Green Bay Packers: Ted Thompson’s free agency hits and misses

Charles Woodson. Raymond T. Rivard photograph

Hit: Charles Woodson

2006 was a busy year in the free agency market for Ted Thompson.

Aug 22, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) and Oakland Raiders safety Charles Woodson (24) embrace after the game at Lambeau Field. The Packers defeated the Raiders 31-21. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The biggest splash for the Green Bay Packers was that of defensive back Charles Woodson.

Woodson joined the Packers on a seven-year, $52 million deal, but was considered by many to be a risky move due to injury history and his attitude.

Below is an extract from an article written by ESPN’s Len Pasquarelli back in 2006:

"“Indeed, for the first half of his career, Woodson was one of the top cover defenders in the league. But there are skeptics now, particularly given his recent injuries, who feel he will never perform up to his prior Pro Bowl level.”"

It was a risk that paid off for the Packers.

Woodson’s seven-year stay in Green Bay included 462 tackles and 38 interceptions -nine of which he returned for touchdowns. He led the NFL in interceptions in 2009 and 2011.

He earned four Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors while with the Packers, as well as being named the AP Defensive Player of the Year in 2009. And of course, he has a Super Bowl ring.

It was considered a risky move at the time, but to this date Woodson remains Ted Thompson’s best free agent signing.

Next: A recent departure...