Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson's release from the New York Jets isn't official quite yet, but he already has his first visit with another team lined up for when he does actually become a free agent. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Wilkerson plans to visit the Green Bay Packers in the first of what could be several stops as he looks for a new home this offseason.
Wilkerson, 28, spent his first seven seasons in the NFL with the Jets. He emerged as one of the best young defensive linemen in the game and had a terrific 2015 season which saw him record a career-high 12 sacks.
But since signing a big five-year, $86 million extension in 2016, his play dropped significantly in each of the last two seasons. Wilkerson has had just eight sacks in the past two years combined, including 3.5 in 13 games with the Jets last season.
New Green Bay general manager Brian Gutekunst has said the team plans to be more aggressive in the free-agent market this offseason compared to previous GM Ted Thompson, and Wilkerson's visit appears to be a move consistent with that statement. Wilkerson certainly has the potential to be that type of impact signing the Packers desperately need, especially on defense.
The Packers just hired one of Wilkerson’s former Jets coaches in defensive coordinator Mike Pettine this offseason. Wilkerson spent his first two seasons under Pettine in New York, and the Packers likely hope Pettine can help Wilkerson rediscover his best form in Green Bay.
Wilkerson's possible addition would give the Packers another talented defensive lineman to put aside Mike Daniels, who earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl this season, and former first-round pick Kenny Clark.