The Green Bay Packers are getting close to the start of training camp and there is still a lot of drama surrounding the franchise. Will Aaron Rodgers play or will he choose to sit out the season in an attempt to force a trade? While we may not know the answer to that for awhile, the Packers should still be looking for ways to improve their roster.
So far, the team has had a very quiet offseason. They did make any major moves in free agency outside of re-signing Aaron Jones. A late move to sign linebacker De’Vondre Campbell was a bit of a surprise, but the Packers should still have their eyes on one free agent that is still on the market.
Kenny Clark is one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL. He has been a one-man wrecking crew on the line for the Packers, but could use some help. Green Bay tried to get him some help last year with the late-season addition of Snacks Harrison, but that move didn’t end up making a huge impact.
Looking at the free agency market, the Packers should absolutely consider bringing in veteran defensive tackle Geno Atkins.
Atkins is not the superstar that he once was with the Cincinnati Bengals, but he would be well worth a one-year deal. He has been unable to land with a new team so far this offseason, but the Packers should view this as a very low-risk and potentially super high reward type of signing.
Last year with the Bengals, Atkins only ended up playing in eight games and recorded just one tackle. Back in 2019, he made an impact for Cincinnati, racking up 47 total tackles to go along with 4.5 sacks. He can still be a player that makes a difference, especially being the No. 2 defensive tackle alongside Clark.
Standing in at 6-foot-1 and just over 300 pounds, Atkins would be another big body on the defensive line. The Packers would not be relying on him to be a superstar. All they would need him to be is consistent and help them slow down opposing offenses on the ground.
At 33 years of age, Atkins would likely welcome the idea of a one-year deal with the Packers. He would be able to compete for a starting job and also compete for a Super Bowl. That could help rejuvenate his career in the short-term.
Expect to see Brian Gutekunst keep his eyes open for talent that he can afford. Green Bay may opt to stand pat and enter the season with their current roster. However, at least considering the option of signing Geno Atkins should be explored.
“Last year with the Bengals, Atkins only ended up playing in eight games and recorded just one tackle.” The packers should consider signing him? You must be a Vikings or Bear fan.