 months ago. The Packers have since released Bennett and demoted Thompson, the latter of which signaled a change in the team’s philosophy.

Newly anointed general manager Brian Gutekunst has been very open about his intent to be more aggressive in free agency. The Packers are currently sitting on approximately $25 million in cap space, assuming the salary cap indeed rises to $187 million. That number could grow substantially if they choose to cut or restructure the contracts of Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb and/or Clay Matthews.

Gutekunst will have his work cut out for him as the Packers have an abundance of holes to fill on both sides of the ball. The four positions on offense that are most likely to be addressed in free agency are tight end, backup quarterback, right guard, and outside receiver, in that order. Tight end tops the list for three reasons: A) The position is vital in McCarthy’s offense, B) There is no starting-caliber tight end on their current roster, and C) It is very difficult to get production at the position from a rookie. McCarthy and Gutekunst seem hell-bent on creating competition at every position. It won't come as a surprise if they decide to bring in a veteran quarterback to compete with Hundley for the backup job. Jahri Evans is a free agent and will turn 35 at the beginning of the 2018 season. It would make sense for the Packers to explore the market to try and fill the vacancy at right guard. Green Bay is in desperate need of a speedy ‘X’ receiver who has the ability to get behind the defense. Luckily for them, they should have no trouble finding one (or two) in free agency and/or the draft.

With that in mind, here is a look at some offensive players the Packers should pursue in free agency:

Honorable Mentions

  • Seahawks TE Jimmy Graham: The people lusting at the idea of the Packers pursuing Graham need to chillax. The 31-year old tight end never reached 75 yards in 2017 and finished off the most crucial part of the season with just five receptions over his last four games. Pro Football Focus had Graham graded as the 36th best tight end in 2017, and his tape backs that up. It would ill behoove the Packers to sign a declining tight end for a sizeable chunk of money.
  • Panthers G Andrew Norwell: One would think that if the Packers were unwilling to meet the demands of T.J. Lang and Josh Sitton, they would likely not want to spend a pretty penny on a guard from another team. The truth is, we don’t know how Gutekunst will value the guard position. Norwell was PFF’s highest graded pass protector amongst guards in 2017, and third ranked overall.
  • Dolphins QB Matt Moore: Moore has been around for a long time and served as the backup in Miami while Joe Philbin was head coach. The Packers can certainly do worse if they want to bring in veteran competition for Hundley.
  • Jaguars WR Allen Robinson: Just two seasons ago, Robinson posted 1,400 yards, 14 touchdowns and 31 plays that went 20 yards or more. In comparison, Green Bay receivers posted a combined total of 22 plays of 20 or more yards this season. The recovery from a torn ACL complicates Robinson’s value, but he is just 24 years of age and quite a few players (including Jordy Nelson) have come back strong from an ACL tear. As it stands now, the Packers will be paying more than $30 million to their top three receivers in 2018. Robinson won’t be an option unless they cut Jordy or Cobb, or both.

10. 49ers G Brandon Fusco

Fusco has come a long way since getting drafted in the sixth round by the Vikings in 2011. The 28-year old had a strong season in 2017, grading out as PFF’s 24th best guard in run blocking, 20th in pass protection, and 22nd overall. He bested Jahri Evans in all three categories. The Packers should give him a look, if the price is right.

9. Buccaneers QB Ryan Fitzpatrick

8. Jets QB Josh McCown

Fitzpatrick and McCown would both be superb additions to the Packers roster. If the team’s intention is to bring in someone who will mentor Brett Hundley and help him reach his potential, they can do no better than either of these two. If they intend to sign someone who can step in for Rodgers in the event of an injury (knock on wood) and give the Packers a fighting chance, either of these two will do the trick. Of the two, McCown is less likely to sign with a team where he has no shot at starting.

7. Ravens WR Mike Wallace

Even at the age of 31, Wallace is a still a deep threat who can take the cover off the defense. His hands have steadily improved, though concentration drops will always be an issue. He served as Flacco’s top target for much of the 2017 season and was surprisingly consistent. It’s unlikely that the Packers would have to break the bank to sign Wallace, given his age and the number of young and talented receivers that are set to be free agents.

6. Cardinals WR Jaron Brown

There were a lot of inconsistencies on Brown’s 2017 tape, but the one element to his game that was consistent was his ability to get behind the defense. Here’s one example:

The fact that he did that against the league’s best secondary is certainly noteworthy. 12 of Brown’s 31 receptions (38.7 percent) went for 20 yards or more, while none of Green Bay's receivers had more than eight. If the Packers are looking for a cheap option to quench their need for speed, they should give the 28-year old a call.

