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Green Bay Packers: Which free agents re-sign, walk in 2016?

By Freddie Boston

Jan 10, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Nick Perry (53) celebrates after sacking Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (not pictured) in the second half during a NFC Wild Card playoff football game at FedEx Field. The Packers won 35-18. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 10, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Nick Perry (53) celebrates after sacking Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (not pictured) in the second half during a NFC Wild Card playoff football game at FedEx Field. The Packers won 35-18. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 20, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers fullback John Kuhn (30) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers fullback John Kuhn (30) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

FB John Kuhn

For the cost it will take to retain John Kuhn’s services, there is a tremendous amount of value. Kuhn is such a useful player to have on the roster. He knows the offense inside out, and his understanding of the system is probably only championed by Aaron Rodgers.

His leadership on and off the field, communication with his teammates and ability to block as well he does makes him deserving of a new deal. Eddie Lacy is more comfortable running the football when Kuhn is blocking in front of him, and there’s no reason why this wouldn’t continue in 2016.

The fan favorite is also a useful option on short-yardage situations. Kuhn had nine carries for 28 yards and two touchdowns in 2015, which is exactly the production to expect from the fullback.

The only way it would make sense to move on from Kuhn is if Aaron Ripkowski is ready to take over the job. Ripkowski was a 2015 draft pick, but played almost exclusively on special teams last year. It would make sense to bring both to camp and let them battle for the starting job. For that reason, there’s a strong chance Kuhn returns to Green Bay on a similar short-term contract.

Prediction: Re-signs

Next: James Jones

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