This summer, the Green Bay Packers defense is expected to see some improvements made to the coaching staff, the roster, or both.
On Saturday, January 20, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox looked at the defense’s needs as well as a few upcoming free agents that
might have an impact right away in 2024.
In 2023, a contract year for the 24-year-old linebacker, Queen enjoyed a breakout season with the Baltimore Ravens.
Based on 133 tackles, 6 pass breakups, 3.5 sacks, 1 interception, and a forced fumble, Queen was selected for the second team of the
Pro Bowl and received his first Pro Bowl mention, according to Pro Football Reference. Out of 83 players that saw enough snaps to be
eligible for the position, Pro Football Focus evaluated Queen as the 25th-best linebacker in the NFL in 2023. Queen has started every
game in his four-year career (67 games).
The Baltimore Ravens, who are still in the running for the AFC playoffs, will host the championship game on January 28 either the
Kansas City Chiefs or the Buffalo Bills. But when their tenure ends, Queen will have finished his
Queen was formerly selected in the first round out of LSU; however, Baltimore rejected his $12.7 million fifth-year option last
offseason. As a result, Queen will become a free agent in March. Over a new five-year contract, Spotrac puts his market worth at $92.6
million, or around $18.5 million per year.
With just under $8 million in salary cap space available right now, Green Bay could find it challenging to negotiate that type of deal.
But by releasing or selling running back Aaron Jones ($11.3 million in savings with post-June 1 designation) and left tackle David
Bakhtiari ($21 million in savings), the club may free up a significant amount of room.
Linebacker De’Vondre Campbell is another player that might be cut off the cap. In March 2022, Campbell inked a five-year, $50
million contract after having a breakthrough season with the Packers the year before. After signing the contract, though, Campbell has
struggled with injuries, missing six games this past season in addition to four in 2022.
As a result, Campbell’s output has decreased, which may put him under pressure this summer. By releasing or moving Campbell after
June 1, the Packers will be able to save more than $10.5 million against the cap. Queen, on the other hand, plays the same position at a
better level and with more assurance of his health given his previous performance.
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