Packers “Unlikely” To Re-Sign TE Jermichael Finley?

According to Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, it’s “pretty unlikely” that the Packers will re-sign free agent TE Jermichael Finley this offseason.

Silverstein points to the fact that the Packers wouldn’t medically clear safety Nick Collins after he underwent a similar procedure to the one Finley had recently.

Finley, 26, figures to be one of the more intriguing unrestricted free agents to watch this offseason. He’s already made it known that he has no intention of taking a reduced salary, despite concerns regarding his future health.

The Packers don’t have a clear-cut replacement on their roster, although they are believed to be high on Brandon Bostick. Andrew Quarless filled in for Finley following his injury, but he too is prepared to test the open market.

It’s not often that quality young tight ends are available, but his fusion surgery will most likely be a concern that could force him to sign a one-year incentive based contract.

The Packers could have close to $30 million in available cap space depending on the final 2014 salary cap total that should be released in the coming weeks.

We have Finley tentatively listed as the No. 69 player in our Top 100 Free Agents list.