5. Cardinals WR John Brown

If Jaron Brown is fast, then John Brown is lightning. The 27-year old had an unofficial 40 time of 4.3 at the combine, and unlike his teammate, he has actually proven that he can produce at a high level in the NFL. The concerns with the younger Brown are the numerous different injuries he has had to deal with over the last three seasons. That being said, he has missed just eight games throughout his four-year career. He is someone who would greatly benefit from a change of scenery and a one-year “prove it” deal with a team like the Packers.

4. Bengals TE Tyler Eifert

When healthy, there are only a handful of tight ends in the league who are better than Eifert. The problem is that Eifert has missed more games (41) than he has appeared in (39). I can’t imagine any team offering Eifert anything more than a short-term, incentive-based contract. Assuming I am correct, the potential reward outweighs the obvious risk for the Packers.

3. Titans G Josh Kline

If the Packers want to protect their most valuable asset, Kline might be a worthwhile investment. The 28-year old is excellent in pass protection, with only eight guards ranking ahead of him in 2017, according to PFF. He does struggle as a run blocker, but the Packers prioritized pass protection when they signed Jahri Evans last year.

2. Seahawks WR Paul Richardson

Some people might want the Packers to sign Allen Robinson, but I’d rather see them sign an ascending 25-year old downfield threat who would cost half the price. Imagine him doing this in green and gold:

Once again, take note of the opponent. That’s Jacksonville’s league best secondary that he beat like a drum. Richardson should be high on the Packers’ wish list this offseason.

1. Eagles TE Trey Burton

Those who were expecting a brand name atop this list will be sorely disappointed – but they shouldn’t be. Burton has all the tools to be an elite tight end, all he needs is opportunity. In the two games that Zach Ertz missed due to injury this season, Burton posted lines of 2-41-1 and 5-71-2, including this work of art:

That’s Alec Ogletree and a safety that he beat for the score. Green Bay’s offense has excelled when they have had a tight end who could stretch the field, and Burton can do just that (he’s faster than Jermichael Finley). At a position where rookies rarely produce, the Packers will need someone like Burton who can step in and make an immediate impact.

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Comments (112)

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 17, 2018 at 03:40 pm

I will go with TE Trey Burton
why was there no mention of Jarvis Landry WR ?

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 17, 2018 at 03:48 pm

Paul Richardson WR seems good as well. What about Carlos Hyde RB !! That could be a solid RB Trio.
C. Hyde, A. Jones and J. Williams.

We definitely have to get any one of the 3 WRs.
1. Jarvis Landry
2. Paul Richardson
3. Allen Robinson.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 17, 2018 at 03:49 pm

I think i would skip on J. Graham and T. Eiphert

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dobber's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:41 pm

You would have to skip on a lot of things if you signed Hyde and Landry...

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 20, 2018 at 03:20 pm

Well were cutting. .randall cobb...Morgan burnett, clay matthews , b. Bulaga and possibly Jordy nelson just for starters. Lots to of money!

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CAG123's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:01 pm

Landry is a good slot guy but he doesn’t bring any speed to the team and the slot is kinda log jammed with Jordy potentially going there and Cobb and even Monty

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 12:28 am

Because Landry is a slot receiver and the Packers don't need a slot receiver.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 01:41 pm

Who is going to play the slot?
Cobb will be gone... Jordy could be gone..

So you dont even know who will be the 2nd and 3rd receivers. And, to be quite frank I still consider Davonte Adams ONLY a solid #2 WR.

You haven't played Geronimo at all. You dont know if your keeping Ty Montgomery as RB and or WR, plus he has been getting hurt all the time.

Janis SUCKS. They dont use Trevor Davis.

And, maybe, maybe, you may have a potential stsr in Michael Clark or he may just end up as another Jeff Janis.

Packers fans get your head out of your butts. OUR TEAM SUCKS!! Stop with this dream world mentality. Gosh dang it.

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:20 pm

Why will Cobb be gone? Chances are they'll restructure his deal, but nothing is a sure thing. Larry Fitzgerald, Reggie Wayne and Hines Ward looked like they were nearing the end, but they extended their careers by moving inside into the slot. I don't see why Jordy can't do the same.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 20, 2018 at 03:21 pm

GONE

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Turophile's picture

January 17, 2018 at 03:55 pm

I'd take a chance on the health of TE Eifert. The Packers need help here.

