Green Bay Packers: 4 Bold predictions for 2019 NFL free agency
By Joe Kipp
The Green Bay Packers enter a pivotal offseason after a disappointing 2018. Here are four bold predictions for the Packers in 2019 NFL free agency.
If the Green Bay Packers want to improve quickly, they’ll look to free agency as a potential crutch. That said, finding the right fits could prove to be extremely costly. On a roster with several holes — some bigger than others — Green Bay will more than likely sign a big name or two to help bolster their star power.
As general manager Brian Gutekunst said last month (per Packers Wire), the Packers would like to be “really active” in the upcoming 2019 NFL free agency period. Whether Gutekunst elects to go with several smaller names at a more reasonable price, or a couple bigger names with hefty price tags, Green Bay will undoubtedly exit free agency with a few new faces.
By connecting the dots based on current rumors, here are four bold predictions for the Packers in free agency:
OLB Justin Houston signs three-year deal
Justin Houston has been one of the better pass rushers of the past decade. That said, he’s already 30 years old and appears to have lost a step. The Kansas City Chiefs recently released Houston after eight seasons in an effort to clear up cap space. Kansas City saves nearly $15 million in 2019 in the process.
The Packers could swoop in and sign Houston to a much more team-friendly deal, especially since Houston’s former outside linebacker coach in Kansas City, Mike Smith, joined the team this offseason. With 78.5 sacks over eight years, what’s not to like? I believe Green Bay signs Houston to a three-year deal at around $10-12 million per season.
OLB Za’Darius Smith signs four-year, $45 million deal
The Packers have connected interest with former Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith stemming from last season. According to NBC’s Peter King, Green Bay tried trading for Smith.
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With former Ravens front office executive Milt Hendrickson leaving Baltimore this offseason, and now serving as Director of Football Operations for the Packers, the connection becomes even stronger. I believe the Packers are a desired landing spot for Smith, and predict he signs a four-year deal in the neighborhood of $45-50 million. Coming off a season of 8.5 sacks, Smith would add much-needed depth at a very thin position.
S Landon Collins signs five-year, $60 million deal
Green Bay has shown vested interest in Landon Collins according to several reports. The safety positions remains one of the weakest links on the entire team, and Collins fits the bill as a potential suitor to shore up the position.
At 25 years old, the three-time Pro Bowler and one-time All-Pro has plenty to bring to the table in regards to skill-set. Although a better run defender than cover safety, Collins would add the flexibility needed in defensive coordinator Mike Pettine’s scheme. I believe Collins signs a contract worth $12 million annually.
Packers trade for Chiefs OLB Dee Ford
Coming off the best season of his career, Dee Ford is rumored to be on the trade block with the Packers and San Francisco 49ers showing the most interest. Ford was franchise tagged last week, giving Kansas City control over his rights for 2019.
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If Green Bay were to trade for Ford, it’s expected that they’d need to give up pick No. 44 and possibly a mid-round selection, as well. Ford, who’s coming off a season with 13 sacks, is an ascending pass rusher at just 28 years old. Assuming the Packers acquire Ford via trade, they’d certainly sign him to a new contract extension. A new deal worth $15 million per year seems most likely.