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Packers: 5 defensive players to avoid in 2021 free agency

By Brian Sampson

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 13: Nyheim Hines #21 of the Indianapolis Colts attempts to run past D.J. Hayden #25 of the Jacksonville Jaguars during the game at TIAA Bank Field on September 13, 2020 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 13: Nyheim Hines #21 of the Indianapolis Colts attempts to run past D.J. Hayden #25 of the Jacksonville Jaguars during the game at TIAA Bank Field on September 13, 2020 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images) /
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ORCHARD PARK, NY – NOVEMBER 08: Trent Murphy #93 of the Buffalo Bills on the sideline against the Seattle Seahawks at Bills Stadium on November 8, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY – NOVEMBER 08: Trent Murphy #93 of the Buffalo Bills on the sideline against the Seattle Seahawks at Bills Stadium on November 8, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

Free Agent to avoid 4: Trent Murphy, EDGE

It was a surprise to hear Gutekunst say Preston Smith will likely be back with the team following his disappointing 2020 campaign and huge cap hit on their 2021 salary sheet. If that’s truly the case, the Packers likely won’t be in the market for a role player at outside linebacker.

However, if they do move on from Smith (like they should), it’s conceivable they’d be looking to add a rotational player at the position. And if that’s the case, they shouldn’t look in Trent Murphy’s direction. Just on the wrong side of 30, Murphy is coming off a down season for the Buffalo Bills and might not have much left in the tank. He’s a middle-of-the-pack pass-rusher and run defender which doesn’t inspire excitement in either category.

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