Green Bay Packers

Green Bay Packers: Predicting 5 Free Agents Team Will Sign in 2017

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 6:41 p.m. ET

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During 2017 NFL Free Agency, the Green Bay Packers need to make some impact signings if they're planning another deep playoff run this upcoming season.

Being a contender in the NFL isn't easy, but the Green Bay Packers sure do make it seem that way some times. While they fell short in 2016, a few big signings during 2017 NFL Free Agency could be just the push this roster needs to contend for its fifth Lombardi Trophy.

Now it may seem a little strange to imagine the Packers making "big" moves during the offseason. They've never been a team to invest loads of cap space in free agents, instead preferring to build via the draft and focus on their internal talent. That mindset could very well be thrown out in 2017, though.

As Packers News reported back in January, the normally conservative GM Ted Thompson could "show rare aggressiveness in the free-agent market." It would definitely be a deviation from the status quo for Thompson, but it may just be necessary with how the Packers have failed to live up expectations in recent seasons.

It also helps that they have about $40.3 million to work with, according to Spotrac.com.

So what can we expect from Green Bay when the new league year begins on March 9? I wouldn't go as far as saying they'll be big spenders, but don't be surprised to see a splash or two. With that in mind, let's take a look at my five predictions for players the Packers will sign when 2017 NFL Free Agency begins.

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5. Darren McFadden, RB – Dallas Cowboys

Realistically, the Packers need to make a move at running back this offseason. While drafting one seems inevitable, they could also opt to add an experienced veteran via free agency. Re-signing Eddie Lacy is rumored to be an option, but I believe they should take a different route.

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Now I understand your concern—Darren McFadden isn't the most reliable of options. He's been rather prone to injury throughout his career, but is a serious playmaker when healthy. Seeing as he rarely saw the field a season ago, it seems like he should be at full strength and ready to contribute regularly.

It's assumed Ty Montgomery will maintain hold of the starting running back gig for the time being. Once other backs are added to the mix, though, he could find himself back at wide receiver. If that's not the case, the Packers could at least use a reliable backup who can provide some power to complement Montgomery's speed and quickness.

McFadden fits the bill with his impressive mix of speed and strength. As long as he's healthy, the former top pick seems like the ideal fit for Green Bay's No. 2 running back role. As long as his asking price isn't too high, I believe McFadden could be headed for the Midwest in the near future.

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4. Alex Okafor, OLB – Arizona Cardinals

With three outside linebackers headed for free agency, the Packers could use an influx of edge rushing talent. While the options on the open market are limited, I believe a player like Alex Okafor could be a short-term fix for Green Bay's shortcomings.

Even if the Packers do re-sign Nick Perry or Datone Jones, more depth is needed on the outside. At times in 2016, Green Bay's defense struggled to make opposing quarterbacks uncomfortable. With the shortage of talent and Clay Matthews' fading skills, more playmakers are needed—that's where Okafor comes in.

Before you freak out, let me clarify that Okafor is no superstar off the edge. However, he is a capable contributor who has shined as a pass rusher in the past. Over the last three years, the former fourth-round pick has started 25 games and racked up 13.5 sacks. Plus, he's only 26 years old—Okafor is still in his prime.

My guess is he won't cost too much on the open market. There should be some resistance from Arizona to let him walk, but the Packers have the spending power to pry him away and stiffen up their depth at outside linebacker.

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3. Austin Pasztor, OG/OT – Cleveland Browns

There's a very good chance the Packers lose two of their starting interior blockers this offseason. Both T.J. Lang and J.C. Tretter are expected to test the open market, and may find bigger offers than Green Bay is willing to match. That could leave them rather thin along the front five.

Luckily, there are some mid-tier options for the Packers to fill the void. Center won't be a huge priority with Corey Linsley capable of stepping into the starting role, but more talent will be needed at guard. The pending free agency of veteran utility blocker Don Barclay doesn't make things any easier.

Austin Pasztor, however, would give them some serious flexibility along the offensive line. The Cleveland Browns starter is coming off an outstanding 2016 campaign. He started every game at right tackle, earning impressive marks from Pro Football Focus for his efforts.

Now keep in mind that Pasztor spent his early NFL years at guard. He's got plenty of experience along the interior, but obviously boasts the flexibility to shine nearly anywhere along the front five. The Packers love versatility in their offensive linemen, which makes the Virginia product a terrific free agency fit. That is, unless the Browns find a way to retain him.

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2. Zach Brown, ILB – Buffalo Bills

Personally, I believe Blake Martinez can be a star for the Green Bay defense in time. However, the other inside linebacker position needs some reinforcements heading into 2017. Look no further than Zach Brown, one of the most underrated inside linebackers in the NFL.

Believe it or not, Brown is easily one of the better 3-4 inside linebackers right now. Last season with the Bills, he racked up a whopping 149 tackles while also adding four sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles. It took a change of scenery, but Brown finally unlocked the potential that made a 2012 second-round pick.

While some might say he has the looks of a one-year wonder, I'm confident he'd keep his momentum going with the Packers. What I really like about his potential fit in Green Bay, though, is how well-rounded of a linebacker he is. Not only can he play the run with the best of them, but he also wins in coverage with great instincts and athleticism.

WGR 550 Buffalo believes the Bills will make an effort to re-sign Brown, but I don't see that happening. He's a poor fit as they transition to a 4-3 defense under new head coach Sean McDermott. The Packers, however, can offer an ideal opportunity for him to step in as a starter and thrive.

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1. Stephon Gilmore, CB – Buffalo Bills

If there's any position the Packers are going to spend big at this offseason, it's cornerback. They already parted ways with Sam Shields, which leaves youngsters Damarious Randall, Quinten Rollins and Ladarius Gunter as the top options. That situation must improve.

Several names have been tossed around as candidates to join Green Bay's defense. However, I believe it'll be Stephon Gilmore who signs with the Packers when all is said and done. Why? Because I think he offers the most potential for the most reasonable of prices.

Sure, they could go after someone like A.J. Bouye (who I already predicted would sign with the Bears). However, he's probably going to cost more than Thompson wants to spend. With Gilmore, though, the Packers would be getting a proven playmaker at cornerback with a slightly smaller price tag.

Especially with a loaded rookie 2017 cornerback class, teams won't want to overspend on veteran cornerbacks. Gilmore is reportedly looking for $14 million annually in his new deal, but I wouldn't be surprised to see that number drop a bit once he hits the open market.

The Packers know they need to spend big to get over the hump in 2017. You better believe they'll still be smart about it, though. By getting Gilmore, they upgrade their cornerback position without completely breaking the bank.