Defensive lineman Ricky Jean Francois sounds just as surprised the Green Bay Packers signed him this offseason as we were.
Jean Francois is clearly well aware of the Packers’ reputation when it comes to free agency. He said he was surprised to get the call.
“To get that phone call that the Green Bay Packers want you is rare,” said Jean Francois. “It’s rare that you see them go outside and pick guys up and if they do, it’s for a reason.
“On the first day of meetings when all the new guys stand up, I’m used to seeing like five or six guys stand up and there were only three guys to stand up. I’m blessed to get picked up.’”
Jean Francois played for Washington the past two seasons. In 2016, he had 32 tackles and 1.5 sacks. He’s also had stints with Indianapolis and San Francisco.
His exit from Washington was an interesting one. Jean Francois was released after being publicly critical of management. There was speculation that he made the comments because he wanted out of a dysfunctional situation.
Jean Francois ultimately had to choose between the Seahawks and Packers. He said he chose Green Bay because of Aaron Rodgers.
It now looks like an important acquisition with the uncertain future of Letroy Guion. The Packers’ defensive line is young and Jean Francois will provide an important veteran presence and depth.
This could ultimately be one of the more important moves the Packers made this offseason.
