Green Bay Packers: Three second wave free agent targets
December 21, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz (right) instructs middle linebacker
Brandon Spikes(51) during the third quarter against the Oakland Raiders at O.co Coliseum. The Raiders defeated the Bills 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
ILB Brandon Spikes
Brandon Spikes is another player who could become a value free agent pickup for the Packers. Spikes has primarily played as a two down player of late, being used as a run-stopper.
Nov 24, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots middle linebacker Brandon Spikes (55) pressures Denver Broncos quarterback
Peyton Manning(18) during the fourth quarter at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Broncos 34-31 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
That could be exactly what the Packers need.
The former New England Patriots inside linebacker spent 2014 with the Buffalo Bills, and registered 54 tackles, seven stuffs and a sack – according to ESPN Stats.
With the Packers ranking 23rd in run defense last season, they need some help in shoring up the unit down the middle.
A.J. Hawk and Brad Jones struggled inside last year, and with their release, the Packers need a thumping tackler… Spikes would provide exactly that.
If Spikes continues to fall in the market, Thompson could be tempted to make a move for the veteran.
Playing to his strengths, he could help the Packers stuff the run on early downs.
Next: A familiar face