As the NFL free agency looms just two weeks away, the Green Bay Packers find themselves at a crossroads. The question isn't just about who they'll sign, but how they'll manage their budget, especially with the potential for compensatory picks in play.
The buzz around the league has QB Malik Willis potentially commanding a hefty $30 million per year in free agency. Meanwhile, LT Rasheed Walker is catching the eyes of the Patriots and Chiefs.
Reports suggest Walker could land a deal surpassing Dan Moore's four-year, $82 million contract with the Titans. These are the kind of moves that could yield the Packers some valuable mid-round picks, especially after they traded away two picks for Micah Parsons last offseason.
So, what might an ideal pre-draft offseason look like for the Packers?
Preferred Departures
First up, Malik Willis and Rasheed Walker. While both are expected to secure substantial contracts, which could net the Packers third or fourth-round picks, the departures make strategic sense.
Walker, despite outperforming his seventh-round status, seems to have hit his ceiling. With former first-rounder Jordan Morgan ready to step up, moving on from Walker is logical.
Losing Willis, however, presents a bigger challenge. He's been a reliable backup, and there's no clear replacement in sight.
Honorable Mentions
Players like Quay Walker, Sean Rhyan, Romeo Doubs, and Kingsley Enagbare are likely to find new homes next season. While Doubs and Walker might bring in compensatory picks, Rhyan and Enagbare could be middle-tier signings. If Green Bay can bring back either Rhyan or Enagbare on a budget, it wouldn't be a bad move, though enthusiasm for Rhyan has waned over the years.
Ideal New Packers
Enter Khalil Mack and Calais Campbell. While cornerback is a glaring need, bolstering the front seven feels more urgent.
Both veterans might not fit the typical age profile for Packers' free agents, but they're the kind of strategic additions a win-now team makes without jeopardizing future draft capital or cap space. Campbell could be a game-changer on the line, and Mack would add crucial depth, especially if Parsons isn't ready to start the season.
However, Mack's playing status remains uncertain.
Honorable Mentions
Greg Newsome II, Cade Mays, and Nakobe Dean are all viable options that address key needs without breaking the bank. Newsome and Mays fill obvious gaps, while Dean has thrived under new DC Jonathan Gannon.
Final Thoughts
Don't expect the Packers to make a splash on day one of free agency. Their moves will likely come on day two or later, focusing on mid-level younger players and veterans.
While new additions are expected before the draft, the emphasis will be on bolstering next year's draft picks. The strategy seems clear: build for the future while making smart, calculated moves now.