Packers continue adding defensive pieces, bring in Preston Smith

The veteran is a quality all-around linebacker with plenty of starting experience.

Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst isn't wasting any time adding talent to the defensive side of the ball. 

Having already signed edge rusher Za'Darius Smith and safety Adrian Amos, Gutekunst landed a third defensive free agent on Tuesday morning, bringing in former Washington Redskins edge rusher Preston Smith. 

Washington selected Smith in the second round of the 2015 draft. The outside linebacker started 50 of the 64 games he played in over his first four years. For his career he has 168 tackles, 24.5 sacks, four interceptions and four forced fumbles.

By adding two edge rushers early in free agency, the Packers give themselves some breathing room early in the draft by allowing themselves to focus on adding the best possible talent rather than having to reach for what was a glaring need.

 

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.

__________________________

4 points
 

Comments (138)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
TheLegendary52's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:44 am

WOW! Just Wow!

6 points
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J0hn Denver's Gavel's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:45 am

Wow!

3 points
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carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:59 am

Another wow. Wow. !! Going to be a fun year.

1 points
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holmesmd's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:46 am

Now get Breeland done and we should be one hell of a defense! I guess CMII & Perry are movin on down the road. They were good Packers and I wish them both the best! What an exciting morning!!

5 points
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jeepingmakooi's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:46 am

I'm loving it

4 points
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Rak43's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:53 pm

I think most fans except maybe ALP agree with you. People can say what they want about Gute but he is not Ted Thompson by any stretch of the imagination. He is not afraid to try and win for fear of losing.

2 points
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Handsback's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:46 am

I think this means Perry and CMIII are out. The Smith gang doesn't have to be all-pro....just consistent. Look at that dline as the Packers first pick in the draft.

7 points
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Cubbygold's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:00 am

Why not have Wilkerson back on a cheap prove-it deal and use the pick elsewhere? with a much improved LB group, along with Clark/Daniels/Lowry, just wondering if DL is the biggest need right now.

5 points
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stockholder's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:21 am

No to Wilkerson. He's used up. - The packers were in on Malik Jackson. They need to draft this position early.

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:49 am

Wilkerson compares favorably to Jackson except for last season’s injury, and he could be signed for a fraction of what Jackson costs.

Then again, this is a pretty good draft for Dlinemen.

3 points
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SterlingSharpe's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:08 am

Mo WIlkerson will be back.

-1 points
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Minniman's picture

March 12, 2019 at 02:37 pm

At a minimum Wilkerson can be trusted to keep his opponent honest and on the upside can be disruptive.

There's no doubting that his replacement is waiting in this draft but a prove-it deal for Wilkerson gives that person time to season, the Packers a very solid rotational d-lineman for a year (or 2) and Wilkerson his shot at rebuilding his profile.

Win.Win.Win. If able, bring him back.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:45 pm

Quite a few five techniques inthis draft. Go there for help at a lower contract cost.

0 points
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dobber's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:21 am

I don't see how they keep Perry at this point.

5 points
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stockholder's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:28 am

Saw another tweet their releasing him. CBS Updates.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:47 am

Ted has left the building. Pettine wants ready-to-play guys and they can get another edge guy in the draft and move on Devin Smith for the ILB spot.

5 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:47 am

Devin White.

8 points
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stockholder's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:51 am

Easy mistake with all the excitement. The moves are so huge!

4 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:48 am

I’ve been saying for ages that we needed two premium signings here. Still think we need a third addition from somewhere to provide depth unless they keep Perry. The Fackrell makes 4.

Love the Amos signing. Now if we can pick up a lower level safety and or guard later in the process, if we have the cap space.

Excellent moves at first blush without knowing terms

1 points
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carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:03 am

Draft Nasir Adderley.

1 points
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carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:05 am

Not sure if anyone agrees, but draft another high quality cover corner who can play tight man and not afraid to tackle.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:47 pm

Absolutely need another CB. Crazy Tony is not the answer.

