Packers: Grades for free agency, draft, coaching changes in 2022

Free agency and Davante Adams trade

We have to start with Davante Adams. While he was traded, so this technically wasn’t a free agency move, it all started with the Packers placing the franchise tag on him.

With Adams wanting out, the Packers had little choice but to get all they could in a trade. Receiving two premium picks is solid business, but replacing Adams is impossible.

Green Bay lost key contributors like wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling, offensive lineman Lucas Patrick, and cornerback Chandon Sullivan in free agency. Edge rusher Za’Darius Smith signed with the Minnesota Vikings after being released by the Packers.

However, by trading Adams and releasing Smith, the Packers created enough cap room to re-sign important starters like De’Vondre Campbell and Rasul Douglas.

Green Bay added talented defensive lineman Jarran Reed, wide receiver Sammy Watkins, and cornerback Keisean Nixon, a key special teams contributor for Bisaccia with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Each addition makes sense for the Packers. Re-signing two key defensive players in Campbell and Douglas was also huge for Green Bay.

However, losing Adams hurts. The Packers’ offense is worse, not better, without their All-Pro wide receiver catching passes from Aaron Rodgers. Adams’ departure created cap space and gave the Packers bonus draft picks, but he is irreplaceable.

Grade: C