Jermichael Finley has vowed that he would play again in the NFL after a career-threatening neck injury cut his 2013 season short. The tight end underwent spinal fusion surgery and has been recovering in the offseason. Currently a free agent, Finley has been sitting on the market with only a mild amount of interest. As the NFL Draft draws closer, could Finley actually find himself back in Green Bay?
Interest has been low around the tight end because of the visits he has taken, he has failed every physical. Finley has negotiated deals with both the Seattle Seahawks and the New York Giants, but failed both physicals due to his continuing neck surgery rehab. Still hopeful of playing again, Packers head coach Mike McCarthy confirms interest in bringing Finley back.
According to Jamey Eisenberg of CBSSports.com, McCarthy is interested in re-signing Finley considering the team has made little moves at the position.
"Absolutely," McCarthy said. via Eisenberg of CBS Sports. "Jermichael, he's going through a medical situation. He had a serious injury. I mean, there's a lot of excitement, based on what I'm told. I haven't seen him work out or anything like that, but I guess his workouts have gone very well. He's in great shape. I know he feels good, but the reality is this injury is going to take some time and we'll continue to watch it."
Finley is the best free agent available at the tight end position and if the Packers are hesitant to draft a rookie for the spot, the seven year veteran is the best to sign. Owen Daniels could have been an option after getting released by the Houston Texans. However, the Baltimore Ravens signed him earlier in the week. The New York Giants claimed they were still interested in the tight end, but they opted to sign Kellen Davis after both Brandon Myers and Bear Pascoe departed.
The Seattle Seahawks are still an option for Finley, but it all rests on the tight end being medically cleared. There is no guarantee that Finley will be allowed to play this upcoming season. Quarterback Peyton Manning underwent a very similar neck surgery and was forced to sit out an entire season. The Packers could give him a good faith contract, but it is all up in the air.