0 points
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kevgk's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:48 am

This opens up best player availible at that draft. That could easily be a dline, oline, or TE.
I don't see these guys as the stud dominant edge guy a lot of people think we need, but I think thats just the perspective of a more traditional 3-4 capers D. Look at the guys the Jets had on the edge with Pettine. This can still be a dominating D with these guys in rotation.

8 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:59 am

We need disruption. I’d love sacks, but buckle the pocket and flush the QB and maybe we will stop making borderline QBs look like hall of famers. If these two do approximately what they have before AND we give Amos some depth at safety then our CBs become a weapon. We already have a good D line.

5 points
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dobber's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:22 am

Smiths on the edge and Clark/Daniels up the gut. Sounds good to me!

3 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

March 12, 2019 at 06:18 pm

Damn straight, dobber. I haven't been this excited since Barry and Barty.Okay, so Barty never got to the edge, but you know what I mean.

0 points
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lucky953's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:16 am

I’d like to see them take Hockensen. An Iowa kid who is as close to plug-and-play as you’ll ever see at that position and would be an immediate upgrade to the offense. Then I’d like to see Dalton Risner or Andre Dillard added—and obviously they need an RB somehow.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:49 pm

Za Smith can also rush from the inside spot and play in coverage.

0 points
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Cubbygold's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:56 am

This tells me that GB has a ton of faith in their young WRs and/or have decided that Rodgers needs to figure out a way to make it work.

Always wondered if the right solution was to counter 12s big contract by building an elite offense, or investing the rest of their money on the defensive side. Looks like we have our answer.

Given these moves, I think one of the first round picks needs to be OL

1 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:02 am

It tells me that they knew, just as we did, that OLB rush threat and Safety were holes that doomed us. All it tells us at receiver is that it’s not seen as a bigger hole, which I think is fairly obvious. This makes the draft a lot more interesting.

3 points
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dobber's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:23 am

In all honesty, this makes just about any position fair game at #12. They could even go WR at that point if there's one they really covet (but I think you're right in that the odds-on favorite for the pick is now OL if there's one they really like).

3 points
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bjoost's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:03 pm

now its BPA at #12...Any position.... OR trade down 5-6 spots and take the first TE and get another high pick!!!! Gutey has all his options now at #12:)

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:51 pm

I would take a WR with a three pick if they go TE and OL in the first Rd and safety in the second rd.

0 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 07:28 pm

Dobber,
I agree these signings have likely changed how the Pack is approaching the draft. Now they could have luxury of an exotic draft choice that might be a WR, TE, or RB early. Someone you wouldn't have dreamed they would have taken in round 1 prior to FA signings.

Hold tight and hang on come draft time. Who knows what direction they might go now in round 1.

0 points
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crayzpackfan's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:30 am

That’s definitely what it’s looking like. 12 and 30 are looking more and more like OL and TE. I’m loving this new look off season Packers. Gute is becoming the Cheese Wiz. If ever a wiz there was. :)

4 points
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Ferrari Driver's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:56 am

I'm really glad to see this happen. For the Packers to rebound it is paramount that they select the best players remaining on their board when that critical 12 selection come up. I think there is a realistic possibility that a difference maker at LB like White or perhaps a DL like Oliver will be available. If not, we sure can use a TE like Hockenson would be solid for the new offense.

5 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:06 am

If there is a leading need it is now safety/ILB, depending on Burkes’ and Jones true assessment by the team and how Pettine really wants to address the area of central field coverage.

That does open the door to a much more BPA led approach.

1 points
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Cubbygold's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:09 am

I'd argue the leading need is the right side of the o-line

5 points
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Cubbygold's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:11 am

although it looks like they did just add another decent guard, so maybe not!

3 points
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Ferrari Driver's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:56 am

I'm really glad to see this happen. For the Packers to rebound it is paramount that they select the best players remaining on their board when that critical 12 selection come up. I think there is a realistic possibility that a difference maker at LB like White or perhaps a DL like Oliver will be available. If not, we sure can use a TE like Hockenson would be solid for the new offense.

