5 targets for Packers in 2023 free agency

2. Hayden Hurst

Hurst isn’t quite as explosive in the passing game as Hooper, but he would give the Packers more physicality as a blocker in the run game. That’s why he lands a few spots higher on this list.

The 29-year-old has never really lived up to the lofty expectations as a former first-round pick, but he’s been a solid pro throughout his career. He caught 52 balls for the Bengals last year but his per-catch average of just 8 yards leaves a lot to be desired. The presumption here is that his depth of target was limited by the quality of wide receivers ahead of him in the pecking order in Cincinnati.

Even if the Packers, as expected, add multiple wide receivers this offseason, they can still afford to give Hurts more versatile route-running responsibilities. He’s not a burner but his size and quality agility allow him to create separation against linebackers and safeties alike. At the very least, he requires attention from opposing secondaries on every snap.

There’s a strong chance that Hurts emerges as a free agent bargain because he’s not as dynamic as some guys ahead of him in the tight-end position group. The Packers have an opportunity to swoop in and nab a quality starter at a good price if they play their cards right.