https://www.packers.com/news/packers-have-improvement-in-mind-coming-out-of-bye-week
Green Bay finds itself at 2-4 after a recent loss to the Denver Broncos, struggling to gain traction in the 2023 NFL season. The team’s youth is evident, with rookie quarterback Jordan Love at the helm and a predominantly youthful offensive lineup featuring rookie and second-year wide receivers, complemented by rookie tight end Luke Musgrave.
Key offensive weapon Aaron Jones has been plagued by a hamstring injury, limiting his contributions to just three games this season. In his absence, the offense has struggled to find its rhythm.
The Packers’ defense, despite its talent, has struggled due to scrutiny of defensive coordinator Joe Barry’s play-calling, heightened after Troy Aikman’s criticism in Week 5. Injuries, including those to key players like De’Vondre Campbell and Jaire Alexander, have further hindered the unit’s performance.
The Packers, still a young and developing team, have the option to make a move to support their youthful roster or trade a veteran player for valuable draft capital. Here are four potential trade candidates before the 2023 NFL trade deadline:
- Preston Smith: The talented pass rusher, now in his fourth year with the Packers, could provide valuable returns in a trade. Given the scarcity of pass rushers on the market at the deadline, Green Bay may capitalize on his trade value, opening up opportunities for rookie Lukas Van Ness and potentially securing draft capital.
- Terrace Marshall Jr. (Carolina Panthers): The Packers are reportedly exploring the wide receiver market, with Marshall Jr. as an intriguing prospect. Marshall Jr., a 2021 second-round pick, is seeking a trade from the Carolina Panthers due to low usage in their offense. Acquiring Marshall Jr. could be a low-risk, high-reward move for Green Bay.
- Courtland Sutton (Denver Broncos): With the Broncos potentially looking to sell at the deadline, the physical receiver Sutton, standing at six-foot-four, is a trade rumor candidate. His veteran presence would bolster Green Bay’s wide receiver corps and provide a reliable target for Jordan Love, aiding the team’s offensive consistency.
- Jerry Jeudy (Denver Broncos): Another Broncos receiver in trade rumors, Jeudy, a former first-round pick, has yet to reach his full potential due to Denver’s offensive struggles. Adding Jeudy, an excellent route-runner, to the Packers’ roster could give Jordan Love an additional weapon and a more experienced receiving option.
While the Packers aren’t known for making many trades, these potential moves could be worth monitoring as they navigate a challenging 2023 season.”