2 points
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Ferrari Driver's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:57 am

I'm really glad to see this happen. For the Packers to rebound it is paramount that they select the best players remaining on their board when that critical 12 selection come up. I think there is a realistic possibility that a difference maker at LB like White or perhaps a DL like Oliver will be available. If not, we sure can use a TE like Hockenson would be solid for the new offense.

0 points
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scullyitsme's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:02 am

As a packer fan, I have no idea how react with this news, I have been beat down not to expect anything for Christmas for so many years, the presents came, they really came. Thank you guteaclaus.

9 points
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BradHTX's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:42 am

Great comment, made me spit my coffee. Have fun getting those OLBs down the chimney at ~250lbs.

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:58 am

Well....decisive moves by our GM to strengthen the defense. That's three starters. Perry will almost certainly be traded/released.

That's gotta be most of our FA dough. I think we can rule out an OLB at #12 (finally, thank God).

We still need more help at safety, but most of our Preferred Gameday 21 are under contract now.

This kind of sets us up to do something in the draft with the offense. Obviously, if we're going to run double-TE sets we're going to need a TE. We could use a starting RG and a starting-ready OT. One more back to share the load. A QB for the future.

LMAO moment: We fired McCarthy over the offense's failures and go out and get help for the defense.

1 points
3
2
stockholder's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:05 am

Perry is getting released.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:07 am

Failure of the offense may not have been perceived to have been due to the player quality but to their usage ...

4 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:18 am

I don’t follow the Perry logic. The only way to meaningfully reduce his cap hit is to PAY him his bonus and release in summer. So the payment is not relevant in that sense unless they are willing to take 3 million saving, find further depth (Fackrell is a different player type) for the new signings, believe Gilbert or Donnerson can be that.

That leaves either 3 million for a replacement and 11 million of dead cap and save real cash bonus or you keep him, give him 5 mill in real cash then cut him in summer to gain a ten million cap benefit.

Based on that, It seems more logical to keep him as OLB 3/4 with Fackrell and draft prospects to develop and compete with Gilbert and Donnerson. I can also see Fackrell possibly doing some less traditional OLB work given his coverage attributes now.

-1 points
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1
jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:58 pm

Post June 1st designation saves the team cash for 2019. He can use that cash on 2019 rookie deals. The other part of the dead money moves to 2020 when the CAP will move up to 190-200 M. Daniels and Taylor's contracts are done at the close of 2019 and probably will not be extended.
Gutekunst is covered and it looks like Ball has been put in his place in the deal-making department.

0 points
0
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Demon's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:40 am

That was only 1 in a laundry list of reasons why MM was canned.
1 failed to properly utilize roster.
2 Terrible game management.
3 failure to hire and manage quality asst coaches.
4 held onto piss poor asst coaches. Does anyone need an example?
5. Ran a country club atmosphere where no one feared for their job.
6. Ran a stale, used up, outdated offense.
7. Failure to change with the times.
8. Lost the respect of his team.
9. Was frequently outcoached, especially in the playoffs.

Would anyone like to add?

2 points
5
3
Trapped-in-MN-BUT-GB-fan's picture

March 12, 2019 at 02:18 pm

Don’t forget-he couldn’t get the players to stay at the right pad level. He himself said that several times.
In Minnesota they’re all pissed off that GB is pulling this off. They’re still complaining about Cousins contract and play. Also, lots of hating on their coach and GM because of all the players they had to let go. Enjoyable state to be in today.

6 points
6
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 04:51 pm

Yes, I'm a denizen of the Land of shipwrecks and plenty of venom on the radio waves. Barr just came back, so they put the Jug down for a couple of minutes.

0 points
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0
BlackHawk's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:33 pm

10. Same old excuses at every press conference following a loss.

0 points
1
1
carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:49 pm

Skipped meetings.

0 points
0
0
Slim11's picture

March 13, 2019 at 06:50 am

Reason #(somewhere in the low to mid-teens!). Ran soft training camps and gave players too much time off.

1 points
1
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 07:35 pm

OS,
I hope now Gutey drafts the BPA at #12 regardless of position. If the best player is an edge rusher by all means draft him.

