Packers: 5 defensive players to avoid in 2021 free agency

The Green Bay Packers have very limited resources to use in free agency and general manager Brian Gutekunst must ensure there are no missteps with the franchise’s available money. The team still has to get under the salary cap before they can even think about adding new players, and then must find a way to get lower yet and have the capacity to bring new guys on.

That likely means a number of contract restructures, an extension and likely a player or three to be cut. Although it will make their future cap U-G-L-Y, it will create some flexibility for them to remain in win-now mode.

If the Packers want to ensure they don’t blow their current championship window, they must stay away from these five free agent defensive players no matter what.

The Green Bay Packers must ensure they completely avoid these five defensive players in the 2021 free agent class at all costs.

Free Agent to avoid 5: Jonathan Hankins, Defensive Lineman

Jonathan Hankins is coming off the worst season of his NFL career, and he’s recorded three of his four lowest PFF grades in the last three seasons. That’s not a good sign for the soon-to-be 29-year-old, as it will be difficult for him to get back to being one of the best run defenders like he was earlier in his career. He’s missed a ton of tackles and provides little to no pass-rush ability. Green Bay should avoid him if he’s truly taken a step back in his run defense.