Packers: 5 offseason priorities to bounce back in 2018

4. Be more active in free agency

Stop me if you’ve heard this before.

The Packers need to become bigger players in free agency. This doesn’t mean they should take on the Broncos’ big-spending approach during Peyton Manning‘s final years, but they shouldn’t be afraid to make a big splash. Imagine Ted Thompson had beaten the Patriots to signing Darrelle Revis in 2014.

Aaron Rodgers’ injury exposed Green Bay’s deficiencies across the board. There are a number of holes on defense, and the team also lacks a consistent pass catcher not named Davante Adams. Relying on rookies to fix what ails this team is a risky approach, and one that hasn’t been effective for a number of years.

A combination of using the draft and free agency is the only way the Packers will see a quick overhaul of their defensive problems.

It’s too early to say which of the league’s pending free agents will actually hit the open market. Many will be re-signed. But right now names like Prince Amukamara and Ezekiel Ansah are on the list. Both could make a difference to the Packers’ defense and wouldn’t necessarily break the bank.

In all likelihood Thompson will be reluctant to use free agency and instead lean on the draft to help improve the roster. But it’s a risky strategy. After all, Rodgers turns 35 next season. Now is the time to take a few risks on the open market.