Packers clearly regret passing on cheap LB who is dominating for division rival

The Green Bay Packers entered the offseason with a linebacker problem, which was only heightened once they switched to a 4-3 system under new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.

General manager Brian Gutekunst addressed the need for upgrades by drafting Edgerrin Cooper and Ty'Ron Hopper. Cooper has played 12 defensive snaps and Hopper zero in the opening two contests, but that's not the main concern.

While Cooper has flashed star potential and deserves more game time, the Packers' linebacker concerns remain.

Quay Walker and Isaiah McDuffie have played the most snaps but have struggled in the opening two games. Their Pro Football Focus grades rank 86th and 96th among 110 linebackers, respectively. Per PFF, they have missed six tackles and allowed 14 receptions for 149 yards and one touchdown.

Unfortunately, the Packers passed on the opportunity to add the perfect free-agent linebacker in the offseason.

Packers paying the price for not signing Vikings linebacker Blake Cashman

Drafting Cooper and Hopper isn't the problem, but the Packers also needed to sign a veteran who could make an immediate impact. Blake Cashman is doing exactly that for the rival Minnesota Vikings.

Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reported that the Packers were among the teams interested in signing Cashman in the offseason. Instead, the veteran signed a three-year, $25.5 million deal with the Vikings.

Cashman's ability to tackle, cover, and blitz made him perfect for Hafley's system, and he can also contribute on special teams.

The Packers' loss was the Vikings' gain. Cashman has made an outstanding start in Brian Flores' defense, making 19 tackles, one sack, one quarterback hit, and three pass defenses in just two games. He has the 12th-best PFF defense grade among all linebackers.

Cashman could've been the veteran leader Green Bay's defense needed at linebacker. Had Walker struggled, Cashman could've played alongside Cooper and Eric Wilson.

Green Bay needs better play from its linebackers moving forward. Maybe Walker finally shows more consistency, or perhaps Cooper or Hopper earn more snaps as the season goes on. Gutekunst may need to turn to the 2025 NFL Draft for more reinforcements at the position. Only time will tell.

Gutekunst used free agency and the draft to address other needs, like safety and running back. It's surprising he didn't do the same at linebacker, considering how badly the defense needed help. Cashman would've been a great addition.

The Packers should've just paid him the Cash, Man.

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