REPORT: Packers Set to Acquire 3 Free Agents Ahead of Week 3 Amid Injury Crisis
The Green Bay Packers faced a challenging start to their 2024 season with a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, compounded by the injury to Jordan Love during the game. However, head coach Matt LaFleur had his team prepared for Week 2 with Malik Willis starting, leading to an impressive victory that got them on the board.
Like many teams, the Packers are grappling with injuries and have the chance to enhance their roster by exploring free-agent options. Thanks to current practice squad rules, any player available in NFL free agency is a potential target for Green Bay to bring in on a trial basis.
Which players could address the team’s needs at running back and linebacker?
Packers should consider signing these free agents before Week 3
1. Kwon Alexander, linebacker
Adding a veteran to this position group is fine, even though Quay Walker has had a difficult start to the season and the Packers will certainly want him to get his act together over the course of the next several games.
Throughout his NFL career, Kwon Alexander has been the epitome of a journeyman at linebacker, yet he has managed to contribute at almost every destination. Alexander’s speed, range, and blitzing skills allow him to contribute significantly to a defence when he’s fit.
2. Shaq Leonard, linebacker
Regarding veteran linebackers that are still available in free agency, Shaq Leonard has to be among the most well-known players. As a linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts, Leonard has been selected to three All-Pro teams and three Pro Bowls. He was a regular player for both the Colts and the Eagles in the previous season.
However, Leonard’s performance in the 2022 season fell short of what we have become accustomed to seeing from him. This could have been because he was recovering from a serious injury. Though perhaps not quite the same player as he was with the Colts, Leonard is certainly a “flyer” worth checking into.
3. Latavius Murray, running back
While Latavius Murray may not be expected to rush for 150 yards, the Green Bay Packers wouldn’t necessarily need him to do that. At 34, Murray has still demonstrated his effectiveness as a three-down back during his recent stints with the Buffalo Bills and Denver Broncos, recording 419 yards from scrimmage and four rushing touchdowns last year with the Bills. With AJ Dillon and rookie MarShawn Lloyd currently on IR, adding Murray could be a valuable move for the Packers.
While Josh Jacobs will likely handle the majority of the carries, having someone like Murray on the practice squad for depth and insurance would be beneficial for the team.