4 big-name free agents the Packers could sign in 2022

WR Julio Jones

The Packers are a win-now team but don’t currently have a clear WR1. Perhaps they could get some help from one of the best wide receivers of the generation, seven-time Pro Bowler Julio Jones.

It’s no secret that Jones isn’t the All-Pro player he once was. Injuries have been an issue in recent years. Julio has only played 19 of a possible 33 games since 2020.

However, when Jones was healthy last season, he showed he is still an excellent wide receiver.

Julio still averaged an impressive 14 yards per reception and nine yards per target. According to Pro Football Focus, Jones ranked 30th of 114 wide receivers in yards per route run.

The issue wasn’t Julio’s ability but rather his bad luck with injuries.

The Packers wouldn’t expect Jones to come in and put together a 1,000-yard season. But when healthy, he would be a reliable target for Aaron Rodgers. When he’s available, Jones can still be a difference maker.

It’s the type of low-risk move that win-now teams make. The Packers did invest draft picks at wide receiver, but it would be a big ask for one of Christian Watson or Romeo Doubs to become a major contributor in year one.

Is there some risk to signing Jones? Sure, but the Packers could likely bring him in on an affordable one-year deal. He could be a major addition to Matt LaFleur’s offense when he is healthy.