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The Green Bay Packers are doing something unusual today: they are hosting a notable free agent late in training camp for a visit. The player is Ahmad Brooks, a 3-4 outside linebacker who has had a productive and steady career for the San Francisco 49ers.
Brooks has the potential to come in and help solidify the Packers’ depth concerns on the edge, which went up to eleven following injuries to both starters, Clay Matthews and Nick Perry, in last Saturday’s preseason game. As a starter for the past six years in San Francisco, Brooks has recorded between 6 and 8.5 sacks each season and has missed just five games.
However, Brooks also is dealing with a criminal case at present. He was charged with misdemeanor sexual battery in 2015 following an incident involving former 49ers teammate Ray McDonald. Brooks has plead not guilty to the charge and according to Matt Burrows of the Sacramento Bee, he has a court date on September 29th to set a trial date. According to David Fucillo of Niners Nation, this charge would carry a maximum sentence of 6 months in prison and/or a $2,000 fine.
All of this factors into the equation for the Packers today as they try to make a decision on whether to sign Brooks for the upcoming season. Here’s a look at Brooks’ circumstances and what signing him could mean for the team.
Ahmad Brooks, former Pro Bowl linebacker, released by 49ers | USA Today Sports
Here's a look at the circumstances of Brooks' release; the 49ers appeared to want to alleviate the $6.1 million cap hit Brooks would have cost, instead eating about a $2.4 million cap charge.
Ahmad Brooks signing would have domino effect on Packers' depth chart | Packersnews.com
Reggie Gilbert might be the player most affected by the potential signing, as he has appeared to earn a roster spot given the injuries at the position and his play so far. However, he knows nothing is guaranteed, and he'll need a good performance on Thursday to lock in a spot.
Packers looking for help (Ahmad Brooks, perhaps) at linebacker - ESPN
Jayrone Elliott has impressed Clay Matthews this season as the OLB3, but his back spasms have put him on the shelf for much of the past week.
Packers’ top camp battles to watch during final week | Packers Wire
Quarterback, receiver and cornerback are the top position battles to watch during the final week of training camp.
Christian Ringo putting it all on the line this summer | Packers.com
Meanwhile, Ringo is fighting with Brian Price, probably for one roster spot on the defensive line as the sixth man (with Montravius Adams assumed to be on the roster despite his injury).