The Green Bay Packers had a relatively quiet offseason, although many fans are upset with what general manager Brian Gutekunst put together. One move that fans do like, however, is the move to sign linebacker Christian Kirksey in free agency.

Granted, it comes with some risk due to the health issues that Kirksey has had over the last couple of years. He is far from a guarantee to be a massive addition. But, if he stays healthy and plays up to his potential, Kirksey could be the missing piece in the middle of the Packers’ defense.

Over the last two years with the Cleveland Browns, Kirksey was only able to play in nine of the possible 32 games. Back in 2017, however, he played in all 16 games and racked up 138 total tackles to go along with 3.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and five defended passes.

Last season, it became apparent that the Packers needed more athleticism at inside linebacker. Blake Martinez was a tackle machine, but he wasn’t able to play sideline to sideline. Kirksey brings speed and athleticism to the position.

All of that being said, let’s dive in and take a look at three ways Kirksey could impact the Packers’ defense in 2020.