As the 2020 NFL season continues to draw closer, the Green Bay Packers have become one of the most intriguing teams to keep an eye on. Many don’t know what to expect from the green and gold after an impressive 2019 season.
During the 2019 season, the Packers finished the regular season with a 13-3 record and made a run to the NFC Championship Game. They ended up falling to the San Francisco 49ers in that game by a final score of 37-20. Now, the fans are hoping for more of the same, but the media seems to be expecting Green Bay to take a step backwards.
Aaron Rodgers has received a ton of criticism over the last few months. He has been called “washed up” and “no longer elite” by quite a few critics. Despite the doubts and hate he has received, Rodgers is entering the 2020 season with a massive chip on his shoulder due to the Packers’ decision to trade up in the first round for Utah State quarterback Jordan Love.
Green Bay had a relatively quiet offseason, especially on the offensive side of the football. They did sign wide receiver Devin Funchess and offensive tackle Rick Wagner, but losing Bryan Bulaga was a tough blow. Brian Gutekunst also signed linebacker Christian Kirksey.
All of that being said, there are still some holes that the Packers could be looking to fill. Should they choose to fill those holes via trade, there are five intriguing options that would make a lot of sense for the franchise.
5. Corey Davis, Wide Receiver, Tennessee Titans
Bringing up the rear is Titans’ wide receiver Corey Davis, who could add some nice ability for the Packers’ offense. He had a lackluster 2019 season with just 43 receptions for 601 yards and two touchdowns. Davis has yet to live up to the hype that came with him being the No. 5 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, but he would be worth a flier for the Packers.
Rodgers needs more help and so does Davante Adams. Davis might be a low-cost, high-reward type of trade if the Packers look to make a move at wide receiver.
4. David Njoku, Tight End, Cleveland Browns
Another intriguing offensive trade target for the Packers could be Browns’ tight end David Njoku. After signing Austin Hooper in free agency, Cleveland might be willing to pull the trigger on a trade involving Njoku.
Standing in at 6-foot-4 and nearly 250 pounds, Njoku is extremely athletic and would be a nice big weapon for Rodgers. Jace Sternberger is currently projected to be Green Bay’s starting tight end, but Njoku would be a solid pickup at the right price. It would be worth a late pick to bring the former Miami Hurricanes star on board.
3. Yannick Ngakoue, Defensive End, Jacksonville Jaguars
Granted, the Packers don’t “need” another pass rusher with both Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith on the roster. Green Bay even has second-year pass rusher Rashan Gary in the mix. However, a talent like Ngakoue is too good to pass up if they could swing a deal.
Ngakoue is coming off of a 2019 season that saw him rack up 41 total tackles, eight sacks, four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, one interception, a defensive touchdown, and six defended passes. Green Bay always seems to be looking to improve their defense. This trade is not terribly likely, but he is worth mentioning on the list of potential trade targets for the Packers.
2. O.J. Howard, Tight End, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
This is one of the most intriguing names that has been tossed around as a potential player on the trade block this offseason. After the Buccaneers made the move to bring in Tom Brady, they also acquired Rob Gronkowski via trade. With Gronkowski on the roster, as well as Cameron Brate, Howard could find himself available on the trade market.
Similarly to Njoku, Howard would be worth the risk for the Packers to bring in. He is extremely athletic and fast for a 6-foot-6 and 250-pound tight end. Rodgers would have fun working with him and he might be a perfect weapon for Matt LaFleur’s offense.
1. Kenny Stills, