An AFC executive who spoke with Rob Reischel of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel mentioned that Packers impending free agent WR Randall Cobb could secure a similar contract to the one signed by his teammate Jordy Nelson if he reaches the open market.
However, the executive also said that he doesn’t see the Packers allowing Cobb to field offers from prospective teams.
“I would think he can get Jordy Nelson money if he hits the market,” one AFC executive said last week. “The only thing that hurts him and makes his deal a little trickier is he’s a slot guy…. and they don’t get what the guys on the outside get.
“But Cobb’s young (24) and he’s been highly productive. He’s getting to free agency at a great time. I can’t imagine the Packers will let it get that far, though.”
Green Bay signed Nelson to a four-year, $39.8 million, which included a signing bonus of $11.5 million.
The executive brings up a good point which is that NFL teams have been reluctant to pay slot receivers the same kind of money as guys who line up on the outside.
Because of this, many have suggested that Cobb could be in line for a similar deal to Giants WR Victor Cruz, who ultimately signed a six-year, $45.879 million contract with $15.625 million guaranteed.
Some have wondered if the Packers are even willing to pay another receiver big money now that they have already addressed Nelson’s contract. Although, Green Bay has placed a large emphasis on retaining their core players, so I would have to agree with the unnamed executive about them not allowing Cobb to depart.
Cobb, 24, finished out his four-year, $3,209,421 rookie contract and is clearly in position for a sizable raise this offseason.
In 2014, Cobb caught 91 passes for 1,287 yards receiving and 12 touchdowns. He also contributed as the team’s punt returner this year. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 9 wide receiver out of 110 qualifying players.
We have Cobb listed as the No. 11 player in our Top 50 Free Agents list.
Looking for the latest NFL Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow NFL Trade Rumors on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NFL News and Rumors for all 32 teams!