I think you would agree #12 for any of the TE's is too high. I would think if that was who the Pack wanted with their first selection they would trade back a few spots don't you think?

I always felt MM's biggest problem was he lacked creativity and wasn't able to properly assess the talent on the team and put them in position to be successful. I have a hunch LF will take the current talent and maximize how they are used in addition to the additions thru FA and draft.

In terms of your starting RG....I continue to remain hopeful Madison comes back hungry with a chip on his shoulder wanting to prove something. I say look for a 'gotcha' surprise draft choice in the first three selections. Gute will now draft a player we would never have guessed following FA. Exciting!

-2 points
1
3
Mojo's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:01 am

These signings mean they might feel they don't have to draft edge at 12. So they can move back a little and maybe pick up an extra second.

They could then pick BPA at that point and not feel they're overdrafting a guy like Hockenson for example.

For what they might do, the permutations are endless at this point.

3 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:01 pm

The #12 will be a ten year guy, hopefully. The # 30 can cover FS, Edge, Guard, RB, WR, TE The 2018 deal has now come in focus for the Fans.
Le Fleur can now work the offense the way he sees fit. Taylor may be moved next?

0 points
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Turophile's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:20 pm

Very possible, Mojo. They could even sell their #12, maybe to another team who badly wants to move up and will pay their 1st this year and next year, for the privilege.

Now I'm sure some fans would hate to move back from #12, but it would give the Packers another good year next year, with 2 x 1st picks again.

1 points
1
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 07:37 pm

They would never draft Hock at #12. If that was their choice I would think he would trade back a few selections and then take Hock. May be wrong but think they would take Fant before Hock.

1 points
1
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carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:56 pm

True, but we don’t know the teams picking ahead of the Packers board looks like. The TE’s might be real high on their boards. You just never know. If you like a guy at 12 take him. He could go the next pick after you.

0 points
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Evergreenpacker's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:08 am

Great Moves! Let's see those contract numbers.

1 points
1
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stockholder's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:11 am

P. Smith 4 yrs. 52 I saw a tweet. No. confirmed

0 points
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dobber's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:24 am

4/$52 sounds pretty good!

0 points
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PeteK's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:34 am

21 guaranteed the first two years for Preston , 16 for Amos, Numbers not released on Za, but should be similar to Preston , I hope. I my opinion pretty good contracts because guaranteed money is fair.

0 points
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Office@twitterrealityshow.com's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:47 pm

Still waiting for not just good players but IMPACT plsuers

0 points
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Dragon5's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:10 am

OG Rodger Saffold & DT Darius Philon hopefully next two FA signings. Then if BPA isn't quite to our liking we have the luxury to trade back multiple times to really stock roster with good young depth in the first 4 rounds.

OL is now a priority with NFC North foes DL / EDGE talent.

0 points
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1
PeteK's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:38 am

I believe we should be done because we need to leave some money for draft picks. TE and O line will finally get some youth!

0 points
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Roadrunner23's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:11 am

Gute is probably kickin back with a smoke and a beer after all this!

0 points
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1
michaelturi's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:18 am

Not a bad day's work, and it's only 10;15 am

2 points
2
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sonomaca's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:42 am

Ted would still be asleep at this point.

-1 points
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carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:59 pm

He should be. Wish I could have one with him to scole.

0 points
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Rebecca.S's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:11 am

Wow! Gute is not a TT clone! I like having more flexibility in the draft - pick a true difference maker not for need.

0 points
1
1
RCPackerFan's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:14 am

Also of note, Smith played in all 64 games. He has been very durable!

This is a huge signing. Signing these 3 guys should help bring some consistency to the defense. Also it should give the defense a much better.

0 points
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carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:00 pm

Don’t jinx us RC. lol

0 points
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0
Lphill's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:15 am

Billy Turner guard from Broncos coming.

0 points
1
1
michaelturi's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:16 am

Billy Taylor= RT?

