Green Bay Packers Should Pursue Tight End Antonio Gates in 2016 NFL Free Agency

The Green Bay Packers have plenty of needs heading into the offseason this year. One name that they should pursue is tight end Antonio Gates, who is set to hit the open 2016 NFL free agency market.

Richard Rodgers stepped up in a big way throughout the 2015 NFL season this season. He had a few huge games, but for the most part proved that Green Bay could use an upgrade over him at the position. Gates would be a massive addition for the Packers' offense, although his price tag might be out of their range.

Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay offense struggled mightily this season. Jordy Nelson went down with a torn ACL ahead of the season and they never seemed to bounce back. Not having another consistently dependable target like Gates could have been was tough for the Packers.

Throughout the course of the 2015 season, Gates ended up recording solid statistics. He caught 56 passes for 630 yards and five touchdowns. Those numbers are without question capable of rising in an offense like the Packers could provide for him.

Green Bay is without question in need of being aggressive on the free agency market this offseason.

Mike McCarthy is reportedly not happy with general manager Ted Thompson for his approach to the offseason. Other reports have completely refuted those rumors. Whether McCarthy is upset or not, Thompson cannot afford to sit back and stand pat if the Packers do want to win a Super Bowl in 2016.

There is no denying that the Packers have a very talented team, but adding more playmakers is a must. Gates is a veteran leader that would help bring consistency and playmaking potential to the offense. He may not be as dominant as he once was, but a change of scenery and playing with a quarterback like Rodgers could help him get back closer to that level.

San Diego is going to do everything they can to re-sign Gates, but he may consider other offers. Green Bay has to figure out a way to make a competitive offer and see if they can bring him on board.

Expect to hear plenty of Packers rumors this offseason, but hopefully they take a serious look at signing Gates.