When Green Bay Packers cornerback Sam Shields suffered a brutal concussion (the reported fourth of his career) in Week 1 of the 2016 season, it appeared that his career might be over. The injury eventually landed the 2014 Pro Bowler on Injured Reserve, and Green Bay released him after the season.
After not playing a down in 2017, Shields is attempting a comeback, according to the ESPN's Adam Schefter. And, very quickly, he already has meetings set with the Cleveland Browns and Los Angeles Rams.
Former Packers’ CB Sam Shields is resuming his NFL career and will start visiting teams this week, including the Browns, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 5, 2018
Shields is visiting the Rams tomorrow, per a source. He will meet with the Browns later this week. https://t.co/h2JLCNOY05
— Michael Cohen (@Michael_Cohen13) March 5, 2018
Other teams in need of secondary help could emerge as contenders for Shields' services, but the early front-runners appear to be Cleveland and LA.
The Browns need all the help they can get across their roster, but especially on defense. They finished 19th against the pass in 2017 on their way to an 0-16 record, giving up the second most points in the NFL.
Meanwhile, the Rams are positioned to once again make a run at the playoffs with one of the youngest teams in the NFL. With the addition of Marcus Peters, adding Shields would provide depth at cornerback, something Los Angeles will need should Trumaine Johnson walk in free agency.
During his prime, Shields was one of the best cornerbacks in the game in Green Bay, helping the Packers win a Super Bowl during his rookie season. It will be interesting to see if another franchise takes a chance on him given his medical history and time away from the game. If he plays anywhere close to where did with the Packers, he'll be a big asset for whichever franchise signs him.
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