-1 points
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2
sonomaca's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:27 am

These moves tell me:

1) Gute doesn’t think Burns will make it to #12

2) The safeties in the draft aren’t great

3) Gute is targeting Jawan Taylor or one of the other tackles...or Hock or DK.

-1 points
0
1
Dragon5's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:43 am

For a kid born in FL and played college in FL, I hope Taylor don't mind the cold.

-1 points
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BradHTX's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:57 am

I think this is partially but not entirely true. I was also going to post that the signing of both Smiths indicates they think both Sweat/Burns will be gone at #12, and none of the others are capable of being quality day 1 starters.

But I don’t think it means they don’t like the safeties. I think by adding 2 OLBs, a S, and an OL in free agency, they have positioned themselves to be able to truly take the best player available regardless of position at each pick. Which is really smart.

2 points
2
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sonomaca's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:17 am

Many ways to go. Oliver is a Daniels replacement. DK and Hock are special talents. Need a right tackle. Pettine loves speedy ILB’s.

Priority has to be tackle. None of it matters if Rodgers goes down.

The other possibility is that they’re now able to get in in Rosen action.

-1 points
0
1
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:27 pm

Brad,
It is fun speculating and none of us know for sure what Gute will do in the draft. However, IMO I don't think what Gute did in FA will dictate what he does in the draft. I think what FA has done is it now makes other teams not sure who the Pack may want to draft in round 1 minimizing predictability, thereby eliminating someone trading up a position or two above the Pack to take a player they want. I think Gute now has freedom to truly take the BPA, or he has a true luxury pick at either #12 or #30 that he didn't before. I predict he will select a player that might really shock some of us. I do not think FA means he doesn't think a Burns or someone will not be available at all. I mean FA isn't over yet and there is no way he knows for sure what will happen between now and our #12 selection.

He might draft Burns, White, Oliver, Gary, Fant, an OL, or even surprise....surprise...here comes the down votes....he might even be crazy enough to draft a Kyler Murray, or a Metcalf, or Hakeem Butler somewhere in round 1.

For me the draft just got a lot more exciting and less predictable. Gute now is going to have a lot of fun.

0 points
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0
jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:08 pm

Burns does not merit a #12 selection. His strength is his burst, not a strong guy. He would need to develop.

-2 points
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2
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:30 pm

Partially disagree!

He is 20-years old and putting on muscle and weight. He will have another growth spurt. He definitely is worthy of a #12.

I do agree right now he is more a speed and agile player vs. strength. He would need to develop but with the Smiths he can do that.

0 points
0
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Swisch's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:30 am

Good news for Hockenson fans (e.g. Doug N.), if he's still around at #12 -- if not, maybe Fant.
Also, we may have to take Adderley at #30 or risk him being gone by #44.
In any case, more flexibility on draft day!
Please, let's not forget the offensive line to protect Rodgers!

0 points
1
1
sonomaca's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:35 am

Short list at #12 (assuming Burns gone). DK, Jawan, Oliver, White.

Trade down for Hock, Fant, or Bush.

I think they want DK Metcalf. Wrecks defenses even if he never catches a pass.

-1 points
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PeteK's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:48 am

In order to wreck defenses we need excellent blocking , so TE (Hock) and O lineman are needed. Also get a young CB instead of Breeland.

2 points
3
1
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:32 pm

100% agree!

Those TE's would require a trade down. Not worthy of a #12 though Fant would be close. Guy is special!

I posted above look for a luxury pick that might surprise everyone like a Metcalf or a Kyler Murray, etc. I think Gute now has the ability to make a luxury pick at either #12 or #30. Fun!

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:37 am

Increasingly good news for BPA fans rather than anything else.

Didn’t think I’d be able to say that this year.

4 points
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sonomaca's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:37 am

Another possibility...

White and Bush in first round...trade Martinez.

-2 points
1
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sonomaca's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:37 am

Another possibility...

White and Bush in first round...trade Martinez.

-4 points
1
5
Packer_Fan's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:41 am

Ok, we just got an understanding of Gute's plans. I always thought that two OLB FA signings were needed. And also draft an edge. And it doesn't have to be at 12. For the cupboard is bare. And sad to see Matthews leave.

