Green Bay Packers cornerback Casey Hayward is set to test the open market in the next month, as per latest reports.
In a text message to ESPN's Rob Demovsky, Hayward wrote that they normally waited until closer to the deadline, adding that they shall see. "I'll probably hit the market," he wrote.
According to ESPN, Hayward confirmed that he had hired a new agent, David Mulugheta, who represents Packers defensive backs HaHa Clinton-Dix and Quinten Rollins, to negotiate his next agreement. He added that he had not received any feedback or information about a new deal from the Packers.
Hayward has a high chance to play for another team in 2016, according to NFL Trade Rumors. As per the publication, it is possible, even though the Packers do not usually let their players leave in free agency, with emphasis to young cornerbacks who will be engaging to the peak of his professional sports career.
Previously, Hayward said that one just never knew, adding that they had gotten some young guys, whom they wanted to play regardless of he was there or not. He also mentioned that the only thing he could control was what he controlled, and that had been his play for the year. "We'll see how it goes," he added.
As per the publication, Hayward had been taken in the second round of the 2012 NFL draft and had played out his four-year $3 million rookie contract. It is assumed that he would be one of the best cornerbacks in free agency.
According to Headlines and Global News, the Packers had spent two high selections in the 2015 NFL Draft, with Damarious Randall at the conclusion of the first round and Quinten Rollins at the end of the second round. As per the publication, Hayward will have no space on the back end with the two teammates having their places next season.
While Hayward did not have an interception in 2015, he has contributed to the Packers' success in the league by defending the slot, which is viewed as an "extremely valuable" skillset in a league walked by elite passing offenses. Tramon Williams and Davon House reportedly cashed in on the open market when they left the Packers last season and no other player was as catchy as Hayward is at present.
Regarding age, Hayward is younger than Williams, who set a three-year $21 million agreement with the Cleveland Browns. Also, the cornerback has more experience than House reportedly when he signed a four-year $24.5 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
With this detail, it is possible for the cornerback to stick with the Packers.
With Mike McCarthy as head coach, the Green Bay Packers roster includes quarterback Aaron Rodgers, running back James Starks and Eddie Lacy, linebacker Clay Matthews III and Jake Ryan, tight end Richard Rodgers, wide receiver Ty Montgomery, Davante Adams, Jordy Nelson, James Jones, Jared Abbrederis, Randall Cobb, and Jeff Janis, safety Clinton-Dix, defensive end Julius Peppers, and place kicker Mason Crosby, among others.