I'd also go for a CB, like the Patriots Malcolm Butler.

I picked Justin Pugh for G/T (best at guard).

That should be the more major pickups. Add some lower tier guys to fill spots as required.

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RobinsonDavis's picture

January 17, 2018 at 10:54 pm

When looking at projections like these, I feel it is important to have an idea of what the draft class brings. As much as I dread dipping the toe back into the Free Agent pool of Tight Ends, the Pack NEEDS to. The depth of the position in this years draft is ranked fairly low. Same for WRs. On a good note, there is fairly good depth at the OT & CBs (also D-line).

Yet, to contradict above, the Packers found Jordy in a very bad WR draft class, and last year's OTs were supposed to be poor, but I would say the Saints are VERY pleased with Ryan Ramczyk. So, it really depends on your scouting....which concerns me given the departures of some of our staff. GO PACK! GO GUTEKUNST!

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CAG123's picture

January 17, 2018 at 03:58 pm

Anyone with injury history they should stay far away from lord knows we have enough of that already

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:16 pm

I totally agree!!!

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Turophile's picture

January 17, 2018 at 05:24 pm

Never say never. Each case on it's merits. Generalisations are not one size fits all.

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CAG123's picture

January 17, 2018 at 06:01 pm

I agree but Eifert is just too much of a risk 5 seasons 20 TDs 13 coming in 2015 the potential is there but the guy has never played a full season and hasn’t played 15 since his rookie year. They want a TE they’d be better off going for the guy from Philly.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 17, 2018 at 09:58 pm

That's not a small part of the reasoning that has Casey Hayward in San Diego. Hayward was too injury prone so let him walk, or so the thinking went.

I wouldn't make a big commitment to a guy with an injury history but a short "prove it" deal is something to consider.

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Bedrock's picture

January 18, 2018 at 07:28 am

Charles Woodson

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:17 pm

Jarvis Landry WR Miami played out the final season of his rookie contract with 112 catches for 987 yards and nine touchdowns. His 400 catches through his first four seasons are the most in NFL history. The next closest is Anquan Boldin, who had 342.

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Pack88's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:21 pm

Elisha: I wrote about Richardson the other day- I also like Luke Wilson and Terrelle Pryor- would not break the bank and could be made to look special with 12 throwing the ball! I do like you back up QB thoughts

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Coldworld's picture

January 17, 2018 at 05:50 pm

We don’t need another possession receiver. We have to get a credible deep threat who can play tomorrow.

As to TE. We can hardly get worse. I’d consider any of those mentioned a the right price.

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Tundraboy's picture

January 17, 2018 at 07:00 pm

Pretty much sums it up for me.

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 12:31 am

Pryor was awful last year and overrated in Cleveland. I wouldn't touch him with a 10 foot pole.

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Spock's picture

January 19, 2018 at 10:40 am

How about a six foot Norwegian?

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mrtundra's picture

January 20, 2018 at 08:21 am

No such thing as a six foot Norwegian. LOL!

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:28 pm

Trey Burton _ 26 years old
Lawrence Burton III

Position: TE

6-3, 228lb (190cm, 103kg)

Team: Philadelphia Eagles

Kinda of a Tweener TE 228 lbs.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:00 pm

Seems kind of small for a tight end but they're tight ends suck already so I don't know

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dobber's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:06 pm

You've earned the prize for misusing all three forms of their/there/they're on the same blog thread. Congratulations.

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carlbs's picture

January 19, 2018 at 11:53 am

ROFL

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TKWorldWide's picture

January 19, 2018 at 06:12 pm

Glad I’m not the only one who notices that stuff.

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Roadrunner23's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:30 pm

If the Pack is going to spend some FA $$ I would prefer they spend it on an elite Defensive Stud rather than a handful of questionable Offensive players, Rodgers makes everybody better on Offense. Just look at the difference the Reggie White signing made in the Packers Defense. Say it with me...D-fence!

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worztik's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:56 pm

I agree oh great prognosticator...

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Coldworld's picture

January 17, 2018 at 05:54 pm

Recently I’d say he has made us merely decent. You can’t ask him to do everything with an ever diminishing cast.