Then safety. Amos is a good signing. We should release Williams and sign Breeland. Then draft a safety high. Then Jones, Campbell or Jackson/Brown transfer will be backup.

Gute also chose reliable veterans. That's good. Interested to see the prices paid.

And now onto Oline.

4 points
4
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:12 pm

FS from the draft. It may be Breeland vs. Tramon lr a Three pick? Jackson should stay at CB. He is not a hitter.

0 points
0
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crayzpackfan's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:45 am

Finally!! GB walked into a bar and left with the pretty gal. Because of today, makes the draft insanely interesting and exciting. Everything feels so fresh with new coaches, new players, and tons of draft picks. Let the honeymoon phase begin.

1 points
3
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BradHTX's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:03 am

Of course, that “pretty gal” weighs 250, can break you over her knee, and has a suspicious Adam’s apple...

1 points
2
1
crayzpackfan's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:10 am

Just have your buddy take her home the next day. Lol

0 points
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1
gary g's picture

March 13, 2019 at 06:00 am

Thats funny

0 points
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0
rstain99's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:57 am

Pettine must be jacked, he must have been allowed to pick (Bill Parcels) the groceries this will be fun in the fall. now they have some flexibility either Iowa TE plus another stud defender bring back big Mo for another prove it year on dline. Breeland in the back end. WOW where is my GB hat wear it proud

1 points
1
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stockholder's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:12 am

You don't stop building the defense! Wilkerson must be replaced. And who plays next to Martinez?

2 points
2
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Jonathan Spader's picture

March 12, 2019 at 05:23 pm

Oren Burks

2 points
2
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PeteK's picture

March 13, 2019 at 07:50 am

In todays passing happy offenses , its usually a nickel CB.

0 points
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splitpea1's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:09 am

In with the new and out with the old! This is wonderful! Here's hoping these guys have been as durable as they have been in the past. And best of all, the Packers now have some flexibility to add the best prospects and do some wheeling and dealing in the draft. I was getting worried they might be sitting on their hands like they've done in the past, but it's nice to see a couple of these chronic needs filled, at least on paper.

3 points
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JohnnyLogan's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:15 am

At 12... Hock, White, Oliver... or do we get "Greedy?" Top corner in the draft.

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SterlingSharpe's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:39 am

Oliver or Devin White at 12 if both available.... would be a tough call.

Ed Oliver doesn't remind me of Aaron Donald but more-so Gerald McCoy, and that's great.

Devin White could be the best ILB in the NFL in 2 years, he's that talented.

I'm just trying to picture which would help make the defense best. Adding a Bobby Wagner or a Gerald McCoy. It's a tough call. I think the every-down inside backer might be more valuable in Pettine's scheme. But I'd hate to pass on Oliver too.

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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:35 pm

good post!

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carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:14 pm

I’m leaning towards White if it got down to that.

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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:46 pm

Williams is a lightweight and not sold on his coverage. Bad year for corners.

2 points
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JakeDickerson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 03:47 pm

That’s the beauty of these FA signings. It gives Gutey the freedom to truly draft the best football player available and that’s what this team needs now, Good football players.

1 points
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Since'61's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:30 am

These moves are all telling me that Gute will focus on offense during the draft. Rebuilding the OL and reloading the skill positions on offense is long overdue.
While I can see us adding another LB early in the draft I'm now expecting an OL and TE to be taken within our first 3-4 picks. Hopefully another WR and Rb will be added by rounds 3-4 as well.

Rebuild the defense with FA signings and reload the offense with younger and more athletic skill players in the draft. Simultaneously chuck and/or let the older ineffective players walk, like Perry, CM3, Cobb, Brice and others. Go Gute Go! Thanks, Since '61

4 points
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Cubbygold's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:41 am

Moore, MVS, St. Brown, Yancey, Dupre, Kumerow...

Packers have spent quite a bit of draft capital on receivers the past two years. Just keep missing? Can't develop? Or do they have a good young group?

