The Green Bay Packers are facing salary cap issues this offseason unlike any we have seen in a while. Under former general manager Ted Thompson the salary cap was never really an issue as the Packers would move on from high priced veterans at the drop of a dime. Charles Woodson being a perfect example. Even if it was only a few million bucks, Thompson was going to go with his draft picks. Brian Gutekunst, not so much.
Tom Silverstein was kind enough to lay out the 18 players that will probably be most affected as the Packers try to get under the cap. For what it’s worth, here’s my two cents on a few of the ones that the team must decide on whether to keep or not.
I believe Aaron Rodgers will be back so that may factor into some decisions. Like what should be the easiest of all moves the Packers need to release wide receiver Randall Cobb. As I predicted he wasn’t able to make it through the season and was a complete non-factor when the Packers needed him most in the playoffs. Rodgers will surely want him back but I have a hunch he won’t put up too much of a fight.
Every move the Packers make will be closely scrutinized and will affect the odds on the Packers success next year. The top sportsbooks will certainly be watching what Rodgers and the Packers do, you should be to.
Rebuilt receiving core coming?
Wide receiver is definitely a position that needs and might get a complete overhaul. I have to believe the team will find a way to keep Davante Adams around but it may get a little contentious at times. But Allen Lazard and Marquez Valdes-Scantling are also free agents, Lazard the restricted variety. The simple fact that Rodgers won’t throw to either one of those two on a regular basis means either they aren’t open or Rodgers doesn’t trust them. Maybe it’s time to get Rodgers some real help. Sure would have been a different game against the 49ers if OBJ was opposite Ta. I say give MVS one more year but look elsewhere with Lazard’s money.
On defense the Packers simply have to find a way to keep De’Vondre Campbell. For once it wasn’t the defense’s fault the Packers lost a playoff game and Campbell was a big reason for that. All season he was the playmaker the Packers so dearly needed at inside linebacker. I just hope somebody with deep cap pockets doesn’t throw a ton of money at the All-Pro.
Cornerback Rasul Douglas would be nice to retain and I don’t think he’ll get a ton of activity from other teams. And might be tired of bouncing around. I think he will be back.
For special teams it’s time to say goodbye to Mason Crosby. I have no confidence in him anymore and think it’s time to find the next long term kicker. At punter I definitely want them to keep Corey Bojorquez. With any kind of coverage teams he would have had a much better net average. With Mo Drayton being relieved of his duties that should improve next year.
The front office has their work cut out for them, that is for sure.