Are the Packers in the Market for a Free Agent Linebacker?
The Green Bay Packers might not be done adding free agent pieces. After adding All-Pro running back Josh Jacobs and ascending safety Xavier McKinney, the Packers could be looking to add a free agent linebacker to the mix. According to Pro Football Network’s Adam Caplan, the Packers were one of the teams interested in adding veteran linebacker Josey Jewell, who eventually signed with the Carolina Panthers Tuesday on a three-year deal worth $22.75 million.
The Packers are definitely in need of some linebacking help after they released former First-Team All-Pro linebacker De’Vondre Campbell on Sunday. It was a move that freed up over $10 million in cap space.
Soon-to-be third-year linebacker Quay Walker is the leader in the middle of the Packers’ defense now. Despite missing three games last season, Walker still finished with 118 total tackles and nearly 60 solo tackles. He has sideline-to-sideline speed and can drop back into coverage if need be too. He is one of the better young defenders in the league. After Walker comes soon-to-be fourth-year linebacker Isaiah McDuffie, who set career-highs in nearly every major statistical category but isn’t a consistent starter.
After those two names, there isn’t much depth at all. Green Bay needs to address that position either now or in April’s draft. If they were to address the position during this current free agent period, there is still plenty of talent available. Bobby Wagner, Jerome Baker, and Shaq Leonard are all still available. Baker is interesting because he has experience playing for current Packers linebackers coach Anthony Campanile, who was with him in Miami. He also shares the Ohio State connection with new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.
Regardless, Green Bay has plenty of opportunities to address the situation at inside linebacker. Time will tell to see if they are willing to meet the price range of some of these potential candidates.
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