Just not sure why a high draft pick is necessary unless we think that it's clear that Moore/St.Brown/MVS/Kumerow can't produce. Tired of drafting WRs and immediately dumping them before the season starts.

*edit - can definitely understand grabbing an elite WR if one is out there, but I don't believe there is. So another 3rd round pick feels like a repeat of the past few years.

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Since'61's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:09 pm

We still need a bone fide #2 wide receiver to take the double teams off of Davante at least some of the time. Also, we need an RB who can carry the load for an entire season with 20+ carries per game. Aaron Jones can give us about 15 touches a game running and receiving but he is not a punishing back that can carry the offense and ground down a defense late in a game when we want to run down the clock.

Given the players that we have signed for the defense today we can consider drafting some luxury type picks that I have just mentioned. Before today we needed to fill the three holes that we had in their respective positions. That's done so we can reload more weapons for the offense. Thanks, Since '61

3 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:36 pm

agree 61

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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:49 pm

When is the lst time they spent a #1 pick on a WR? 2004 on Javon Walker.
Give Rodgers some playmakers not fill-ins.

-3 points
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carlos's picture

March 12, 2019 at 09:20 pm

Agree 61. Drafting big guys who are high twitch, fast and strong is always good. The one’s who can block and tackle. Hard to find them guys. Like what’s been said before,”They don’t grow on trees. “

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SterlingSharpe's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:36 am

Draft Day Trade:

Packers trade down from #12 pick to Oakland for their 2 lower first round picks #24 & #27 (Trade Chart means one 6th rd pick may need to be added).

Packers select:

#24- ILB Devin Bush
From Kiper: We've seen Bush go sideline to sideline with Michigan, but his 4.43 40 time at the combine really drove home just how fast this kid is. He's an every-down talent

#27- WR Marquise Hollywood Brown
Adding a burner would open up this offense to levels not seen since the 2011 season that had a great tight end in Jermichael Finley to go along with five good wide receivers. Brown has good hands and can outrun just about anyone. He can get deep wide up the sidelines and he's extremely quick and would pose a matchup problem in the slot against any linebacker.

#30- TE Noah Fant
Adding a tight end with 4.51 speed could help get the offense at the pace the Packers have been used to with Aaron Rodgers. Fant is essentially a big slot receiver, which would create exploitable matchups for Rodgers and new coach Matt LaFleur on offense. Getting the second Iowa tight end here would be a steal.

-1 points
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Swisch's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:11 pm

What about offensive line?

1 points
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SterlingSharpe's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:13 pm

Rounds 2, 3, 4 plenty of good OL available. Just have to pick the right one.

But they just added Billy Turner to the OL today for 4 years/$28 million, so they expect him to start obviously.

0 points
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stockholder's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:14 pm

If Oliver isn't taken by Detroit. Gute should be all over Oliver. Wilkins also deserves consideration. But I see him staying put.@12, & @30. I would trade #44 and #75 and move up now! Not trade down.

2 points
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Swisch's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:25 pm

Trading up in the draft may be the way to go, stockholder, since we've added four new guys in free agency -- and maybe should go more for quality than quantity.
Question is, who would you take as our premium pick?

0 points
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stockholder's picture

March 12, 2019 at 10:45 pm

If Oliver is Gone. The premium pick should come down to White or Wilkens. Wilkens is perfect to replace Wilkerson. White is everything TT should have got. If Gute does this right; it's Wilkens first. They went through last season with Morrison. You have to have the right guys up front to make the Smiths effective. A ILB won't do that. But ILB gives the defense Heart. Bush has it. Trade @44 and @75 for Bush! If they have to use #30 and #75. Do IT! But #30 should be save for a Free Safety. Adderley.

1 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:39 pm

100% agree with the selections and the two trade ups.

However, in trading those two picks I would select Simmons even though he might not play until late in the year or in 2020. Too talented to pass up!

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JakeDickerson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 03:43 pm

I like it. All of these guys could start adding speed everywhere.

