The start to NFL free agency is just two weeks away. Like most teams in the league, the Packers have work to do. The question is how much money are the Packers willing to spend? The issue becomes more complicated when you consider potential comp picks.
These are the kind of deals that could net the Packers multiple mid round picks. Something the team will definitely want after sending out two picks for Micah Parsons last offseason. So while the Packers do have the flexibility to sign almost anyone, they may opt to focus on cheap one year signings or cut vets to avoid losing out on that draft capital.
So with that being said, what does an ideal pre draft offseason look like for the Green Bay Packers?
Preferred Departures
The obvious two are the ones above. Both players are expected to sign significant deals which could net the Packers 3rd or 4th round picks. While Rasheed Walker has far outperformed his 7th round pedigree, there are times where you can see the obvious ceiling. With a former first round pick in Jordan Morgan waiting in the wings, moving on from Walker makes sense both from a personnel standpoint, and a draft capital one.
Losing Willis feels like the bigger blow despite the difference in value between the two positions. Willis has played as well as any team could ask of their backup, and unlike Walker there isn’t an obvious replacement in the building.
Honorable Mentions
- Quay Walker
- Sean Rhyan
- Romeo Doubs
- Kingsley Enagbare
I honestly expect all four of the players to be on new teams next year. Doubs and Walker may get the kind of deals that generate further comp picks, while Rhyan and Enagbare seem like classic middle of the road day 2 or 3 signings.
If Green Bay could get either of the later two back cheaply I wouldn’t be against it, although the Packers haven’t seemed that enthused with Rhyan for several seasons.
Ideal New Packers
- Khalil Mack
- Calais Campbell
While corner is the most glaring need to some, I believe reinforcing the front seven is the more pressing issue. Both players are not the age the Packers typically target in free agency, but they are the kind of moves a win now team could make while not endangering future draft capital or cap space.
Campbell would provide a much needed impact player in the middle of the line, while Mack would add needed depth to an edge room that may be without Micah Parsons to start the season. It is worth noting that its unclear whether or not Mack plays next season.
Honorable Mentions
- Greg Newsome II
- Cade Mays
- Nakobe Dean
Three players at positions of need that wouldn’t break the bank. Additionally all three are in the age range that the Packers tend to prefer for free agents. Newsome and Mays both fill obvious needs, while Dean is a player that played very well under new DC Jonathan Gannon.
Final Thoughts
I do not expect the Packers to make any big splash signings on day one of free agency. I think their first moves likely come on day 2 if they target any of the mid level younger guys and maybe even later if they decide to add some vets.
The Packers will be adding players before the draft, but I believe that increasing next years available picks will be the primary factor in deciding who to sign for next season.
