3 Packers bold moves that now seem realistic after Brian Gutekunst's comments
A year ago, the Green Bay Packers had no choice but to limit their spending in free agency. The only players they signed in March were a safety who didn't make the roster and a long snapper.
Aaron Rodgers' contract comes off the books this offseason, and while the Packers are still not out of the salary cap woods yet, they have more flexibility. General manager Brian Gutekunst said as much in his end-of-season press conference.
"It's never perfect, but I do feel whatever opportunities are out there to improve our team in free agency, we'll be able to do that. So I feel good about that," said Gutekunst. "I don't think we'll shy away from adding any impact players if we have to push [cap space] down the road."
This was a particularly notable quote: "This is about winning and trying to win a championship. If it's something that makes sense, we'll do it."
The Packers aren't going to become big spenders and sign multiple free agents, but they could make some bold moves. Let's explore a few possibilities.
3. Packers could sign Drue Tranquill
Most of Green Bay's roster building will come in the draft, but they could attack areas of need in free agency. Inside linebacker will take on greater importance in Jeff Hafley's scheme. De'Vondre Campbell's future in Green Bay is uncertain, and if Hafley wants a 4-3 defense, they will need three linebackers good enough to start.
The Packers could have options in free agency. A name to watch is Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill. He has played a vital role in Kansas City's No. 2-ranked defense this season.
Tranquill would be perfect for Hafley's aggressive defense. He is an excellent blitzer, with 9.5 sacks and 15 QB hits over the past two seasons. Tranquill is good in coverage and could form an excellent starting trio alongside Quay Walker and Isaiah McDuffie.
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