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badaxed's picture

January 19, 2018 at 09:07 am

If we had receivers beside Adams who could actually get open and stretch the field (speed) Rodgers may not have to hold the ball so long and risk getting hurt again.

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Bearmeat's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:53 pm

Richardson is intriguing for sure, as is Wallace and Jaron Brown. I'd also be all over Burton. If ARob would cost a lot, no thanks. And he will. :(

No thank you to any high priced OG. The position is not important as long as you have "not dumpster fire" there.

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NickPerry's picture

January 18, 2018 at 04:55 am

I'm with BM...I'd love to see the Packers make a run at Richardson and Burton. Both could step in and contribute quickly and provide the Packers exactly what they need..Speed and ANY TE. Watching Burton fill in for Ertz had me thinking about him before the regular season ended. Same with Richardson.

I've ALWAYS been an Allen Robinson fan. If the Packers could sneak in and sign him to an incentive based contract and give him the opportunity to play with Rodgers, hopefully they could get him signed up for 4 more years before the season ended providing he's working out.

Richardson and Burton SHOULD be targets of Gutey.

Where BM and I differ is Guard. I wouldn't object to signing a pricier Guard. With Bulaga most likely out I'd want as good as I could get playing alongside who ever they plug in at RT. Protecting AR can't have a price tag put on it. Not after last season.

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Bearmeat's picture

January 19, 2018 at 06:35 pm

Yes NP, but how many of the sacks were on the starting OL? Hell, even the top 6-7 guys? It was when we got to guys 8-10 that we got in big trouble. And let's face it, any team starting OL #10 is going to get reckt.

Also, ARod and especially Hundley were to blame for IMHO about 1/2 the sacks last year...

Our top 5-7 were pretty good IMO. Let's put the money elsewhere where it's needed.

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worztik's picture

January 17, 2018 at 04:54 pm

If possible, draft our back up QB and a TE high in the rounds! TE in particular... maybe 2nd rd! I’d like to see Joe Callahan in the preseason to see if he should stick around. We should probably trade up so as to get as many top 75 players as we can. I’m a little wary of FA as it’s been used by TT so very little! It’s really an unknown as to how to work it with the salary cap! Just sayin’

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Coldworld's picture

January 17, 2018 at 06:06 pm

No more QB projects unless it’s a QB 3. Need a FA and draft a project. Get rid of both backups we have (I’d let Callahan compete though)

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fthisJack's picture

January 17, 2018 at 09:51 pm

we need an experienced QB that can come in and win games not a rookie. look what Hundley cost us this year.

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Bedrock's picture

January 18, 2018 at 07:34 am

It’s not just the QB that didn’t win. Seems the defense regressed with that collarbone injury.

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TKWorldWide's picture

January 19, 2018 at 06:17 pm

Sometimes a guy signs an extension to get some quick bonus money and the team gets cap relief. I call that:
Adjust payin’!!!

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EddieLeeIvory's picture

January 17, 2018 at 05:01 pm

Need one or two CORNERBACKS.
Like TE, CB is a position where NFL experience matters quite significantly.

There are many UFA CBs who A) won't break the bank, B) are certain upgrades over our pile of CBs, C) are still young, 27 or under.

Look to teams with good defenses like Buffalo, LA, KC, etc.
I wonder if there are any that Pettine has familiarity with.
Davon House, as much as I like him, I don't want to rely on him at all. He's slower than Ladarius Hunter was, but less physical.
Quinten Rollins 1st sport was basketball for a reason. He doesn't like contact.

Damarious Randall has the attitude of a star.
We need a complete overhaul if CBs almost. Two vets, a high pick CB, and Randall. Bring back Tramon too.
What a shame that Sam Shields head cracked AFTER Teddy let Hayward go.

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Coldworld's picture

January 17, 2018 at 05:58 pm

Rollins tackled well when he caught up. But he is a potential safety not an nfl CB. That aside, I agree

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Colin_C's picture

January 17, 2018 at 10:32 pm

I agree about Rollins. We should definitely try him at safety this year. Nothing to lose at this point. Who knows, maybe he'll even be half-way decent back there.

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fthisJack's picture

January 17, 2018 at 09:54 pm

i like Josh Jackson from Iowa...he may be the best CB in this draft and could be there at 14.

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4thand10's picture

January 19, 2018 at 10:47 am

If Josh Jackson is there, I absolutely agree. Or Da'Ron Payne.

