4 Free Agent Tight Ends Still Available Packers Should Consider

Oct 3, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Maxx Williams (87) runs the ball against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end Maxx Williams (87) runs the ball against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Green Bay Packers faced a setback as they bid farewell to tight end Tyler Davis, sidelined by an ACL injury during their first preseason game. This injury is the first significant one endured by the team throughout the training camp and preseason period.

Despite his placement as the third tight end on the depth chart, Davis poised himself for a pivotal role on special teams and as a linchpin blocker within the team’s positional landscape. The void left in his wake now amplifies the spotlight on rookies Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft, urging them to rise to the occasion.

The prospect of Marcedes Lewis stepping into the breach appeared ideal, had he not inked a contract with the Chicago Bears just last week. Now, Green Bay has a light list of proven players to choose from if they dip their toes into free agency to address the gap.

The Green Bay Packers should strongly consider these four free agent tight ends following the season-ending injury to Tyler Davis.

O.J. Howard

Should Green Bay be seeking a robust blocking presence, O.J. Howard is unlikely to align with their aspirations. His forte resides in his athleticism and pass-catching potential. Regrettably, his performance has trended downward over the last three seasons, casting a cloud of doubt over his efficacy as he embarks on the 2023 campaign. This prolonged decline has prompted scrutiny from multiple teams regarding his utility. Nonetheless, given the Packers’ pressing need, they might find themselves compelled to consider his potential contribution as they navigate their options.

Stephen Anderson

Stephen Anderson has played for three teams since entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2016–the Houston Texans, Los Angeles Chargers and Arizona Cardinals. He’s a decent blocker, which Green Bay is looking for at the position. Even better, he is a regular special teams contributor and could be a sleeper for the Packers to consider.

Cameron Brate

Cameron Brate is another big name for Green Bay to look at. However, he’s coming off his worst receiving season since he was a rookie and is on the wrong side of 30. The good news is he provides some blocking ability and can help mentor the young Packers’ tight ends.

Next. 4 Packers Boosting Roster Chances After First Preseason Game. dark

Maxx Williams

If the Packers are looking for the most impactful tight end remaining on the market, Maxx Williams is clearly their guy. He hasn’t done much in the receiving department since entering the NFL as a second-round draft pick in 2022, but he is a solid run-blocker, an area the Packers desperately need to address. He was PFF’s 26th-ranked run-blocker among all tight ends last year and has consistently shown the ability to get the job done in that area. He’d be a great fit for a team who wants to allow their young tight ends to grow.