A.J. Hawk was frequently replaced at inside linebacker on passing downs by Brandon Chillar last season. Chillar signed a four-year, $21 million extension in December. If the Packers approach Hawk about a pay cut, he almost certainly would refuse and take his chances on the open market. Hawk?s agent, Mike McCartney, on Monday said he?s spoken with Packers officials this offseason and the team has decided it?s better off paying the premium for quality depth. ?They?re not going to ask (for a pay cut),? McCartney said. ?They think A.J. is a very important part of their football team. I have full confidence that A.J. is going to have a big year next year, and I think they have the same kind of confidence.? Hawk?s 2010 salary is $4.1 million after he reached playing-time escalators earlier in his career, and he?s also due a $500,000 workout bonus.