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WKUPackFan's picture

January 18, 2018 at 04:03 am

Exactly who are these "many UFA CBs" that are available? Take a look at the spotrac list of free agent CBs. None of them, with the possible exceptions of Trumaine Johnson ($16.7 million last year) and Malcolm Butler (projected at $13.2 million per year) are "certain upgrades".

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cheesehead1's picture

January 17, 2018 at 05:08 pm

I wouldn’t sign Jimmy Graham, no way. Our biggest issues, as always are on D. Let’s finally improve and get a top 10 D.

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jeremyjjbrown's picture

January 18, 2018 at 07:58 am

I want to see what Kendricks can do in year 2. Early on he was behind Bennett, then when he got on the field Rodgers was out.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:03 pm

Dude our offense sucks we have no tight end to speak of our right tackle Beluga always hurt we have freaking no wide receivers but not the atoms is probably in the solid number 2 enjoy these probably a number 3 right now I don't know what you're talking about our offense sucks you got Jamaal Williams and Aaron Jones or just rookies it's not like you have Ezekiel Elliott or a Le'Veon Bell.

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dobber's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:07 pm

This man is a spoken-word poet...

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:29 pm

Anybody want to buy a phone this one absolutely sucks

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TKWorldWide's picture

January 19, 2018 at 09:23 pm

Hmmm.....very tempting.

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4thand1's picture

January 17, 2018 at 06:12 pm

What's all this FA talk. We don't know if we'll sign anybody yet. We still have to compete with the moronic teams that will overpay . We have one of the best QB's and have to lock him up plus our own FA's. We need a good vet that still can produce that's hungry for a ring. Maybe one that will sign a cap friendly deal because he already gouged some schmuck GM/owner in the past.

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NickPerry's picture

January 18, 2018 at 04:58 am

We signed our FA when we signed Adams and Lindsey. I'm torn on Burnett because if he's going to cost $11.4 a year to keep (His Projection) you can have him.

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:24 pm

They're going to need Burnett now more than ever with Pettine's complicated scheme.

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NitschkeFan's picture

January 17, 2018 at 06:50 pm

Very fun article as we enter the "silly season" and have nothing else to really do but speculate on free agency and the draft.

I really would be happy spending the first three draft picks on Edge rushers and CB's.

If they do that then your "offensive" free agents would be a great fit and any two of these guys would improve the team.

49ers G Brandon Fusco
Cardinals WR Jaron Brown
Titans G Josh Kline
Eagles TE Trey Burton

I look forward to you writing up a similar article on possible defensive free agent's within reach.

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 12:34 am

You can expect that article next Wednesday. Though the list will likely consist of more than 10 players.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 18, 2018 at 06:21 am

Good luck finding a pass-rushing OLB. Nobody on the Spotrac list of FA OLBs had more than 5 sacks.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 01:49 pm

We are supposed to get an extra
3rd round compensatory pick
and 3 more 5th round compensatory picks.

I would probably take a TE,T or WR with the extra 3rd round pick.

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stockholder's picture

January 17, 2018 at 07:44 pm

Non-sense. Trey Burton has Bennet written all over him. You can't get guys that are already in the playoffs. Their use to winning. You need guys sick of losing. Or sign your own, (Richard Rogers.) Austin sef Jenkins needs a fresh start. The talent is there. So is the dilly dilly. Moore at Qb sounds better. And I still would take a shot at Demarcus Lawerence before drafting a DE. /Pass Rusher. At WR- Latimer, Moncrief and Brown are good choices. Whatever- the choice, Make them run the 40.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 18, 2018 at 06:25 am

Guys want to win, they want to play and they want to get paid. Any of the 3 can be an enticement for a change of scenery.

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CAG123's picture

January 17, 2018 at 07:41 pm

In a perfect world Packers get Cobb, Nelson, and CM3 to restructure they are able to snag Martavis Bryant and Trey Burton and have very little holes to fill offensively and roll into the draft with clear cut needs at edge rusher, CB, MLB (yeah that’s right), RT and guard (Sigh) if only

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 12:44 am

Martavis Bryant would likely have been on the list, until I saw that he is not a free agent until 2019.

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CAG123's picture

January 18, 2018 at 12:52 am

Really? He was drafted in 2014 in the 4th round so he doesn’t get a 5th year option, he’s in the same draft as Devate Adams. Did his suspension give him another year? Serious question

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 12:56 am

Yes, his contract tolled for a year, since he was suspended. This will be his 4th year by contract standards.

