It’s a franchise that usually doesn’t spend a lot of time during the free-agency period adding other team’s players. But times are certainly changing for the Green Bay Packers. This month alone, general manager Ted Thompson has welcomed tight ends Martellus Bennett (New England Patriots) and Lance Kendricks (Los Angeles Rams) to “Titletown.” And via NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, former Packers cornerback Davon House is returning to Green Bay after recently being cut loose by the Jacksonville Jaguars. That’s all fine and good, but Thompson needs to make up for losses on the offensive line (J.C.
Tretter and T.J. Lang), as well as outside linebacker Julius Peppers and defensive back Micah Hyde.
Who is still available?
When it comes to interior offensive linemen, there are guards such as four-year pro Hugh Thornton, Brandon Fusco and veterans such as versatile Jermon Bushrod, Chris Chester and Jahri Evans. The Green Bay Packers would be looking at depth in terms of center and performers such as Nick Mangold and Cody Wallace are possibilities. In terms of 3-4 outside linebackers, Connor Barwin can line up outside in that scheme and play defensive end in the 3-4. The pickings are much better at this position with performers such as Elvis Dumervil, Paul Kruger or even one-time Packers’ defender Erik Walden.
The return of House will ease the loss of Hyde just a bit in terms of nickel coverage. But hard-hitting T.J. McDonald would be a good fit in Don Capers’ system.
Which players make the most sense?
While Dumervil may be the more noted pass-rusher, Barwin may be the more sound addition. His versatility is a huge plus for a team that needs a lot of help on its front seven.
Keep in mind that the Green Bay Packers will be down nose tackle Letroy Guion for the first four games of the season due to a league suspension. But Dumervil would be a nice backup plan. Bushrod may make the most sense in terms of guard because we know he can also line up at tackle. And McDonald, late of the Rams, would bring a much-needed physical presence to the secondary.