0 points
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@ballark's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:41 am

Not sure how much gas we have left in the FA tank, but I'd love to see the Packers go get Donte Moncrief. Still just 25 years old. Looked great in Indy, just battled injuries. Played well last year w/sub-par QB play. Doubt he'll cost much. Lots of upside.

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SterlingSharpe's picture

March 12, 2019 at 11:47 am

What about Philip Dorsett, another former Colt (1st rd pick) who the Patriots added last year on their way to another Super Bowl.

I don't think Dorsett will break a bank. Maybe.....

Or another former Bear, #7 overall draft pick in 2015, Kevin White. Imagine him fulfilling draft expectations with us, against Da Bears.
He has special ability that made him a no-brainer top-ten pick. Higher than any WR in this 2019 Draft. Just hasn't panned out yet.
Neither had Eric Ebron in Detroit. I'd bet on him succeeding with us more than J'Mon Moore.

0 points
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Since'61's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:01 pm

Andrew Luck had a 67.3% completion rate, threw for 4593 yards and 39 TDs/15 ints. He had a 98.3 QB rating. Plus he led his team into the playoffs with virtually no defense.

By comparison Tom Brady threw for 4355 yards, 29 TDs/11 ints with a 65.5% completion rate and a 97.7 QB rating.

If that is how you define sub-par QB play you may want to reconsider your definition of sub-par. Given their difference in age I'd take Luck over Brady instantly. Plus this tells me that if you put Luck on the Pats, Luck would be the SB QB. But thanks for playing, better luck next time.
Since '61

0 points
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@ballark's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:41 pm

Moncrief was in Jacksonville last year.

0 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:53 pm

Moncrief is fragile, not a WCO type guy.

0 points
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Swisch's picture

March 12, 2019 at 12:21 pm

Overall exciting, welcome news in free agency... but upon further consideration -- as far as our salary cap budget allowance affordability pay limits -- did we get carried away and take one Smith too many?
(I'm not sure which is the best signing.)
Not to mention name confusion. At least neither Smith has a first name of Josh.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:57 pm

No, we're in good shape. Thank anyway,Ted.

-1 points
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crayzpackfan's picture

March 12, 2019 at 01:53 pm

I certainly could be completely wrong here, but after today’s signings, I think we stand pat with our draft order and go 12 TE, 30 OL, and 44 DB. After that build depth and find gems with BPA picks. Hurry up April!!! :)

0 points
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Swisch's picture

March 12, 2019 at 03:04 pm

That plan for the draft may be just crazy enough to work in its sensibleness.

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JakeDickerson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 03:40 pm

Love the signings. We got a lot bigger up front. Need to draft some speed at LB now. White from LSU makes a whole lot of sense now. Need coverage speed badly, Burks is unreliable, or at least has shown so up to this point.

0 points
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JakeDickerson's picture

March 12, 2019 at 03:40 pm

Love the signings. We got a lot bigger up front. Need to draft some speed at LB now. White from LSU makes a whole lot of sense now. Need coverage speed badly, Burks is unreliable, or at least has shown so up to this point.

1 points
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SterlingSharpe's picture

March 12, 2019 at 04:16 pm

Totally agree with you on White. But someone who has access to combine times, please show us the times of ILBs Devin White & Devin Bush. I think they are almost identical, except one inch.

0 points
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Johnblood27's picture

March 12, 2019 at 05:19 pm

One inch can be the difference between OOOOHHHH and AAAAHHHHH

1 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

March 12, 2019 at 08:42 pm

oh crimminy.....that is very true! :)

1 points
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gary g's picture

March 13, 2019 at 06:05 am

I hope you dont know from experience. Just kidding.

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OldPacker's picture

March 12, 2019 at 04:01 pm

OK everyone.. we got some FA ..Now Keep Clay ... also the biggest plus is no MM .. wait until you see the difference ... and how awful he truly was ..only covered Up by the Man .. AR

0 points
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Slim11's picture

March 13, 2019 at 07:02 am

Given the cap money spent in the past few days, I don't believe CM3 will be re-signed. There might be some other FA signings after the draft. I see some increased trade activity at draft time which will make things much more interesting.

1 points
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