3 free agents Packers must sign after Week 2 win over Lions

Packers should consider signing Geno Atkins

Outside of drafting TJ Slaton in the fifth round, the Packers did very little to fix one of their biggest issues from last season, which was the defensive line. Unsurprisingly, they are getting similar results with the line struggling in the opening two games of the season.

After two weeks, opposing teams after averaging 4.8 yards per rushing attempt against the Packers’ defense, and it starts with the defensive line getting pushed around up front.

Unless they make significant improvements, this defense is going to struggle anytime they run into a top offensive line. Against the run-first San Francisco 49ers in Week 3, they could have all sorts of problems.

Like last year when they brought in Damon Harrison, the Packers should consider signing a veteran defensive tackle.

Eight-time Pro Bowler Geno Atkins is still available. He was a Pro Bowler only two years ago. Atkins dealt with a shoulder injury throughout the 2020 season and only played in eight games for the Cincinnati Bengals. He also didn’t start any games.

While Atkins might not be the dominant defensive lineman he once was, he could still help this defense. Even if he’s not out there in a full-time role, Atkins’ experience and talent would help the Packers’ defense up front. He has 75.5 sacks, 172 QB hits, and 100 tackles for loss in his career.