Packers: What are the pros and cons of re-signing Corey Linsley?
The Green Bay Packers might soon have to replace their All-Pro center.
Corey Linsley was another home-run Day 3 draft pick by Ted Thompson, who found great success finding future stars along the offensive line in the later rounds.
Linsley has been with the Packers for seven seasons but will he be playing elsewhere in 2021? Let’s look at the pros and cons of re-signing Linsley.
Pros of Packers re-signing Corey Linsley
Well, the most obvious is that the Packers would be bringing back their first-team All-Pro. Not only is Linsley one of the best centers in football, but it would also ensure the Packers maintain continuity. The chemistry between a center and quarterback is important to ensure there aren’t many mistakes on snaps, and Linsley has established that with Aaron Rodgers over the years.
Of all the numbers and stats out there that show what a great 2020 season Linsley had, none are quite as impressive as this one. According to Pro Football Focus, Linsley allowed a pressure rate of just 1.7 percent.
Want to know why the Packers achieved such dominance along the offensive line for most of the season? Just look at the trio of players from left to center: All-Pro and Pro Bowler David Bakhtiari, Pro Bowler Elgton Jenkins, and All-Pro Linsley.
Linsley has played a huge role in the success of the offensive line both in the passing game and by creating rushing lanes. For a team looking to get back to the Super Bowl in 2021, protecting Rodgers is priority number one. Bringing back Linsley helps achieve that.
Cons of Packers re-signing Corey Linsley
While Linsley rarely misses time (just three games missed in the past four seasons), he will turn 30 before the start of the season. He could still have many years left on top of his game, but there’s no doubt there would be some risk for the Packers to give him a long-term deal.
The other thing to consider is the salary cap situation and depth the Packers have along the offensive line. Green Bay has a few candidates to start at center, including Jenkins, who has experience playing at the position in college and also filled in for Linsley at times in 2020.
Given the depth at the interior positions of the offensive line, you could argue the Packers would be better off using money that could go on a Linsley extension on signing a free agent at a bigger position of need. J.J. Watt, anyone?
That is a tough question to answer. Linsley is one of the best at his position and plays a crucial role in protecting Rodgers, so you could certainly argue re-signing him should take priority over signing other free agents.