Packers 2021 NFL Draft primer: Is this still Aaron Rodgers team?
By Mark Sipos
2021 offseason moves thus far
General Manager Brian Gutekunst has been very quiet so far to start the NFL offseason. The Packers’ biggest signing this offseason was keeping Pro Bowl running back Aaron Jones. One of the best in the league, Jones is a huge part of the Green Bay Packers offense, both as a runner and as a pass-catcher. Paired with second-year man AJ Dillon, the Packers will have yet again another formidable running attack. Though Jones’ new contract is for four total years, Green Bay can easily escape the contract after the 2023 season if they so choose to. Still, seeing Green Bay pay Jones after drafting Dillon in the second round a year before is a bit of a head-scratcher.
Another re-signing that caught some fans off-guard is cornerback Kevin King. King, who is infamous for his lackluster performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Conference championship game, is brought back to add depth and competition to the cornerback room. This signing should be viewed as insurance in case Green Bay is not able to land an upgrade during the offseason, whether it comes during the draft or free agency prior to the start of the season.
Other key returning players from last season include tight end Marcedes Lewis, wide receiver Allen Lazard, safety Will Redmond and defensive lineman Tyler Lancaster. Green Bay’s only free agent signing from another team so far has been long snapper Joe Fortunato, who was last with the Dallas Cowboys and has not logged a snap in his NFL career.