Report: Packers not expected to exercise Nick Perry's 5th-year contract option

With the deadline to pick up fifth-year contract options on 2012 first-round picks fast approaching, the Green Bay Packers have a decision to make on linebacker Nick Perry.

Though the move likely won't be made official until after this week's draft, the Packers are currently not expected to exercise the option on Perry's original rookie deal, according to Rob Demovsky of ESPN.

Perry has shown flashes of ability over the course of his three-year career thus far, tallying nine sacks in 32 games and 15 starts, but he hasn't yet earned himself a role that would justify the Packers paying the $7.75 million for the additional year.

Still just 25 years old, Perry would certainly be in line for a long-term contract if he were to put together a breakout season in 2015, but the Packers are evidently willing to let that process play out before making any further commitments.

With Clay Matthews and Julius Peppers set to hold down the starting spots at outside linebacker for the second consecutive season, Perry will have to make the most of his opportunities as a rotational pass rusher.