Packers: Golden Tate could be affordable free agent signing

Green Bay Packers fans might remember Golden Tate best for the “Fail Mary”, or for his time with the Detroit Lions. But how about the Packers sign Tate to help their offense in 2021?

The New York Giants released Tate earlier this week, meaning he’s free to sign with any team.

The Packers will be looking for affordable free agent signings in an offseason featuring a lowered salary cap and plenty of uncertainty as a result of the pandemic. Tate could be just the type of signing they go for.

Tate will turn 33 before the start of the season and is a good few years removed from his last 1,000-yard season. But that doesn’t mean he couldn’t help Green Bay’s offense.

While Tate’s numbers haven’t been as strong in recent years, he’s also had worse quarterback play. Tate had a highly successful stay in Detroit. In his four full seasons, he went over 1,000 yards three times and became one of Matthew Stafford’s most trusted targets.

In Green Bay’s offense, Tate would be a consistent, reliable target in the slot. And some of Tate’s best work comes after the catch, something the Packers need more of on offense. According to Pro Football Focus, Tate has 4,353 yards after the catch since 2010, most in the NFL.

Tate might not start every game or have the same role on offense he had in Detroit, but that doesn’t mean he couldn’t add some experience and depth to the wide receiver room. And in the slot, Tate can be a reliable target for Aaron Rodgers.

Green Bay won’t have a ton of cap room available this offseason so will need to look for good value in affordable deals. Sign Golden Tate to a cap-friendly one-year deal and he can help this offense take a step forward in 2021.