The Green Bay Packers' bye week is over, which means it's time to slam on the gas pedal.
Following the Detroit Lions' win on Sunday night, the Packers are two games back of first place in the NFC North, but at 6-3, they're in solid shape for a Wild Card berth. The NFC is a tough conference this season, though, so the Packers cannot afford to coast in the second half.
The Packers recently traded defensive end Preston Smith at his behest, which left the Green Bay front seven a bit shorthanded. The trade deadline has passed, but in order to shore up that weakness, the Packers could look to the veteran pool of free agents who have yet to sign anywhere this year.
One three-time Pro Bowler could fit the bill. Bleacher Report's NFL Scouting Department urged the Packers to sign 35-year-old Melvin Ingram to a midseason deal on Monday.
"The Packers granted Smith's trade request as he wasn't a good scheme fit in Jeff Hafley's system. But that does leave the defense thin at edge rusher. Green Bay needed help at the position before the trade," Kelly said.
"Adding a veteran like Ingram as a sub-package rusher wouldn't be a bad idea to help make a playoff push. He logged six sacks in that role for the Dolphins two years ago."
Ingram only played three games for the Dolphins in 2023 after they re-signed him to their practice squad in December. He logged 1.5 sacks in those three games and also appeared in Miami's playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Signing free agents midseason is a desperation strategy in some sports, but NFL teams can often find success if they find the right veterans to meet their needs. As long as Ingram has been keeping in shape, he should be fresh enough to produce results for Green Bay down the stretch.
