Packers re-sign linebacker Justin Hollins to one-year deal

GREEN BAY - The Green Bay Packers returned some depth to their pass rush on Thursday, re-signing outside linebacker Justin Hollins. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst announced the news on Thursday. Hollins will return to the club on a one-year deal.

Hollins first joined the Packers mid-way through the 2022 season, after being claimed on waivers from the Los Angeles Rams. Hollins, who had previously played under Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry when both were in Los Angeles, was able to slide right into the defense and provide veteran experience after Rashan Gary was lost for the season to an ACL tear. A sixth-year backer, Hollins provided depth in a unit behind Preston Smith, that was also supplemented by Kingsley Enagbare and Jonathan Garvin.

The Packers will likely be without Gary to begin the 2023 season. The pass-rusher tore his ACL during a Week 9 loss to the Detroit Lions last November.

Hollins finished his six games played with the Packers with nine tackles (including three for a loss), 2.5 sacks, four quarterback hits, a quarterback hurry and a pressure.

Hollins was originally selected by the Denver Broncos in the fifth round (No. 156 overall) of the 2019 NFL draft. Over the course of four seasons, he accumulated 101 tackles (60 solo), 9.5 sacks, nine tackles for a loss, 15 quarterback hits, three passes defensed, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. He also added five tackles on special teams. During that time, Hollins has also played in six playoff games, all with the Rams, recording eight tackles (five solo) and two quarterback hits.