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Packers Nearing Smart, Unexpected Move for Former Top-10 Pick
Although the initial frenzy of NFL free agency has died down, teams are still on the hunt for roster reinforcements ahead of the draft. While the biggest names have already signed, several valuable players remain available. One such player is now meeting with the Green Bay Packers.
Green Bay’s defense showed major improvement last season under coordinator Jeff Hafley. The unit increased its interception total and ranked in the top 10 in sacks, despite some inconsistency in the pass rush. However, the linebacker corps still has a few question marks.
After losing Eric Wilson to the Vikings in free agency and with Quay Walker approaching the final year of his rookie deal (unless the team picks up his fifth-year option), the Packers are left with young players like Edgerrin Cooper and Ty’Ron Hopper, second-year players, along with Isaiah McDuffie and veteran Kristian Welch.
Isaiah Simmons Visits Green Bay
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the Packers are hosting free agent linebacker Isaiah Simmons. A former top-10 pick (No. 8 overall in 2020), Simmons began his career with the Cardinals—where he earned PFWA All-Rookie honors—before being traded to the Giants, where he transitioned from linebacker to safety.
Simmons’ athleticism and versatility would be a strong asset for Green Bay, offering depth at both linebacker and safety. He’s also made a significant impact on special teams, logging 370 snaps and earning an impressive 88.2 PFF grade in that role over the last two seasons.
The Packers have the cap space to make a move and could solve depth issues at multiple positions without dipping into their draft picks. It would be wise not to let Simmons leave Lambeau without a deal.
Draft Speculation Comes Full Circle
Early offseason predictions suggested Green Bay might finally take a wide receiver in the first round—something the franchise has historically avoided. But with Christian Watson expected to miss significant time and the Packers bringing in more wideouts than any other position during pre-draft visits, it seems that assumption might not be so far-fetched after all.
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