Green Bay Packers Reportedly Could Be Interested in Signing Recently Released 3-Time Pro Bowler…
The Packers have bolstered their secondary by activating starting safety Darnell Savage from injured reserve, marking his return after missing the team’s last five games.
The recent challenges faced by Green Bay included playing with backup safeties Jonathan Owens and Anthony Johnson in the absence of starting strong safety Rudy Ford, who dealt with biceps and groin injuries in the last two games.
Jonathan Owens, who filled in for Savage during his time on injured reserve, struggled as a starter, ranking as the 75th-best safety in the league, according to Pro Football Focus. Owens faced similar difficulties during his lone season as a starter for the Texans last year, where he ranked 86th out of 88 players at the position. Meanwhile, Anthony Johnson, a seventh-round rookie, also faced challenges, grading as the 72nd safety, according to PFF, although he managed to secure an interception in one of his three starts this season.
With Savage’s return, he now has an opportunity to prove his worth in the remaining games of his contract year. Although the Packers exercised his fifth-year option in the 2022 offseason, there hasn’t been much indication of contract extension talks.
The decision to bench Savage for a four-game stretch last year raised questions about Green Bay’s commitment to the additional year on Savage’s rookie contract. However, with limited options, the Packers are compelled to start Savage, giving him a few more games to showcase his value ahead of free agency.
In addition to Savage’s activation, the Packers announced the elevation of fullback Henry Pearson and running back James Robinson from the practice squad for the upcoming Sunday night matchup with the Chiefs. Robinson, who spent time with the Patriots and Giants in the offseason, joined the Packers’ practice squad in mid-October after failing to secure a spot on a 53-man roster. Despite being on and off the practice squad and active roster, Robinson has yet to make an in-game appearance this season.
“Green Bay Packers’ Potential Interest in Recently Released Pro Bowler Zach Ertz Sparks Debate Amid Playoff Push”
The Green Bay Packers, contrary to preseason expectations, are currently in contention for an NFL Playoffs spot, with a 5-6 record, just half a game behind the final NFC wild card position. Recent reports suggest that the team may be considering signing three-time Pro Bowl tight end Zach Ertz, who was waived by the Arizona Cardinals.
Zach Ertz, initially traded to the Cardinals in 2021, had a strong start but faced recurring injury issues in 2022, leading to his release. With the Packers dealing with injuries to their rookie tight ends, particularly Luke Musgrave, who is on injured reserve, there is speculation about Green Bay’s interest in Ertz. However, it’s important to note that the Packers have not officially expressed interest, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.
Schultz mentioned that several teams, including the Eagles, Chiefs, Ravens, and Bills, have shown definite interest in Ertz, with the 49ers as a potential sleeper team. Despite some league insiders suggesting that the Packers could make sense as a destination for Ertz, there are reasons to doubt this speculation.
Firstly, Ertz’s injury history may pose a risk for the Packers, who already have a roster with young players dealing with injuries. Additionally, the Packers are known for being conservative with their spending, possibly limiting their pursuit of high-profile free agents. Lastly, Ertz, being in a stage of his career where he seeks both financial gain and a shot at another Super Bowl, may prioritize teams with stronger playoff prospects, and the Packers, while on the playoff bubble, are not considered a sure bet.
In summary, while the idea of Ertz joining the Packers is intriguing, it appears unlikely due to concerns about injuries, financial considerations, and the team’s current playoff standing.
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