Cons
Along with the linebacker position evolving and players being asked to do more, being able to cover running backs out of the backfield and tight ends is becoming more important than it has ever been. We are seeing the outside linebacker position transforming into what is essentially larger sized safeties that can rush the quarterback.
If there were anything that was just as automatic as Blake Martinez making a tackle, it’s the offenses ability to complete passes while he is in coverage. In 2018, Martinez had a 73.8% completion percentage while in coverage, giving up 9.1 yards per catch and a 118.9 QBR for opposing teams.
In 2019 we saw that number jump to a 83.8% completion percentage, while the QBR dropped to 102.1 and the yds/cmp stayed the same.
With the league trending more and more towards needing linebackers that can cover, it’s hard to imagine paying Martinez what he’s going to garner on the open market. He is projected to be in the five-year, $80 million range, which would pay him $16 million per year.
The Packers, however, are in a very good position to replace him in the first or second round of this years NFL Draft. Picking at No. 30 overall, they could land Oklahoma linebacker Kenneth Murray, who is ranked as one of the top three linebackers in this class. Also, Texas Tech linebacker Jordyn Brooks has been linked to them in the first or second round range and would be a great replacement at ILB for the Packers.
Where they sit with so many free agents to worry about and minimal room to work with salary cap wise, I most likely see the Packers filling their need at linebacker through the draft. Look for them to use that money elsewhere to secure other positions of need, whether that be within or outside their own organization.
All contract and free agent information obtained from spotrac.com.
