Lombardi Ave
FanSided

Green Bay Packers: Playing devil’s advocate on pending free agents

By Freddie Boston

Dec 20, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Casey Hayward (29) stands on the field before the start of the game against the Oakland Raiders at O.co Coliseum. Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Casey Hayward (29) stands on the field before the start of the game against the Oakland Raiders at O.co Coliseum. Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 11
Next
Oct 19, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Casey Hayward (29) celebrates following an interception during the third quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 19, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Casey Hayward (29) celebrates following an interception during the third quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

Casey Hayward

Casey Hayward was selected in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Typically, the Packers like to bring back their own guys after completing their rookie deals, but Hayward might be allowed to walk depending on the price tag. His status is one of the most interesting to follow this offseason.

Why he should re-sign: Hayward plays a premium position on defense and is one of the best slot corners in the league. Dom Capers loves to play in nickel which means Hayward is effectively a starter. He started 11 games in 2015.

The Packers would be letting a talented player walk out of town, and one at a critical position. Not only does he hold down a spot as the slot corner, he also offers depth should one of the starters get hurt.

Why he should walk: It ultimately comes down to the price tag. Hayward believes he can play outside, and a team may be willing to pay him a starting cornerback’s salary. We saw this with Davon House last year. The Packers wanted him back, but Jacksonville overpaid and lured his signature.

If the price tag gets too high, the Packers should wish him all the best.

Next: Mason Crosby

Home/Green Bay Packers Free Agency