Green Bay Packers: 5 Free agents to sign before training camp
By Joe Kipp
4. Everson Griffen, DE
The Packers have two star pass-rushers in Za’Darius and Preston Smith, but teams can never have enough players capable of getting after the quarterback. There’s been reported mutual interest between the Packers and free-agent defensive end Everson Griffen. If he were to be signed, Griffen would add a dynamic presence to Green Bay’s defensive line.
This is interesting: As long-time #Vikings DE and current free agent Everson Griffen narrows down his choices, the rival #Packers are among the teams to express interest. That interest is mutual. Minnesota coach Mike Zimmer had recently said he wants Griffen back, as well.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 27, 2020
Griffen, who spent the last decade of his career with the Minnesota Vikings, has been one of the NFL’s most feared pass-rushers in recent years. The 32-year old has 74.5 career sacks, including three seasons in the double-digits. Though he’s not been as productive as he once was, Griffen would still be a contributing force to any defensive line as a rotational player.
The Packers wouldn’t need Griffen to be a starter, either. With the Smith Bros. intact for at least three more seasons, and former first-rounder Rashan Gary also in the fold, Griffen would add great depth to an already scary pass-rushing unit.
If the Packers were to sign Griffen, it’d likely be to a short-term deal. A defensive front of the Smiths, Kenny Clark and Griffen would be a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Not to mention the fact that Griffen would be another mentor for the younger Gary.