Green Bay Packers: 5 Top targets in 2020 NFL free agency
By Joe Kipp
1. Cory Littleton, LB
The Packers have a big decision to make regarding impending free agent linebacker Blake Martinez. Assuming the team allows Martinez to sign elsewhere, the Packers will be without a signal caller in the middle of their defense. Cory Littleton would be an upgrade at the position while also providing stability at the inside linebacker position.
Undrafted in 2016, Littleton was a core special-teamer who earned a starting role after the Los Angeles Rams traded away Alec Ogletree to the New York Giants two seasons ago. In 2018, Littleton made the Pro Bowl and was named a Second-team All-Pro selection as a special-teamer.
Littleton had a productive season in 2019, amassing 134 tackles (78 solo), six tackles for losses, two interceptions, nine passes defensed, two forced fumbles and 3.5 sacks. He was rated Pro Football Focus’ (subscription required) No. 7 overall linebacker during the regular season, as well as the No. 7 linebacker in terms of pass coverage grade.
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The Packers defense struggled covering the middle of the field last season, partly due to Martinez’s weaknesses being exposed. Signing Littleton, who just turned 26 years old in November, would change the entire complexion of Green Bay’s defense. Don’t be surprised if the Packers make Littleton a priority signing in March.