Packers free agency 2018: Predictions for each free agent

Morgan Burnett

This is the toughest free agency decision facing Brian Gutekunst this offseason. You can make a solid argument for and against re-signing Morgan Burnett.

First let’s look at the reasons why it makes sense to bring him back.

Burnett is the Packers’ best safety, offers versatility and could become a major piece in Mike Pettine’s defense. Without him, the Packers would be relying on second-year Josh Jones to step into the role, and the team would likely need to add another safety at some point in the draft.

It’s easy to assume the Packers have depth at the position even without Burnett, but the same was said at cornerback when Casey Hayward departed. That didn’t turn out too well.

Burnett provides experience, and we all know how important that can be when the playoffs arrive.

On the flip side of that, Burnett is 29-years-old and has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career. Also, Spotrac has Burnett’s estimated market value at $9.8 million per year. There’s only so much money to go around, and with an Aaron Rodgers extension likely on the way and Gutekunst’s desire to be aggressive in free agency, the Packers might decide to get younger and cheaper at safety.

That said, I think the Packers will find a way to bring their veteran safety back, giving them one less position to worry about.

Prediction: Re-signs with the Packers