4 free agents the Packers should happily let leave
Nov 27, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) scrambles away from Green Bay Packers linebacker Justin Hollins (47) during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
The Aaron Rodgers saga will dominate headlines in Green Bay this offseason, but the Packers need to let these four free agents walk.
GM Brian Gutekunst and the Packers’ front office will largely be judged on what happens at the quarterback position this offseason. Resolving Aaron Rodgers’ future has to be the team’s top priority. That doesn’t mean it’s the only decision the Packers need to make in free agency.
Much attention will be paid to the various additions the organization makes to strengthen the roster, but it’s equally important that Green Bay allows the correct free agents to leave. Overpaying any veterans could hamstring the team for years to come.
The Packers don’t have the cap space required to make any expensive mistakes in free agency. Retaining any of the four free agents would be a costly mistake.
4. The Green Bay Packers don’t need Justin Hollins
Hollins managed to notch four sacks as a reserve pass-rusher this year but his overall PFF grade of just 54 better illustrates just how flawed the 27-year-old is as a player. There’s no reason for the Packers to further invest in his development.
Instead, Green Bay needs to look to find a younger, better option backup for Preston Wilson at his outside linebacker spot. The injury Rashan Gary suffered during the season also puts more pressure on the Packers to add a potential starter who can play on either side of the formation. Hollins can’t be relied upon to be a starter for any length of time. He’s not even a quality backup. That’s why the Packers should let him depart in free agency and spend a mid-round draft pick on a player who can be a part of their defensive core for years to come.
