Packers named as landing spot for free-agent Geno Atkins

Should the Green Bay Packers sign free-agent defensive tackle Geno Atkins?

The Green Bay Packers‘ defensive line has struggled in recent years. One reason for that is a lack of investment in free agency or the draft, outside of Pro Bowler Kenny Clark.

Fortunately, if the Packers decide to sign a free-agent defensive tackle before the new season gets underway, they still have a few good options.

One of them is Geno Atkins, who has been to an incredible eight Pro Bowls and is a three-time All-Pro, including two first-team selections. Atkins was also named to the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team.

The former fourth-round pick has spent his entire career so far with the Cincinnati Bengals, but is still a free agent. He turned 33 this offseason so his best football is likely behind him, but that doesn’t mean he can’t help the Packers’ defense this year.

Cody Williams of NFL Spin Zone has ranked five teams that should sign Atkins, and unsurprisingly, the Packers are one of them. As Williams writes in the article, “adding Atkins would be a tremendous asset for them and give the Pack one of the most formidable pass-rushes in the NFC”.

The Packers’ pass rush is already strong, but the team needs to get some more help for Kenny Clark at defensive tackle. Atkins, who has 75.5 sacks in his career, could be a great addition to Green Bay’s defense.

General manager Brian Gutekunst hasn’t been afraid to make moves to help the roster in the summer or even during the season. Last year, he signed defensive tackle Damon Harrison late in the season as well as wide receiver and returner Tavon Austin.

Whether it’s before the season starts or at some point during the regular season, the Packers should look to sign a defensive tackle. Atkins is still available and could help strengthen the defensive line.