Finley Signs 2-year Deal Worth $15 Million

That's right, JerMichael Finley, whom nearly everyone expected to be branded with a franchise tag this offseason has reached an agreement with the Packers that will keep him on the roster through the 2013 season. This is a smart deal for both the Packers and for Finley. It's not enough money to break the bank or the cap, but is enough to appease Finley to where he wouldn't have been able to find more money elsewhere. This gives the Packers 2 years to decide whether Finley is worth a big contract going into the 2014 season. It also gives them a 2 year buffer to determine whether he will develop into the elite Tight End that his potential has suggested. This does raise other questions now, however...

The Packers still have a franchise tag to use. The two marquee free agents left on the checklist are Center Scott Wells and backup QB Matt Flynn. While Wells was a pro bowler this year, it appears unlikely that the Packers will be willing to shell out $10 million to keep him around for another season. It's more likely that Thompson will be able to strike a deal with him prior to free agency in 3 weeks.

Flynn is a more intriguing option. The franchise tag for quarterbacks is estimated to be $14 million for 2012. That's a high price for a backup QB...especially when your starter and league MVP is due $8 million. So, the only reason to tag Flynn would be if Ted Thompson is confident that he can find a team willing to trade for him and restructure his contract. It all sounds well and good, but there are risks.

I've said for months now that I thought Flynn would land in Miami, and with Philbin as their new coach, it sure seems like I knew what I was talking about. I wouldn't be surprised if the dolphins would be willing to part with a 2nd round draft pick for a potential franchise QB, but the wrench in the cogs of this idea is that Peyton Manning is likely going to be a free agent by March 8th and Miami has expressed interest in him. I find it highly unlikely that they would be willing to trade for Flynn and sign Manning. So I believe it will be either/or. Obviously, I'd like to see the Packers get more than a compensatory pick in the 2013 draft for Flynn. But I'd rather see him walk than end up with him on the payroll in 2012 and be hamstrung by it. Stay tuned for updates...GO PACK!