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CAG123's picture

January 18, 2018 at 01:17 am

Ahh thanks for the clarification

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Strikes28's picture

January 17, 2018 at 08:09 pm

I like the analysis and I like the top two choices in Burton and Richardson. Like both of those guys. A Guard signing would be nice too with hopefully salary restructures from Jordy, Cobb and Matthews. Then they could address edge rusher, CB and RT in the draft .

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Strikes28's picture

January 17, 2018 at 08:09 pm

I like the analysis and I like the top two choices in Burton and Richardson. Like both of those guys. A Guard signing would be nice too with hopefully salary restructures from Jordy, Cobb and Matthews. Then they could address edge rusher, CB and RT in the draft .

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Since91's picture

January 17, 2018 at 08:37 pm

Norwell is a bad dude at RG.... Coupled with a first round RT say McGlinchey or Brown....Can you guys say better oline than the 90s cowboys!!!
Protect the man at all costs and all we need is a little luck and another Lombardi
Screw WR in the first round or defense!

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CheesyTex's picture

January 17, 2018 at 10:13 pm

Stay away from McGlinchey. If you want a baller from ND go Quinten Nelson at guard.

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RobinsonDavis's picture

January 17, 2018 at 11:35 pm

Staying away from McGlinchey is not wise IMO as he could move down to play guard too, but needs to add a little weight. Nelson is very intriguing, huge, and played left tackle as a junior.

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qotsa1's picture

January 17, 2018 at 10:35 pm

Trey Burton would be my first choice. After that I would like them to go after Taylor Gabriel. This team needs some speed on offense.

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 12:49 am

Gabriel is intriguing but he is not a traditional downfield threat. He's more of a threat to take a screen pass 60 yards to the house than he is to catch a 60 yard pass behind the defense. The Packers are better off acquiring a traditional downfield specialist in the mold of Ted Ginn.

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qotsa1's picture

January 17, 2018 at 10:35 pm

Trey Burton would be my first choice. After that I would like them to go after Taylor Gabriel. This team needs some speed on offense.

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David Aures's picture

January 18, 2018 at 12:37 am

THIS IS WHAT I WOULD LIKE F.A.
WR. John Brown
TE. Burton
G. Norwell
CB. Kyle Fuller
S. Eric Reid

Draft
Harold Landry (Pass Rusher)
Then draft CB's, WR, OLB, TE, G, RT

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croatpackfan's picture

January 18, 2018 at 06:09 am

"It is very difficult to get production at the position (TE) from a rookie."

"At a position (TE) where rookies rarely produce, the Packers will need someone like Burton who can step in and make an immediate impact."

Adam Shaheen (12 rec,, 127 y, 10.6 avg, 31 long, 3 TD),
Evan Engram (64, 722, 11.3, 35, 6), George Kittle (43, 515, 12, 44, 2), Gerald Everett (16, 244, 15.3, 69, 2), Ricky Seals-Jones (16, 244, 15.3, 69, 2) are rookies with impact to their teams during 2017 season.

I would also like to mention Hunter Henry, who had stats from his rookie season (2016) like this: 36 rec, 478 yards, 13.3 avg,, 59 longest catch and 8 TD...

Your claiming about rookie TEs are not quite on spot is not true by stats I gave you. Also, I think there is more very capable young TE in 2018 draft, so I would prefere Packers go into drafting TE rather than overpaying FA...

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croatpackfan's picture

January 18, 2018 at 06:06 am

Mark Andrews, TE, Oklahoma. Troy Fumagalli, TE, UW, Dallas Goedert, TE, South Dakota State U, Mike Gesicki, TE, Penn State, Dalton Schultz, TE, Stanford, Hayden Hurst, TE, South Carolina, Jaylen Samuels, TE/H-back, N.C. State are all intriguing candidates, by my opinion and they should be available from 2nd - 4th round...

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 01:54 pm

We get an extra third-round compensatory pick I would definitely probably take a tight end in the third

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dobber's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:05 pm

Yes. Definitely probably...

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TKWorldWide's picture

January 19, 2018 at 09:26 pm

Certainly maybe.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 20, 2018 at 03:30 pm

Definitely, probably , maybe, i think!

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:30 pm

Only two of the players you listed (Evan Engram/Hunter Henry) had even somewhat significant production as rookies, and both were first round picks. Most of the instances of TEs producing at a starter level has been with first rounders, and I don't see the Packers taking one with the 14th pick. Throwing out names of players who didn't even reach 300 yards doesn't disprove what I said, in fact it helps make the case.

