Eric Wilson, a veteran linebacker and special teams contributor, is being brought back by the Green Bay Packers with a new contract.
Wilson has reportedly reached an agreement to rejoin the Packers as a player, per his most recent Instagram post. A screenshot of Wilson’s announcement was shared by a fan on X.
Wilson has played a key rotational role for the Packers since being signed off of the New Orleans Saints practice squad early in the 2022 season. While he hasn’t started a game for the Packers, Wilson has appeared in 30 games.
The veteran linebacker will most recently be remembered for his crucial fumble recovery on an explosive kickoff return from Keisean Nixon in the NFC divisional round loss to the San Francisco 49ers. The recovery allowed the Packers to retain possession after Nixon’s return brought Green Bay deep into 49ers territory.
Green Bay Still Needs Linebackers
Even after bringing back Wilson, the Packers still have a big need at off-ball linebacker.
With Jeff Hafley taking over as defensive coordinator, the Packers will be moving to a 4-3 base defense, adding an extra emphasis on linebackers. Green Bay is currently thin at that position, especially after releasing former All-Pro linebacker De’Vondre Campbell in order to save cap space.
Now that Campbell has signed a one-year deal with the 49ers, the Packers have just Wilson, Isaiah McDuffie, and former first-round pick Quay Walker as their off-ball linebackers with legitimate playing experience.
The Packers will likely continue to pursue additional depth at linebacker in the 2024 NFL Draft. General manager Brian Gutekunst has already tipped his hand that the team will have some interest at the position, bringing in Texas A&M prospect Edgerrin Cooper for a top-30 visit.
Cooper likely won’t be the only linebacker brought in for a top-30 visit, as Gutekunst will make sure to do his homework on the position.
