Packers Aim to Bolster Playoff Roster with Free Agent Additions

Two key defensive players top Green Bay's offseason wish list

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Green Bay Packers are looking to make a splash in free agency this offseason as they seek to improve their roster and get over the hump after two straight wild-card round playoff exits. According to NFL writer Greg Auman, the Packers are targeting two notable defensive players to help shore up their unit.

Why it matters

The Packers have been close to contending for a Super Bowl in recent years, but have fallen short in the postseason. Adding proven veterans on the defensive side of the ball could be the missing piece to help Green Bay take the next step and make a deep playoff run.

The details

Auman predicts the Packers will sign veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell, a four-time Pro Bowler, and re-sign linebacker Quay Walker, a rising young talent who has been a key part of their defense. Campbell, 39, would provide valuable experience and interior pass-rushing ability, while the 25-year-old Walker is coming off four straight 100-tackle seasons and could be in line for a sizable payday.

  • The Packers are roughly $1 million over the salary cap heading into the offseason, so they'll need to make some moves to clear space.

The players

Calais Campbell

A 39-year-old defensive tackle who has recorded at least 5 sacks in each of the last four seasons while playing for four different teams. He's a six-time Pro Bowler with 119 career sacks.

Quay Walker

A 25-year-old linebacker who has been a key part of the Packers' defense, recording over 100 tackles in each of his first four NFL seasons. He's also contributed 9 sacks and 29 tackles for loss.

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What they’re saying

“Campbell, 39, is ageless, now with four straight seasons of at least five sacks while playing for four different teams. He's a living legend, with 119 career sacks and six Pro Bowls. He made it to the Super Bowl as a rookie in 2008 with the Cardinals — 17 years ago — and how cool would it be if he signed on with a top contender and found his way back, turning 40 before the season starts in September? He signed for $5.5 million last year, and if a 40-year-old defensive lineman can make a case for a raise, Campbell can.”

— Greg Auman, NFL Writer (FOXSports.com)

“Walker, 25, does a bit of everything for Green Bay — four straight 100-tackle seasons, including 128 this past year, and he's active in the opposing backfield with nine career sacks and 29 tackles for loss. The Packers declined his fifth-year option, opting not to pay him $14.7 million in 2026, and he'll likely get about $10 million a year. Pro Football Focus doesn't think much of him, ranking him 76th among NFL linebackers, with his pass coverage skills bringing him down.”

— Greg Auman, NFL Writer (FOXSports.com)

What’s next

The Packers will need to clear some salary cap space in order to sign both Campbell and Walker, but if they can do so, the additions would significantly bolster their defensive unit heading into the 2026 season.

The takeaway

By targeting proven veterans like Calais Campbell and retaining young talent like Quay Walker, the Packers are making it clear they are committed to building a championship-caliber roster and taking another shot at the Super Bowl in the near future.