Urgent Trades the Packers Should Consider Before the Deadline
Week 9 is shaping up to be a crucial game for the Green Bay Packers, especially with a divisional matchup against the Detroit Lions on the horizon. The status of starting quarterback Jordan Love is uncertain due to an injury, but at 6-2, the Packers still have reasons to be optimistic. Even if Love is sidelined for a game, the team is in a strong position.
While many fans believe the Packers have the necessary pieces for a successful season, there are still a couple of areas that could use enhancement before pursuing a deep playoff run. Fortunately, the NFL trade deadline is just days away.
With the deadline approaching next Tuesday, the Packers could benefit from improvements in their secondary and pass rush. If general manager Brian Gutekunst is serious about bolstering the team quickly, he should consider making a few impactful trades.
With Kayvon Thibodeaux currently injured, Azeez Ojulari has stepped up for the New York Giants recently. This season is particularly important for him as it’s a contract year. The 24-year-old has recorded 5.0 sacks over the last three games and has a total of 6.0 sacks this season while playing about 55% of the snaps. The Giants might be willing to trade him since he may not be part of their long-term plans. The Packers are in need of pass-rushing help, as no player on their roster has more than 3.0 sacks this season. If Ojulari joins Green Bay and hits at least 6.0 sacks by the end of the season, the fifth-round pick used for him could elevate to a fourth-round pick. This seems like a reasonable trade, especially if the Packers can negotiate a long-term deal with Ojulari. The Packers also require reinforcements in the secondary. Aside from Jaire Alexander, the cornerback position has lacked standout players. The Cleveland Browns might be looking to make changes after their recent victory over Baltimore, potentially making former first-round pick Greg Newsome available. Newsome’s ability to play both outside and in the slot would provide valuable versatility to the Packers’ defense. A conditional pick could be negotiated: if Newsome records two or more interceptions and the Packers reach the postseason, the pick would turn into a third-round selection. While this may seem steep, Newsome would be under contract for another year, making it a wise investment if he and Alexander can form a formidable duo. Lastly, the Packers could make a bold move for veteran cornerback and former All-Pro Marshon Lattimore from the New Orleans Saints. With the Saints facing cap issues, they may be looking to trade Lattimore rather than risk cutting him next offseason and saving around $11 million. Although the Saints have struggled recently, Lattimore has had an outstanding season, allowing no touchdowns and posting an opposing quarterback rating of just 69.1. Bringing in a player of his caliber would significantly enhance the Packers’ secondary.
By pursuing these trades, the Packers could solidify their roster and position themselves as strong contenders in the NFC North.
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