3 free agents Packers could still sign in training camp
The Green Bay Packers could be better than people expect in the first year without Aaron Rodgers, but these three free agents could help ensure that further.
Even with Jordan Love taking over from Aaron Rodgers at quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, the fact of the matter is that the offense shouldn’t miss much of a beat. The pass-catching group has been notably improved, the offensive line is a top-end unit in the league, Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon are an elite running back duo, and Matt LaFleur is an accomplished offensive mind.
That alone should keep the Packers more competitive than some expect in the post-Rodgers era. The defense, which was an issue last season, leaves something to be desired, though.
Make no mistake, Green Bay has talent on the defensive side of the ball. However, the depth (and, as any fan will tell you, the coaching) are problems that could hurt the Pack in the regular season and in a potential push toward the playoffs. Luckily for Brian Gutekunst and Co., though, they have an avenue to improve that side of the ball with some of the free agents still available.
Looking at the biggest needs for depth on the Green Bay roster, these free agents could still be signed by the Packers (and probably should be too).
Packers free agent to still sign No. 3: Yannick Ngakoue, EDGE
It’s difficult to argue with what Yannick Ngakoue has done in his career, racking up 65.0 sacks since coming into the league in 2016. Over the past few years since leaving Jacksonville after the 2019 season, however, he’s been bouncing around the league with one-year stops at four different teams, most recently spending time with the Indianapolis Colts.
Admittedly, the underlying numbers for Ngakoue aren’t great from last season, even though he did end the year with 9.5 sacks. He graded out poorly according to PFF (subscription required) as one of the worst qualified edge players in the league. But that year is also an outlier in his career as he’s been solid to very good in each season from 2017-21, particularly as a rusher.
For the Packers, you have to like what the edge group has up top with Rashan Gary (once he returns off the PUP list), Preston Smith, and 2023 first-round pick Lukas Van Ness. There is also enticing potential beyond them with Justin Hollins, Kingsley Enagbare and UDFA gem Brenton Cox Jr. The issue with the depth group, though, is a lack of proven performance.
Though there is optimism that Gary could be ready by Week 1, it’s not a guarantee. And even whe he returns, Green Bay could use some more depth to ensure that the pass-rush doesn’t drop off should any injuries occur during the season.
After last season, Ngakoue should come quite cheap but with a track record of production. With that and his ability to just pin his ears back in this defense, this could be a sneaky great pickup that the Packers could make for training camp in free agency.