Three Bold Trade Targets the Packers Should Pursue, but Probably Won’t
The Green Bay Packers have not won the Super Bowl in 14 years, and it’s becoming clear that they need to make some big money moves to bring the Lombardi Trophy back to Green Bay. The success of acquiring bonafide, established impact players like Xavier McKinney and Josh Jacobs last season proves how important these kinds of moves can be. Those players made an immediate difference and upgraded their respective positions. So, who are three players Brian Gutekunst should target in a trade but probably won’t?
Maxx Crosby
After the Packers' abysmal pass rush performance this year, which resembled an on-again, off-again relationship, there's a glaring need for a premier pass rusher, not a draft project to develop. While Jeff Hafley’s defense showed improvement this season, even posting a strong showing against the Super Bowl LVII Champions, it doesn’t mean Gutekunst should shy away from adding some key new pieces to the defense. If the Las Vegas Raiders decide to cut their losses and use the trade market to fill their many holes, this could be an opportunity for Green Bay. Gutekunst is no stranger to trading with the Raiders, and Maxx Crosby would be an immediate upgrade for the Packers.
Although Crosby hasn’t officially requested a trade, he’s reportedly open to a move, especially if it leads to a playoff contender where he might reunite with some familiar faces. As one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL, Crosby’s play speaks for itself: he gives 100% on every snap and relentlessly gives quarterbacks headaches. Since entering the NFL in 2019, Crosby has led the league with 105 tackles for loss. His availability could be a game-changer, and this move would be well worth it.
Denzel Ward
One might have expected another Browns player, who requested a trade not too long ago, to be here, but it’s safe to say that Myles Garrett landing in Green Bay is highly unlikely. He’s on the older side, and other teams might have better offers. While Denzel Ward has not officially requested a trade like his teammate, he could reconsider his future if the Browns decide to part ways with Garrett. With the Packers most likely moving on from Jaire Alexander, they’re in the market for a new star cornerback, and Ward may be seeking a team that offers more stability and has not had 40 quarterbacks start for them since 1999.
D.K. Metcalf
Josh Jacobs has made it clear that the Packers need a true number-one wide receiver, and he’s not wrong. This year, the young receiving corps struggled, especially with Christian Watson’s injury. The Packers might explore signing Tee Higgins, but if the price tag gets too high, they could be priced out. Instead, they should target a big, physical playmaker like D.K. Metcalf. The Packers could use someone who can stretch the field, win contested catches, and bring a much-needed element of toughness to the receiving room.
While these trade acquisitions are most likely scenarios that will never come to fruition, the reality for fans is that it’s no longer enough to simply win games or make the playoffs. Draft and develop is a solid strategy, but there’s a prime window right now with a talented young team still on rookie contracts. It’s time to stop settling for a good team and start building one whose play speaks for itself, not just its history. The Super Bowl drought is only getting drier, and at this point, it doesn’t matter who’s the best in the NFC North, none of them are winning Super Bowls.
