Green Bay Packers: Biggest decisions facing Ted Thompson this offseason

Should the Packers go after any free agents?

This question is asked every offseason and receives mixed responses. By now, we all know Thompson’s strict draft philosophy and stubbornness when it comes to signing outside free agents. But as history shows, every so often he can’t avoid the temptation to make a splash.

Julius Peppers was a hit, as was Charles Woodson. Maybe 2016 is the year Thompson dives into the free agent market. An occasional free agent splash can be the difference between winning a Super Bowl or not. How influential was Darrelle Revis on the Patriots’ most recent Super Bowl triumph?

But who could the Packers target?

The obvious names on defense are linebackers Danny Trevathan and Brandon Marshall. Both players helped the Broncos capture the Super Bowl title, but face uncertain futures due to the tight salary cap situation in Denver. If either hits the open market, there will be a race for their signature.

How about Matt Forte? Despite being 30-years-old, which is beyond a running back’s best years, Forte is in much better shape than many players at the same point of their career. The Bear has avoided serious injuries for much of his career with excellent conditioning, and he announced he’s set to hit the free agency market this March.

Imagine plugging Forte into the Packers’ offense and the 1-2 punch he would form with Eddie Lacy, and consider the possibilities he would add to the passing game.

Are any of these moves likely? But making such a swoop could take the Packers to the next level.

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