I don't really think the Packers have a choice in 2017 with Clay's contract, but realize it is a situation where you are going on tilt with hoping that he will get healthy and return to double digit sack numbers.

If Thompson actually goes after free agents to repair this defense then I would say the cutting Matthews is a worth it, but if he is just doing it as a cost measure and continues plug holes only through the draft then the Packers should keep paying Matthews.