Green Bay Packers: Who Could They Spend Big On?

Dec 1, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) is sacked by Washington Redskins outside linebacker Brian Orakpo (98) in the first quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Nobody should expect the Green Bay Packers to go crazy in free agency, but with $30 million to spend, who are some big names they could eye?

Brian Orakpo

It would be a match made in heaven.  Sack mastery Brian Orakpo comes up from Washington to form a potentially devastating pass rush combination with Clay Matthews.  Orakpo has given few hints as to his motives.  It’s clear he wants to get paid, but the lingering question is whether he wants to leave the Redskins.  After a 3-13 seasons nobody would blame him if he did.

Lamarr Houston

The plan is if the Packers do throw their hat into the market they will be on the lookout to make their front seven, particularly the defensive line more athletic and disruptive.  Defensive end Lamarr Houston would make a great fit.  Not only is his quick and fast but he boasts a strong, 300 lbs frame that could be used a variety of different ways by Dom Capers.

Clinton McDonald

Probably the most overlooked defensive lineman expected to hit free agency.  Clinton McDonald was lost in that sea of talent they have up in Seattle.  Despite limited playing time the defensive tackle posted 5.5 sacks.  He should be eager for more playing time and his disruptive ability and size are exactly what the Packers are looking for.

Corey Peters

There wasn’t much to celebrate for the Atlanta Falcons defense but defensive tackle Corey Peters was certainly one of the few bright spots.  In addition to making 46 tackles he posted five sacks on the season.  At age 25 his best years are ahead of him and it’s not clear whether Atlanta will make a push to keep him in house.  That is prime territory for the Green Bay Packers to steal him.

Jason Worilds

Harped on for a long time for not producing enough, the Pittsburgh Steelers finally saw life out of linebacker Jason Worilds.  The fourth-year man posted eight sacks on the season along with 63 tackles and two forced fumbles.  This despite starting just 11 games.  He is an active rusher and durable by all accounts.  He would fit in nicely with the Packers core and at a much more agreeable price.