Green is a Free Agent

After seven years with the Packers, RB Ahman Green is officially a free agent. Despite weeks of negotiations, the two sides could apparently not come to terms. The Packers indicated they would like to have Green back. He is about 46 yards shy of becoming the Packers' all-time leading rusher, surpassing Jim Taylor's record. Green has indicated on numerous occasions that he'd like to remain a Packer for the rest of his career.

However, reports indicate that he is seeking a multi-year deal worth at least $5 million a year. He earned $2.75 million last year. It's hard to imagine that any team would hand out that kind of deal to a 30-year-old back with lots of mileage on him. We can only hope that he and his agent figure that out and that Green returns for another year. Because of his stated interest of remaining in Green Bay, it is likely that Green is testing the market to determine his value; he'll then bring that info back to the Pack to negotiate further.

Green may not be what he used to be. But coming back the way he did last year after what could have been a career-ending injury for some players indicates he still can be a productive player. But, it is also clear, whether or not Green returns, that the Packers need to find a possible starting back via the draft. Unfortunately, this is not a strong year for running backs. But there was a lot of talk coming out of the NFL combine last weekend that the Packers were eyeing Californian junior RB Marshawn Lynch who seems to be the type of back that would fit well into the Packers offensive scheme. He is also projected to possibly still be available at the #16 spot when the Pack get their pick. Oklahoma RB Adrian Peterson would also be a possibility, although he is projected to go before Lynch. Lynch was Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year, and was MVP of the Holiday Bowl.

Yes, it would be great to have Green back. Not only for his veteran presence and productivity, but also to help tutor a young back like Lynch. It's a goofy league out there, though, and it's just possible that someone might offer Green at least enough of a deal to make him leave Green Bay. But the bet here -- for what that's worth (i.e., not much) -- is that Green will be back.