Free Agency 2013: Packers Sign Tight End Matthew Mulligan

Stop the presses, everyone. Ted Thompson and the Green Bay Packers just signed a free agent. Not only that, but this player was in the NFL, playing for a team other than the Packers last season. According to WCSH TV 6 of Portland, Maine, tight end Matthew Mulligan was signed to the Packers roster this weekend.

Mulligan, who is listed at 6'4" and 258 pounds, played collegiate ball at the University of Maine and was a member of the St. Louis Rams in 2012, where he started nine games at tight end. He had eight receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown last season. Before coming to St. Louis, Mulligan played for the New York Jets from 2009-2011 and started 11 of the 34 games he played in those three seasons.

WCSH had this to say about Mulligan's signing:

The five-year veteran agreed to a one-year deal with the Green Bay Packers. The tight end and special teamer also had an offer from the San Francisco 49ers, but opted for the "Pack" because of more guaranteed money. He'll join former Black Bear Jerron McMillain in Wisconsin.

This appears to be a low-cost solution to the loss of Tom Crabtree to Tampa Bay in free agency. Mulligan will likely be fighting for a roster spot with Ryan Taylor in training camp.

UPDATE: Turf Show Times was kind enough to give us a few quick thoughts on Mulligan.

Mulligan was the Rams second tight end by default last season. He is a very good run blocker, and that's where he saw most of his work in St. Louis last year. He did catch a few passes too, even scored a touchdown in Week 2.