Former Pro Bowl TE possible free agent target for Packers

Free agency begins on March 15 at 4 p.m. ET.

Positional needs: WR, TE, S, OG

Projected to be $16.28 million over the salary cap heading into 2023, the Green Bay Packers are probably more focused on clearing cap space than spending it. However, the team does have a few positions that need upgrading, primarily on offense. 

Not counting his injury-shortened 2017, Aaron Rodgers threw for his fewest single-season yards (3,695) since 2015. He could use a new weapon or two. Green Bay also allowed 162 QB pressures and 32 sacks, so bulking up the offensive line should be a top priority as well. Any free agent moves Green Bay makes should be done on the cheap.

Austin Hooper, TE, Tennessee Titans

Spotrac projects Hooper’s market value around $6.7 million per season, but after an underwhelming season in Tennessee (41 receptions, 441 yards, two touchdowns) he likely could be had for substantially less on another one-year prove-it deal. Hooper never found his groove with the Titans, thanks in part to the emergence of rookie Chig Okonkwo and the team rotating through three quarterbacks.

Whether it’s Aaron Rodgers or Jordan Love potentially throwing him the ball in 2023, Green Bay appears to be a more desirable situation for Hooper. If Rodgers does indeed return next year, it could be just the thing to help Hooper regain his Pro Bowl form of 2018-2019.

 Mack Hollins, WR, Las Vegas Raiders

With Allen Lazard making it clear he won’t be returning, and Randall Cobb’s future still up in the air, Romeo Doubs and Christian Watson are Green Bay’s top returning receivers. While both likely will take a step forward in their development in Year 2, the Packers need a stabilizing veteran presence in the receiver room. Enter Hollins.

Prior to this year, the 29-year-old had never had more than 16 receptions in a season. But with Hunter Renfrow limited to 10 games, Hollins took on an expanded role in Vegas’ offense, hauling in 57 receptions, 690 yards and four touchdowns. With a projected market value is just $2.4 million per year, Hollins could make a perfect No. 3 option with Doubs and Watson for whoever is under center in 2023.