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Handsback's picture

January 18, 2018 at 07:54 am

Green Bay needs pass rushers and CBs on defense and WR/TEs on offense. They can draft guys at all of these positions, but how many actually perform at those positions as rookies....the answer is very few.

That's where FA comes in to play and I don't expect the Packers to sign big-time starters at every one of those spots because they can't afford to...
So here is what I would put as priority:
Pass Rusher
CB
TE
WR
That being said, how many pass rushers will hit the market? I doubt that Green Bay signs any because they won't have deep enough pockets. I could see a CB signed that's better than House. It will be expensive, but cheaper than that pass rusher.

Next signing should be a TE. Green Bay doesn't have enough quality or numbers on their roster right now. Burton, Austin Seferin-Jenkins, Troy Niklas, and Niels Paul are all still young and cheap (relative).
For WR either Brown would be good and would add Bryce Butler into the mix. Youth and speed, again rookies take time to develop and the Packers are probably going to lose one of their starters this year.

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HankScorpio's picture

January 18, 2018 at 08:01 am

I'd be curious to see if they pursue Sammy Watkins at all. He fits the profile of the two biggest recent FA success stories for the Packers (Woodson, Peppers) in that he has all the talent in the world. He'll probably stay in LA. They have plenty of cap room and will want to build on their success in 2017. But I can't see them using the franchise tag on him.

He'll likely be expensive. He's not posted huge numbers but he's done enough and he's young enough to make one believe he'll have a robust market. They would probably have to cut Cobb and Nelson outright to make the room for him and the other things that need to be done this offseason. But I wouldn't have a real problem with a WR group of Watkins, Adams, Montgomery, Allison and Clark for 2018.

It sure would be a "splash" move. High risk with the potential for high reward. Or blowing up in their face.

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:32 pm

I don't think they should go anywhere near Watkins. He's going to be an expensive player who lost a lot of his speed and explosiveness to lower body injuries. The risk here is way too high.

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DD's picture

January 18, 2018 at 08:23 am

Draft badgers TE. Tough, fast, durable! Why not? Fouth or fifth round? Thoughts?

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RCPackerFan's picture

January 18, 2018 at 08:25 am

This is where I'd love to see Gutekunst do some work.

The one person that I think would be great in Green Bays offense is Jimmy Graham. While he didn't live up to expectations in Seattle, you have to start with the QB. Yeah Wilson is probably a top 15 QB in the league, but he is not Rodgers.

If they brought Graham in, I think he has a Jared Cook like impact on the offense (when Cook was healthy).

McCarthy has experience in using TE's like Graham with Finley and Cook. I think Graham's numbers would improve a ton coming to Green Bay.

I'd love to see them go out and get a speedy dynamic type of WR. Get a guy who could stretch the field. John Brown or Richardson would be great.

But if the price was right Allen Robinson could turn our offense into an unstoppable one. His price should be low and he might be willing to take a lower smaller contract to work with a great QB like Rodgers.

I doubt they will go after any WR, but if they did it could really improve the offense.

I would prefer them to look at TE and OL in FA for the offense.

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croatpackfan's picture

January 18, 2018 at 10:35 am

RCP there is several draft prospects faster than Graham, larger than Graham and more sure hands than Graham...

Jimmy is past...

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RCPackerFan's picture

January 18, 2018 at 11:37 am

True Croat.

But none of them have the experience as Graham.

My solution. Sign Graham and draft a TE higher (first 3 rounds) to eventually replace Graham.
TE's don't usually come into the NFL and dominate their first season. It takes them a few years to develop. So why not have a guy that can still produce and with Rodgers he absolutely would, and groom a guy to work with him and replace him in a few years.

While Graham maybe was a better player he can still play. He led the TE's with 10 TD's, and only 7 TE's had more 20+ yard plays then Graham.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 01:51 pm

Teams are going to put the franchise tag on a lot of these players. So, don't get your hopes up.

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dobber's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:04 pm

Usually, fewer than 1/3 of all teams use their franchise tags in a given year. I don't think it's likely that any of these players (in the top 10 group) are going to get tagged that way...that's guaranteeing many of them a huge raise, much higher than they'll get on the open market.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:23 pm

Well that would be nice

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:35 pm

Jared Cook and Jermichael Finley had such huge impacts with Green Bay due to their speed. Jimmy Graham just is not fast any more. At this point, as a player he's closer to the Martellus Bennett that played for the Packers than the Jimmy Graham that played for the Saints.

