Terrance Knighton: Solution for the Green Bay Packers?

Dec 28, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive tackle Terrance Knighton (98) pressures Oakland Raiders quarterback

(4) in the first quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Knighton is a run-stuffer

Terrance Knighton brings a big, powerful frame with him. The 6-3, 331-pounder is a run-stopper. He was used primarily on early downs for the Broncos, and could be used to the same effect in Green Bay.

Jan 11, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive tackle Terrance Knighton (98) against the Indianapolis Colts in the 2014 AFC Divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Colts defeated the Broncos 24-13. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Pro Football Focus graded Knighton as the 12th-best defensive tackle in the NFL last season and ninth-best against the run.

Knighton has experience playing in a 3-4 defense as nose tackle, and his presence on the Packers’ defensive line would be huge.

He would also bring leadership to the Packers. Knighton is a team captain for the Broncos, and his experience could be key for the team as they try and make a deep playoff push.

Having played a key role in the Broncos’ run to the Super Bowl in 2013, Knighton could bring similar leadership qualities to what Julius Peppers brought with him last season.

If the Packers were able to lure Knighton to Green Bay, B.J. Raji and Letroy Guion could find themselves looking for a new team. Ted Thompson would then be able to add a cheaper option in the draft to use on the rotation at nose tackle with Knighton.

Alternatively, the Packers could re-sign Raji or Guion and go for experience at the position. Knighton would be able to play primarily on early downs as a run-stopper like he did in Denver.

Knighton would bring 331 pounds of run-stopping talent to the Packers’ defensive line. Can they afford him though?

Next: What would be the cost?