NFL: Packers Sam Shields- Elite Ballhawk on the Rise

by Chad Jones

Sam Shields becoming elite. Photo credit NFL 

Agent Drew Rosenhaus meet with Packers General Manager Ted Thompson Monday, and the day concluded with client Sam Shields signing his Restricted Free Agent Tender. Slated to earn $ 2.023 Million in 2013, Shields is an extension candidate whose best football lies ahead. Quintessential late bloomer, the 25 year old converted from wide receiver during his Senior season at Miami. Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2010, Shields paid immediate dividends, and his development was faster than even the Packers anticipated. 


As the Nickel corner in 2010, Shields intercepted two passes in the regular season, and 2 more in the NFC Championship game. Gaining a more prominent role in 2011, Shields continued to excel in the Nickel & started 3 games down the stretch. 

With Charles Woodson transitioning to safety, Shields became the Packers starter opposite inconsistent Tramon Williams. Shields played 10 games in 2012, intercepting 3 passes, excelling on the boundary in Dom Capers' system. In the playoffs, Shields again intercepted two passes, with the notable one being the TD return at San Francisco.  

Shields' hurdle to landing a longterm deal is durability, but when healthy he's an elite ballhawk. For a defense that can't stop a nose bleed, generating turnovers is a highly desirable commodity. 

Shields could be a candidate for the Franchise Tag next offseason, but more logically tests Free Agency & commands a major deal. Allowing Shields to depart is a concession Ted Thompson could make given commitments made to Aaron Rodgers & Clay Matthews III, respectively. The other option would be cutting Tramon Williams in the final year of his deal, and applying the $ 7.5 million of savings to retain Shields longterm. The Shields dynamic also ties into B.J. Raji's next contract, and how the team prioritizes Raji longterm in their budget. 

Shields will be testing the market at 26, with league GMs believing his best football is ahead. The Packers had an opportunity to broker an extension prior to Free Agency, but it's safe to assume Rosenhaus & Thompson were far apart on terms of the compensation. Look for Shields to deliver a strong year at Corner, and be one of the most sought after FAs next offseason.