Free Agent Needs by Division- NFC North
Dorian “The Trashman” Colbert, Rosterwatch.com

NFC North

Chicago Bears: With outside linebacker Nick Roach most likely lost to Free Agency, the Bears will need a solid replacement. Look for them to acquire hot FA Paul Kruger or Darryl Smith, who played well for Bears defensive coordinator Mel Tucker in Jacksonville before losing last season to a groin injury. Also, QB Jay Cutler will need some more help at the wide receiver position—although we LOVE Alshon Jeffery at RW—and Wes Welker would be the ideal addition to the fold. He should be picked up at a reasonable price, as he’s 32 and not highly valued by his own Patriots team.

Detroit Lions: The Lions have glaring needs at the defensive end and guard positions. For one of the end spots, William Haynes, a former player under Lions coach Jim Schwartz when he was in Tennessee, would fit nicely. At guard, someone like Andy Levitre or Louis Vasquez would be the best options from a loaded guard FA list. DB Chris Houston is a priority for Detroit, even if they won’t admit it, and they will most likely re-sign him after addressing those first two positions. Also, don’t be surprised if the Lions pick up a new running back like Reggie Bush, as an affordable boost to their backfield. His ability to produce in the passing game would be a perfect fit for the Lions.

Green-Bay Packers: It’s obvious to virtually anyone that Green-Bay needs help all over the defensive side of the ball. Expect them to re-sign Clay Matthews and restructure A.J. Hawk’s contract. Hawk is set to count $7 million against the Packers salary cap, and they would save a bunch by simply cutting him. He’ll get re-signed at a much lower price. Look for the Pack to pick up a good run stuffing end like Glen Dorsey as well. On the offensive side, I don’t expect them to keep Greg Jennings, as they’d be looking at a $10 million-plus franchise tag for the solid but replaceable receiver. Aaron Rodgers will be extended though, of course, with an affordable 9.75 million cap number.

Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings are aching at wide receiver, and Percy Harvin, even if he does sign, won’t cut it by himself. They need another big play guy on the outside in the form of Dwayne Bowe, Greg Jennings, or Mike Wallace. They will need to restructure a few deals in order to go after one of those names, namely DT Kevin Williams who is on the other side of All-Pro form at 33. If that doesn’t happen, look for them to perhaps sign WR Brian Hartline in a less expensive deal. His 15 yd yards per catch average would help stretch the field immensely.