Yesterday, the Packers signed Aaron Banks and Nate Hobbs on the first day of free agency. Packers fans were waiting on pins and needles to see if the team would acquire some of the flashier names.
Nonetheless, they didn’t end up landing either Davante Adams or DK Metcalf. Adams went to the Rams, while Metcalf will be a Steeler. Some other fan favorites included Dayo Obeyingbo to the Bears and DJ Reed to the Lions.
We live in an age of instant analysis and reaction. However, I want to look at these signings without my immediate emotion and explain these signings in detail. Aaron Banks and Nate Hobbs do make the Packers better than they were yesterday. These additions do not mean the Packers are done with free agency pickups as well.
Aaron Banks: The Packers New Left Guard
The first signing of the day was San Francisco 49ers Offensive Guard, Aaron Banks. Many were surprised at this signing, as the Packers usually bolster the offensive line through the draft. The Packers boast a rich history of drafting and developing some of the best offensive line play in the league.
Brian Gutekunst has emphasized a sense of urgency and a desire to start competing for championships. So, the question is, how does this help the Packers win right now? The answer for me is pretty obvious, Banks will play immediately. While the Packers offensive front was solid most of the season, when Elgton Jenkins went down in the playoffs, the need for help on the line became glaring.
Banks offers experience where the Packers prioritize the importance of the offensive line. While this isn’t the flashiest signing, and the contract looks massive, Banks will only be guaranteed a signing bonus. This makes it a pretty low risk signing overall and offers help right away. This signing also gives flexibility to move Elgton Jenkins to center, with Josh Myers most likely out.
Nate Hobbs: The Packers new Corner
The second signing of the day was Las Vegas Raiders Cornerback, Nate Hobbs. This signing seemed to be more well received by the fans. Cornerback is going to need addressed as it pretty clear that Jaire Alexander will be playing elsewhere.
Hobbs is primarily a slot corner, and he is a solid addition to the cornerback room. I would not be surprised if the goal is to put him on the outside with Keisean Nixon. Hobbs provides depth and steadiness. He is not the most explosive, however, he is efficient and consistent. The addition of Hobbs also reunites him with former Raiders teammates, Keisean Nixon and Josh Jacobs, and coach Rich Bisaccia.
This signing is also a potential day one starter, fueling the Packers goals of winning now. While both free agent additions do not look like a huge swing, it is important to view this through both the short- and long-term lenses.
Some of the biggest free agent signings every season do not pan out. There are always sneaky under the radar additions that can make the biggest impact. Gutekunst has been successful with big swings and under the radar signings, respectfully. The most successful include Josh Jacobs, Xavier McKinney, Zadarius Smith, Preston Smith, Adrian Amos, and Billy Turner.
While Banks and Hobbs do not necessarily have me jumping out of my seat, I am anxious to see what they can bring to the table. I still hope the Packers address the pass rush, especially with Trey Hendrickson seeking a trade. Nonetheless, it was a busy first day of free agency with potentially more moves on the horizon.
The post The Packers Add Aaron Banks and Nate Hobbs in Free Agency first appeared on PackersTalk.com Blog Posts and Podcasts.