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Packers inch closer to surprising (but smart) move for former top-10 draft pick

He could be a perfect fit for the Packers' defense.
Eric Fischer
Eric Fischer

Lombardi Ave

Baltimore Ravens v New York Giants / Sarah Stier/GettyImages

While the first few waves of free agency are over, teams are still looking to add to their rosters ahead of the NFL Draft. While the marquee names are mostly off the board, there are plenty of options out there that could help a team out. One such player is taking a visit with the Green Bay Packers.

The Packers' defense took a monster leap in many areas last season under Jeff Hafley. Interceptions were up, and despite an inconsistent pass rush, the team still finished in the top 10 in sacks. Still, some question marks remain for this unit, especially at linebacker.

The team lost Eric Wilson to the Minnesota Vikings in free agency. Quay Walker is entering the final season on his rookie contract unless the Packers surprisingly pick up his fifth-year option. That leaves Edgerrin Cooper and Ty'Ron Hopper, both entering their second season, Isaiah McDuffie, and journeyman Kristian Welch.

Packers hosting Isaiah Simmons on free-agency visit

NFL insider Ian Rapoport reports that the Packers are hosting free-agent linebacker Isaiah Simmons for a visit.

Simmons is a former top-10 pick, selected eighth overall in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. Simmons spent his first three seasons with the Cardinals, including making the PFWA All-Rookie Team, before getting traded to the New York Giants, where he moved from linebacker to safety.

Still, Simmons would be a welcome addition to the defense. His versatility would give depth to both the linebacker and safety positions. He also has played significant snaps on special teams, registering 370 snaps and earning an 88.2 PFF grade on special teams over the past two seasons.

The Packers have cap room to make a move and could address two positions without needing to spend draft capital on them. Green Bay shouldn't let Simmons leave 1265 Lombardi Ave without a contract.

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Eric Fischer

Eric Fischer

Eric Fischer is a lifelong Wisconsin sports fan, and contributor to Lombardi Ave and Reviewing the Brew. Born and raised in Northeastern Wisconsin, just minutes away from Lambeau Field, Packers fandom is not a choice, it is a way of life. Eric worked for the Packers during college, working in the Packers Hall of Fame during college. Eric joined Fansided in 2024, starting with Lombardi Ave, and joined Brewers coverage on Reviewing the Brew in 2025. Eric has worked in the Green Bay media market for 9 years covering high school sports in the Greater Green Bay area, Green Bay men and women's basketball, and talking Wisconsin sports and pushing buttons as a part time on-air talent and producer for WDUZ, 107.5/1400 The Fan. When not watching or covering sports, Eric is likely to be found with a drink in his hand, spending time with family, friends, and his wife.