Green Bay Packers: Three second wave free agent targets

Oct 26, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive tackle

(75) looks on during the second half of New England

DT Vince Wilfork

For a team needing a big guy up front to help stop the run, the Packers may be able to find value in the 325-pound Vince Wilfork.

Wilfork spent 11 years with the New England Patriots and should be on Thompson’s radar if he remains unsigned.

In Foxboro, Wilfork recorded 165 tackles, 25 pass defenses, 27 stuffs and three interceptions. If his price tag continues to fall, he could be just what the Packers need up front on defense.

Omar Kelly of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel believes there is some competition for his services:

No mention of a team from the NFC there – but there is still time.

At 33 years old, Wilfork may not be the dominant run-stuffer he once was, but he could still be a useful addition on the defensive rotation.

According to Football Outsiders, Wilfork played 73.6 percent of defensive snaps for the Patriots last season, and was a key piece of the unit that ranked ninth in run defense. That is an indication that Wilfork still has plenty to offer in the NFL.

According to Over The Cap, the Packers still have $21.33 million in cap space available, so a short-term deal in the range of $4- to $6 million annually could be worth the risk on him.

Thompson should keep a keen eye on Wilfork; if a bidding war begins and his value inflates, he can walk away. If the veteran continues to fall, the Packers may feel the risk versus reward scenario is worth a short-term offer.

Next: More help in the middle