Green Bay Packers: 3 Free Agent ILBs to Target

Joe Schobert

Drafted out of Wisconsin in the fourth-round of the 2016 NFL Draft – the same round and year as Blake Martinez – Joe Schobert has had a very nice start to his career in Cleveland.

During his second season in 2017, Schobert would lead the NFL in tackles with 144 and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl. However, over the last two years we have seen his tackle numbers drop off and he did struggle in 2018 consistently bringing players down. Admittedly this is an area where Martinez is better, but the margin isn’t huge by any means.

On the flip side, where Schobert has the advantage is in coverage and in playmaking ability. According to Pro Football Focus, in 2018 Schobert had a coverage grade of 87.7, the second highest among inside linebackers. He was also first in snaps per reception with 21.3, snaps per target with 12.9, and yards given up per snap with 0.42.

Unfortunately, Schobert didn’t sustain that level of play in 2019 as his coverage grade fell to 67.6, which was 15th among linebackers, but still ahead of Martinez. And it’s also worth pointing out that he played at a higher level for much of the season, but he had a rough stretch to end the year.

When it comes to playmaking, over his career Schobert has tallied 8.5 sacks, 20 pass breakups, six interceptions, seven forced fumbles and 19 quarterback hits. All of which are more than what Martinez has produced in each respective category, except when it comes to sacks.

In free agency Schobert isn’t going to be cheap but his ability in coverage and to make plays will be a welcomed sight in Green Bay if they decide to sign him.