Although Brian Gutekunst has never traded for a former Wisconsin Badger, that could all change this offseason, when free agency begins. However, that could change this year if they pursue Tyler Biadasz.
After making splash moves in free agency last season, many Packers fans expect a relatively quiet free agency from GM Brian Gutekunst. With the underwhelming play from last year’s free-agent class of Nate Hobbs and Aaron Banks, it’s fair to expect Gutekunst to lay low and focus on maintaining cap space in the offseason.
However, with Elgton Jenkins’ likely departure and the expiring rookie contracts of Sean Rhyan and Rasheed Walker, the offensive line is yet again near the top of Gutekunst’s to-do list. Assuming Green Bay retains Banks because of what they’ve invested in him, cap space will be a looming issue for the Packers. They are $6.4 million over the cap, which ranks 23rd in the league.
That all but counts out the excellent Tyler Linderbaum, who surprisingly will hit free agency after four consistently great seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. He’ll command anywhere from $17 to $25 million a year based on similar contracts, which the Packers can’t afford, given their cap situation.
Enter Tyler Biadasz, a Wisconsin native who played on the Badgers from 2016 to 2019. Biadasz spent his rookie contract with the Dallas Cowboys before being released and picked up by the Washington Commanders. Washington released Biadasz on February 26 of this year after being paid only $9 million last season.
Many questions remain as to why Biadasz was released, with theories circulating about a possible injury setback. Either way, Biadasz will be a much cheaper option than Linderbaum, with a contract valuation of around $10 million per year.
Gutekunst can fit that under the cap. He has shifted contracts despite past cap troubles to make room for free-agent acquisitions, such as signing the relatively cheap veterans Christian Kirksey and Rick Wagner in 2020.
Now that the offseason is in full swing, signing Biadasz would take pressure off drafting a lineman, shifting the focus almost exclusively to defense. A proven, 28-year-old starting center would bring the much-needed physicality and intensity to the trenches.
Per PFF, Biadasz was ranked 11th out of 40 centers last season and allowed a mere three sacks. He has arguably more proven success than the former free-agent Aaron Banks, who Green Bay pays nearly $20 million per year.
After earning a Pro Bowl bid in 2022, Biadasz has taken a slight step back. Still, he would be a great addition, especially considering the threat of a division rival like the Detroit Lions trying to sign him. The Chicago Bears have also reportedly visited with Biadasz after their starting center, Drew Dalman, announced his premature retirement.
It makes even more sense when looking back to Green Bay’s below-average center performance last season, with Elgton Jenkins and Sean Rhyan looking less than comfortable — and at times vulnerable — in both pass and run protection.
Jenkins is a cap casualty, and the Packers are expected to release him, along with Rashan Gary. That could allow the Packers to sign a relatively cheap yet impactful free agent on the offensive line. If Green Bay wants Biadasz, they’ll have to move quickly once free agency begins on March 11.