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Gute's picture

January 18, 2018 at 11:34 am

Burton, but don't break the bank. Re-sign Rodgers and give Kendricks the heave-ho.

McCray will probably be the RG.

RT is wide open and needs to be addressed. Quit hoping guys will finally get it and perform. Lock down the other tackle spot with proven play.

I'm not sure about Hundley. Asking any second string QB to win games like a starter, but without a great defense is asking a lot. Maybe bring in Fitzpatrick.

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Muenstermugger's picture

January 18, 2018 at 11:34 am

Wonder if Jeff Janis has ever been considered as a defensive safety or corner? Schields make this move.

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ElishaTwerski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:38 pm

I don't think RT is wide open. If Bulaga is healthy, he is one of the 3 best RTs in the game. However, given his injury history, they do need to have a very strong backup at the position.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 03:20 pm

Buluga is more of a back up now and he will have to take a pay cut...he is at 7 million a year..... aint gonna happen as a back up....Clay Matthews is also a backup. ..big pay cut for him as well.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 20, 2018 at 03:33 pm

These are just names.. just names now.. that's it.
Like favre, butler, levens, woodson, kgb ,nitchke,

They all suck now. They are done!!!

Too old or inj too much.
C.Mathews
R.cobb
bulaga
Nelson

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 01:52 pm

Shields could run routes he just couldn't catch the ball Janice can catch the ball but he can't run routes

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 01:53 pm

, Sam Shields is trying to make a comeback for 2018 I know he's had a lot of concussions and maybe we should take a chance on getting them what the heck everybody else sucks

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:06 pm

Deondre Hopkins..This is a #1 receiver!
Regular Season
96 Receptions
1,378 Total Yards
14.4 YPC
13 TD

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:11 pm

Just for everyone's info.

"It is believed that Jarvis Landry is seeking a contract in the range of the new deal recently signed by Green Bay’s Davante Adams.” Adams received a four year, $58 million contract from the Packers. It includes an $18 million signing bonus, but nothing else fully guaranteed."

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 02:22 pm

I wonder if Reggie Gilbert will improve next year to make the team he showed some signs of doing some good things and surprisingly so did Kyle fackrell but those are probably just reaches. I wish we could have seen a healthy montravius Adams as well. We just have to get a pass rush.

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 18, 2018 at 03:13 pm

"Jarvis Landry is almost exclusively a slot receiver, which could discount his value. Robinson and Watkins have both missed big chunks of playing time with major injuries.

Determining value in NFL free agency is a twisted mix of supply and demand, recent production and projection to the future. At the very least, Adams and his $58 million extension helped raise the bar for his receiver colleagues around the league."

Paul Richardson is a good option as well....up and coming! !

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Schonejl's picture

January 18, 2018 at 07:00 pm

Can I ask why we don't need a OT in the next year?

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Doug Niemczynski's picture

January 20, 2018 at 03:34 pm

We have No Right Tackle ..no one! !!

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rstain99's picture

January 20, 2018 at 07:52 am

Defense, defense defense. If you can get a deal on TE sure but don't break the bank. Get a stud CB. Thought that might be Butler in NE but he had a terrible year value is going to drop sucks to be him. Look at Jags they are playing in big game this weekend all because of defense, offense is average at best. Hoping new DC will bring some direction to this team on that side of ball find a shutdown corner and the rest will work.

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TKWorldWide's picture

January 20, 2018 at 10:37 am

How can any Patriot have a terrible year?

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rstain99's picture

January 20, 2018 at 07:52 am

Defense, defense defense. If you can get a deal on TE sure but don't break the bank. Get a stud CB. Thought that might be Butler in NE but he had a terrible year value is going to drop sucks to be him. Look at Jags they are playing in big game this weekend all because of defense, offense is average at best. Hoping new DC will bring some direction to this team on that side of ball find a shutdown corner and the rest will work.

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mrtundra's picture

January 20, 2018 at 08:37 am

Since this is Gutekunst's first year as GM, we do not know what his draft board or FA needs look like. Who sides he like at #14? Will he move up in the draft? Will he gamble in FA? No one knows, yet. He knows he will be under the microscope this off season. Let him breathe!

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