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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 /
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Dec 13, 2015; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back James Starks (44) rushes for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2015; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back James Starks (44) rushes for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

James Starks

James Starks was drafted in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, and was the starting running back during the Packers’ playoff run en route to the Super Bowl that year. In recent seasons, he’s been the backup to Eddie Lacy, forming a strong 1-2 punch in the backfield.

Why he should re-sign: Starks is a valuable running back to play behind Lacy. He’s capable of taking over the lead role when Lacy is out, and he flashed just how big of a playmaker he can be with his 65-yard touchdown run against San Diego.

Starks is experienced and understands the Packers’ offense. He’s never been the bell-cow back which means he has plenty of tread left on the tires.

Why he should walk: Fumbling was a major issue for Starks in 2015; he coughed up the football five times, losing three. He’s never surpassed 601 rushing yards in a season or three touchdowns. A good complementary piece, but at 30-years-old the Packers might be smart to move on with a younger back.

Finding a pass-catching, change-of-pace back could be the way forward for Green Bay, and this could spell the end of Starks’ tenure.

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