Green Bay Packers: Grading First Wave of Free Agency Moves

Veteran Signings

Ricky Wagner

The Packers agreed to a two-year, $11 million deal with right tackle Ricky Wagner early in free agency. Wagner will seemingly replace Bryan Bulaga on the offensive line, as the Packers felt Bulaga was too expensive to retain.

Wagner has fought through injuries throughout most of his career, but has much more available than Bulaga during that time. However, it’s a clear upgrade at right tackle, as Bulaga is one of the best right tackles when available. Regardless, it was a low-cost move at the position that will hopefully allow Gutekunst to address other areas of need.

Grade: B-

Christian Kirksey

Where the Packers likely got more durable at right tackle, they’re taking a bigger injury risk at inside linebacker. Christian Kirksey has only played in nine total games over the past two years, but has the potential for a greater impact than last year’s starter Blake Martinez.

When healthy, Kirksey can fly all over the field and play with aggressiveness Green Bay has lacked at the position for years. Although he’s not a good cover linebacker, he can still move sideline to sideline fairly easily. Kirksey also brings tremendous leadership, something the Packers have been addressing in the last couple of years.

Grade: B