Packers Could Cut Ties with $52M Veteran Starter Amid Trade Deadline Buzz, Insider Reports
The Green Bay Packers are enjoying a strong 5-2 start to the season, but that doesn’t mean every player is safe as the NFL trade deadline approaches. Even with a winning record, the Packers find themselves third in the NFC North, trailing the division-leading Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings. With the November 5 trade deadline looming, the Packers could be eyeing potential roster adjustments—both additions and subtractions—in their pursuit of a playoff push.
One player who may find himself on the trade block is veteran linebacker Preston Smith. Despite signing a four-year, $52 million extension before last season, Smith has seen a noticeable drop in production this year. ESPN Packers insider Rob Demovsky has reported that the team is considering moving Smith before the deadline, given his declining performance and hefty contract.
“There have already been some reports that the Packers are shopping Smith, the second-oldest player on the team at 31, and are looking to add someone at his position to boost the pass rush,” Demovsky noted. Smith’s salary is a significant factor—he’s owed $12 million this season and $12.6 million next year—making him a potential cap casualty after the season if no trade materializes.
Smith, 32, has been a mainstay in Green Bay’s defense for six years, recording 44 sacks in 86 starts. However, this season he’s only managed 2.5 sacks, and his pass-rushing efficiency has taken a hit. As the Packers look to bolster their roster for a playoff push, cutting ties with Smith could free up much-needed cap space to make a bold move.
While parting ways with a veteran player during a potential playoff run is never easy, the Packers may feel that trading Smith now—before a likely offseason release—could net them some value in return. It’s a delicate balance between maintaining depth for a postseason run and planning for the future, but the Packers’ decision could shape the course of their season as they look to catch the Lions and Vikings in the division race.
