Packers: Three worst moves of the 2021 offseason

2. Ignoring free agency

Yes, the Packers didn’t have much salary cap room to work with, especially after re-signing star running back Aaron Jones. But that doesn’t mean they had to completely ignore free agency like they did. There were affordable moves to be made that could’ve helped strengthen a roster built to win now.

The Packers signed inside linebacker De’Vondre Campbell to an affordable contract, and this is exactly the type of move I’m talking about. Campbell is an experienced, starting player who helps the defense. Why it took until June to make a signing like this is hard to understand.

Mike Hilton, who was ranked as the fourth-best slot cornerback by Pro Football Focus, signed an affordable four-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. According to Spotrac, Hilton is only guaranteed $6 million and the Bengals can easily get out of the contract after one season.

Another talented cornerback, Troy Hill, signed a two-year deal worth just $9 million with the Cleveland Browns. Former Pro Bowl safety Keanu Neal signed a one-year, $4 million deal with the Dallas Cowboys. Defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson recently signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings worth $3.6 million.

I could go on and on. All of those players could’ve helped the Packers defense, yet none are on huge deals.

Had they been a little more creative with their salary cap situation, the Packers could’ve added some talented players on affordable deals.