Packers News: Mason Crosby could return, Keke Coutee set to sign?
When the Green Bay Packers drafted Anders Carlson in the sixth round of April's draft, it seemed to indicate the end of the Mason Crosby era.
The Packers don't draft kickers often. They haven't needed to. Before Carlson, the last kicker drafted by Green Bay was Crosby.
With Crosby's legendary career nearing its end, it's logical that the Packers are considering their future. Crosby had a solid season in 2022, but he lacked distance on kickoffs. Crosby hasn't indicated that he will retire, so he presumably is open to signing somewhere.
Drafting Carlson seemed to rule out a return to Green Bay for Crosby, but maybe we shouldn't assume that too quickly.
Packers News
Could Packers bring back Mason Crosby?
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Packers special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia wouldn't rule out a return for the team's all-time leading points scorer.
Rich Bisaccia isn't officially moving on from Mason Crosby yet: "We're still in conversation, I think Brian (Gutekunst) has spoken that the door is not closed, and he's not on anybody's team yet."
— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) May 16, 2023
Bisaccia thinks Crosby can still kick. He says Crosby is excited for what's next.
If Green Bay is fully committed to moving on from Crosby, this would be a strange response. Why not just say they wish Crosby all the best, thank him for all he has done, but confirm they are moving on?
The fact they haven't perhaps shows they are willing to bring him back, should they feel it's necessary.
If Carlson struggles this summer, the Packers may need to think about an alternative option. That could mean signing a veteran. If Crosby is still available, why not offer him a contract?
Whether Green Bay would consider that is another question, but the team's refusal to shut the door is interesting.
Packers host Keke Coutee for tryout
Green Bay has a young wide receiver corps after losing Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb in free agency. The team may be about to add some experience.
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported on Tuesday that the Packers were hosting veteran wide receiver Keke Coutee for a tryout. It's unclear whether Green Bay will sign Coutee, but it shows the team is willing to bring in a veteran, despite drafting six receivers over the past couple of offseasons.
Coutee has plenty of NFL experience, having played for the Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts, and he can help on special teams.
Packers claim tackle DJ Scaife off waivers
The Packers have added depth to their offensive line. According to ESPN's Field Yates, they have claimed tackle DJ Scaife off waivers.
Scaife was signed by the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent earlier this offseason.
The Dolphins released him after their rookie minicamp, but he will have an opportunity in Green Bay to compete for a roster spot in the coming months.
It's a smart move to add some depth and competition along the offensive line.
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