Speculation about Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb and his looming free agency has been all over the place. At first, it was reported that the Packers were not prioritizing Cobb in free agency. Then, the team quickly refuted that report and maintained that re-signing Cobb was its top goal this offseason.
Regardless of where the Packers stand, one thing is for sure: Cobb is a valuable commodity, especially if he is allowed to hit the open market on March 10. Young and talented wide receivers like him just don't come around too often. That's why Green Bay will have some stiff competition to retain his services.
"With Dez Bryant and Demaryius Thomas franchised, Cobb should be the most sought-after wide receiver on the market," ESPN NFL Insider Matt Williamson wrote. "At only 24 years old, Cobb already has a fine NFL resume and is a highly versatile player. His detractors will say his production mostly comes from an ideal environment and optimal quarterback situation in Green Bay - and there could be some truth to that - but there is no argument that he would be a massive upgrade for teams like the Raiders and Browns, both of which are devoid of wide receiver talent heading into free agency. The Chiefs are another team that desperately needs a player like Cobb, but they are not listed here because of their current financial quandary."
The Raiders had been rumored as a potential landing spot for Cobb previously. With $55 million in salary cap space and a mandate to reach the minimum salary floor required by the NFL, it's not a surprise to see why. Oakland wants to surround second-year quarterback Derek Carr with talented wide receivers to aid his development. Cobb would do just that.
Cleveland is also hurting for wide receiver help. Josh Gordon will miss the entire 2015 season due to an alcohol related suspension. The team's No. 2 wide receiver, Andrew Hawkins, had a nice season last year but is not considered a consistent threat.
"Cobb may never score 12 touchdowns in a season gain outside of Green Bay, but he would be a huge addition to the teams listed above," Williamson wrote. "The Packers would love to keep him, but have prepared for this day by using thee draft picks last year on wide receivers, including second-rounder Davante Adams, who came on in the postseason. Cobb is an exceptional complementary piece in any offense, but not a true No. 1 wideout. His addition alone will not cure an ailing passing game. Jeremy Maclin or Torrey Smith may end up being a consolation prize for Oakland or Cleveland."
