As thin as the Green Bay Packers are on the defensive line, it should never be forgotten that their priority in building a successful 3-4 defensive scheme is to find playmakers at the outside linebacker positions.
It is there where 3-4 teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers have stocked up on well-rounded athletes who can both rush the passer and drop into coverage.
To that end, the Packers are eyeing a couple of free agents who could offer instant help, the most notable being Dallas linebacker Kevin Burnett, a former second-round draft choice who will be entering his fifth season in 2009. Of all the remaining linebackers, Burnett might have the most potential because of his athleticism and untapped ability.
According to an NFL source, the Packers have strong interest in Burnett but have not set up a visit yet, possibly because the former University of Tennessee linebacker was in Oakland Tuesday and will be in San Diego Wednesday. Two other teams are interested in bringing in Burnett, but have not yet set up official visits.