Why the Packers shouldn’t sign A.J. Green in free agency
A.J. Green has consistently been one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, but the Green Bay Packers shouldn’t sign him in free agency.
The Packers need a wide receiver. Multiple receivers, in all likelihood. And as ever, GM Brian Gutekunst should explore every avenue possible. The draft. Free agency. Trades.
One name that often comes up is A.J. Green, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent in March. But while the thought of a Green-Davante Adams combo at receiver sounds exciting, it would be a risky move by the Packers.
It’s hard to know what to expect from Green in 2020. By the time the new season kicks off, he’ll be 32 years old. Green has also missed a lot of time due to injury in recent years. Not only did he miss the entire 2019 season, but he also only played in nine games in 2018.
In a historically deep class at the position in April’s draft, the Packers will have multiple opportunities to improve at receiver in the early rounds.
That’s not to say they shouldn’t use free agency. A receiver like Robby Anderson could be a great addition to Matt LaFleur’s offense. But given the depth in the draft, the Packers don’t need to take any big risks at receiver in free agency.
Spotrac estimates Green could make just over $9 million a season, although they believe his market value would be a two-year contract. If you could guarantee the Packers would get Green at his best, it would be an excellent deal. But in reality, it would be a huge gamble.
At his best, Green is among the best receivers in the NFL. He put up over 1,000 yards receiving in six out of his first seven seasons. He only fell 36 yards short in 2016 but would’ve easily hit the milestone had he not missed six games due to injury. He also finished with double-digit touchdowns on three occasions.
But will Green be able to match that kind of production after only playing nine games in the past two seasons, coming off a serious injury and entering the new season at 32? That’s the risk one team will make this offseason. And for $9 million a year, the Packers shouldn’t make the move.