The Green Bay Packers have been actively trying to rejuvenate their offense over the last two seasons, and this strategy seems to be extending to their defense as well.
On October 23, ESPN’s Rob Demovsky reported that the team is exploring the possibility of trading edge rusher Preston Smith before the NFL’s trade deadline on November 5.
Demovsky noted that there are reports of the Packers shopping Smith, who at 31 is the second-oldest player on the team, while seeking a replacement to strengthen their pass rush. With a hefty salary of $12 million this season and $12.6 million next, Smith’s performance has declined, making him a potential release candidate after the season. Therefore, the Packers may be looking to trade him now to secure some value.
Jadeveon Clowney Possible Replacement for Preston Smith
Preston Smith, who is signed to a $52 million contract through 2026, has recorded only 2.5 sacks in eight games this season, a sharp decline from his previous seasons where he averaged between 8 and 9 sacks. His age, salary, and drop in performance suggest that the Packers may not receive significant compensation if they decide to trade him. However, dealing Smith for any draft pick in 2025 could benefit Green Bay by relieving them of his salary and making room for new edge rushers.
Rashan Gary recently signed a four-year, $96 million deal in October 2023 but has also struggled this season, managing only 2 sacks.
In the same report about Smith’s potential trade, ESPN’s Seth Walder identified Jadeveon Clowney of the Carolina Panthers as a possible target for Green Bay. He highlighted that the Packers rank 30th in pass rush win rate, with Gary and Smith positioned 39th and 43rd out of 50 edge rushers. While the Packers may want to rely more on first-round pick Lukas Van Ness, he would rank 47th if included in the same evaluation.
Clowney, also 31, is on a more affordable two-year deal worth $20 million and had a strong performance last season, achieving a top-five pass rush win rate and a career-high 9.5 sacks. With the Panthers sitting at 1-7 and potentially heading for the worst record in the league, players like Clowney, who may not fit into Carolina’s long-term plans, could be available at a reasonable price.
Packers Defense Outperforming Numbers Through Week 8
The Packers actually have a strong defense, currently leading the league with 19 turnovers through Week 8, which is four more than any other team.
However, their sack total of 21 does not align with the pass rush win rates of their top edge rushers. While edge pressure isn’t the only way to disrupt opposing quarterbacks, the Packers are expected to see some regression in their defensive performance as the season progresses.
To enhance their effectiveness in pressuring quarterbacks, Green Bay will need better production from its main pass rushers. This suggests that a move before the trade deadline is likely, potentially involving Smith being traded to another team for the remainder of the season.
