The Green Bay Packers experienced a dynamic 2023 season that unfolded with notable events from start to finish.
Ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft, the team made a significant move by trading their longtime franchise player Aaron Rodgers, who led them to a Super Bowl victory in the 2010 season,
Widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, Rodgers was dealt to the New York Jets, along with a 2023 first-round pick and a 2023 fifth-round pick.
In return, the Packers acquired a haul from the Jets, including a 2023 first-round pick, a 2023 second-round pick, a 2023 sixth-round pick, and a conditional 2024 second-round pick.
Initially expected to undergo a rebuilding phase, the Packers struggled in the first half of the season, posting a 3-6 record. However, they turned the tide in the latter part of the season, finishing with a 6-2 record in their final eight games.
Fourth-year quarterback Jordan Love had a breakout campaign in his first year as a starter, putting up a passer rating of 96.1 with 4,159 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.
The Packers ended the season with a 9-8 record, securing the 2nd position in the NFC North division and clinching the final playoff berth, making them the youngest team to reach the playoffs since the NFL expanded to 16 games in 1978.
In the Wild Card round, the Packers made history by becoming the first 7th-seed to win a playoff game, delivering a stunning upset with a 48-32 victory over the 2nd-seed Dallas Cowboys.
However, their playoff journey ended in the Divisional round, where they narrowly lost 24-21 to the eventual Super Bowl runners-up San Francisco 49ers.
Read more: 3 Players San Francisco 49ers Must Target in Free Agency to Get Back to Super Bowl Contention
3 players Green Bay Packers must target in free agency to become Super Bowl Contenders
1. Tee Higgins
After an unsuccessful contract negotiations with the Cincinnati Bengals last year, wide receiver Tee Higgins is on track to enter free agency for the upcoming 2024 NFL season.
During the 2023 season, Higgins demonstrated his skills with 42 catches for 656 yards and contributed five touchdowns across 12 games.
Despite being a star receiver, Higgins was somewhat overshadowed by another alpha receiver, Ja'Marr Chase, within one of the NFL's premier and deepest receiver groups with the Bengals.
As the Packers seek to bolster their roster, there's a clear need for a standout receiver, as Christian Watson appears to be more suited for a supporting role. Acquiring a true standout would greatly help enhance Jordan Love's support in his second year as the starting quarterback.
2. Saquon Barkley
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley emerges as another viable option to enhance the Packers' offense, particularly in the running game.
The 27-year-old athlete had 247 carries for 962 yards and an impressive 10 touchdowns in 14 games during the 2023 season.
While injuries have challenged Barkley's performance in recent years, he remains a generational talent in his position.
In terms of financial considerations, the contract projection for Barkley doesn't demand top-tier money. Additionally, the Packers have a cost-effective group of wide receivers and tight ends, creating flexibility for potential significant investments in other areas of the team.
3. Emmanuel Ogbah
Linebacker Emmanuel Ogbah, who most recently played for the Miami Dolphins and is a former Super Bowl champion, stands out as another compelling option.
Despite the team having reinforced its defensive front in recent years, there's a potential desire to strengthen their pass rush in the upcoming offseason.
While not in the prime of his career, Ogbah continues to perform at a notably high level.
His experience could make him a valuable asset, offering mentorship to players like second-year defensive end Lukas Van Ness.
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