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The Green Bay Packers entered this upcoming offseason with uncertainty. The dismissal of Mike McCarthy forced the Packers to hire Titans offensive coordinator Matt LeFleur. But there are two major concerns that the Packers must face. The first is whether or not their quarterback, Aaron Rodgers can be durable for the next few years. Second, if the Packers can surround him with adequate talent.
March 13 is when free agency begins and the Packers will have the opportunity to shape their roster to their liking. But their outlook for next season could possibly change with the trade for one player: New York Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr.
Yes, Beckham is a handful to deal with personality wise. His antics on the field can rub you the wrong way, too. But if a trade for Beckham is on the table, the Packers should at least look into it. Beckham's big play ability, when healthy, his rivals very few.
But his production hasn't translated to wins as of late. Since Beckham has arrived in New York, the Giants have had one playoff appearance. Beckham and the Giants perhaps have made their 2016 Miamigate exit a mere footnote.
Instead, Beckham has been known more for his gaudy receiving stats and antics than his ability to lead and win. Beckham would show maturation post-Miamigate and be rewarded a hefty contract this past August. But Beckham's five years has only provided highlights and injuries. With the decline of Eli Manning, offloading his contract may be the best idea moving forward.
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A trade to Green Bay could give Beckham a much-needed restart on his career. Of course, it will also pair him with another prodigious talent in Rodgers. Rodgers could finally have a receiver who can beat corners deep, over the middle and burn defenses for YAC yardage. Beckham will have a quarterback whose talent is limitless: a bad game for Beckham won't spell the end of the world.
Too often both the Giants and Packers had to rely on Beckham and Rodgers to bail them out in certain games. This, in turn, became the penalty for both franchises because they elected to not add on more talent via the draft, trades or free agency. To combat the Packers deficiency, why not attempt to pair both while they are in their prime?
While both players would be a match that could terrorize NFC North defenses, the Packers will have to decide if they want to take on Beckham's baggage-and his contract. Beckham's deal with the Giants is worth $95 million, with $65 million to be guaranteed. The roadblock the Packers face is that Rodgers deal is the largest in NFL history. He's set for four years and $134 million, with $80 million to be paid by March. On top of that, coupled with a $57.5 million signing bonus. While getting Beckham is not impossible, it's a deal that could be boom or bust for the Packers.
But the window for Rodgers is closing, and a home run shot for a marquee talent is the Packers best chance. While Beckham has his issues, placing a talent like his next to Rodgers could be every Packer's fan dream. That is if the Packers are set to face reality and take the gamble.
