Packers 2022 free agency predictions: Who re-signs, who walks?
CB Kevin King
Aside from Rodgers, King may be the most controversial player within the Packers’ organization. Some are enamored with his raw talent and large frame that allows him to compete with big, physical receivers, such as the Seattle Seahawks’ D.K. Metcalf.
Many fans, however, believe that his mental lapses in coverage and poor injury history outweigh his talent. King amassed 29 tackles and one interception this season, playing in only 10 games. He struggled in coverage at the beginning of the season, but improved as the year progressed. However, he lost most of his playing time after the emergence of Douglas, and was largely relegated to being a special teams player.
If Rodgers stays, there’s almost no chance the Packers bring King back. They likely wouldn’t use precious cap space on an injury prone backup who hasn’t had a good season in three years.
If Rodgers leaves, however, it’s possible that the Packers look at King’s age (only 26 years old) and take another gamble on him, hoping that he could retain his former confidence and skill. If King would be willing to take a small contract, the risk could be worth it as the Packers try to retool around Love.
Rodgers stays: Don’t re-sign
Rodgers leaves: Re-sign to a one-year, $1.2 million deal
CB Chandon Sullivan
Sullivan has been solid as a slot cornerback for the Packers, and is coming off the best season of his career in 2021. He amassed 31 tackles and three interceptions this season, playing primarily out of the slot. However, the return of Jaire Alexander next season could severely diminish Sullivan’s value.
The Packers’ three best cornerbacks are Alexander, Douglas, and 2021 first-round pick Eric Stokes. Stokes and Douglas both excel on the perimeter of the field, while Alexander is elite both on the perimeter and in the slot. That doesn’t leave much room for Sullivan. In fact, per Pro Football Reference, Sullivan played only 31% of the possible defensive snaps in the divisional round game against the 49ers, Alexander’s first game back from injury.
If Rodgers stays, it’s doubtful that the Packers will have the cap space to bring back Sullivan. He’ll likely command a contract too large for the Packers to be willing to pay for a part-time player. If Rodgers leaves, the Packers will likely bring back either one of Sullivan or King.
I think that King’s athleticism and size gives him a higher potential than Sullivan, who sometimes struggles with tackling. Sullivan will also likely command a larger contract than King. Unfortunately, I don’t think that Sullivan will be wearing green and gold next season.
Rodgers stays: Don’t re-sign
Rodgers leaves: Don’t re-sign