The Green Bay Packers are having a strong season, but that doesn’t mean everyone on the team is safe in their jobs.
Even though the Packers have a record of 5-2, there are still changes that could happen before the trade deadline. Being in third place in their own division indicates that the team has more work to do before they can claim to be favorites for the conference title.
While they might add players at the trade deadline, the Packers could also look to let some go to save money. This would give them more resources to make bold moves in an effort to catch up with the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings at the top of the NFC North.
One player who could be let go is veteran Preston Smith, who has not performed well in his second season of a four-year, $52 million extension. ESPN Packers insider Rob Demovsky mentioned Smith as a possible trade candidate ahead of the November 5 deadline.
“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 said.
“Smith has a big salary ($12 million this season, $12.6 million next), and his production has dropped. He seems like a candidate to be released after the season, so perhaps the Packers can get something for him now.”
Smith, who is 32, has started 86 games for the Packers over the last six years and has achieved 44 sacks. However, he has only managed 2.5 sacks this season, and his pass rush win rates and other efficiency stats have significantly decreased.
Letting go of Smith could help the Packers create cap space, especially if they plan to cut him as Demovsky suggests. However, it can be tough to part with players during a playoff push, so it’s not guaranteed that Green Bay will make the move.
