The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for substantial adjustments to their secondary in the upcoming offseason, with general manager Brian Gutekunst likely targeting top-tier talent in the free agent market.
ESPN analyst Aaron Schatz suggests that Gutekunst should focus on acquiring the best available talent to strengthen the team’s defensive backfield. Notably, the Packers’ top three safeties from the previous season—Darnell Savage, Rudy Ford, and Jonathan Owens—are all free agents. With only rookie seventh-round pick Anthony Johnson and a few infrequently used players remaining, Schatz sees this as an ideal opportunity for the Packers to rejuvenate the position with young free agents capable of anchoring the defense for years to come. He particularly recommends pursuing 26-year-old standout All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, should he become available.
As Darnell Savage’s contract is set to expire, it is anticipated that the veteran safety may explore opportunities elsewhere in 2024. Schatz believes that adding Winfield Jr. to the Packers’ roster would not only offer an immediate upgrade but also solidify the safety position.
Beyond Winfield Jr., Schatz identifies several other promising options for the Packers’ secondary, including Xavier McKinney of the New York Giants, Kyle Dugger of the New England Patriots, and Jordan Whitehead of the New York Jets. Each of these players brings unique skills that could enhance the Packers’ defensive capabilities.
While Winfield Jr. remains a key candidate for the Buccaneers, recent reports suggest that the team’s contract negotiations with quarterback Baker Mayfield could impact their ability to retain Winfield Jr. using the franchise tag. If Winfield Jr. becomes available in free agency, the Green Bay Packers would have a compelling opportunity to secure a high-impact player for their secondary.
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