Packers: 3 free agents still available that could help defense
The first wave of free agency came and went without the Green Bay Packers signing an outside free agent.
They did re-sign Aaron Jones before the new league year began and have brought back Kevin King on affordable deal.
Oh, and the Packers did make one outside signing this week. Yes, you read that right. They signed a long snapper. Maybe they’re going “all in” after all.
There are still a number of talented players available. Here are three free agents that could help the Packers.
Justin Houston, EDGE
It seems incredibly unlikely the Packers would sign Justin Houston, especially after keeping Preston Smith for 2021. However, anytime you can sign a game-changing talent, it’s worth considering.
Even at 32 years old, Houston can still make an impact. The four-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro had eight sacks with the Indianapolis Colts in 2020, showing he can still get it done. His snap count was his lowest for around half a decade, but even in a slightly reduced role, he can make an impact.
With Za’Darius Smith and Rashan Gary playing the majority of the snaps, Houston could make an impact in a reduced role and has the ability to make game-changing plays, which would be key late in the season.
Unlikely, yes, but I’d love to see it.
Richard Sherman, CB
Like Houston, Richard Sherman has been one of the most consistent defensive players in football over the past decade. His age and coming off an injury-hit 2020 season could hurt his value in free agency, but Sherman is worth taking a risk on.
Only a year ago, Sherman was named a second-team All-Pro. It’s hard to grade his 2020 season due to injury.
Experienced, talented, and a smart player. Sherman could be a valuable addition to the Packers’ secondary and great starter to pair with Jaire Alexander.
K.J. Wright, ILB
Sherman’s former teammate with the Seattle Seahawks, K.J. Wright, is also still available. Perhaps Wright’s age is making teams cautious, but the longer he is available, the more affordable his potential contract could be.
Wright would absolutely be a starter in the middle of Joe Barry’s defense, providing much-needed experience at an important position, and a player for Krys Barnes and Kamal Martin to learn from. A former Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion, Wright can help Green Bay’s defense.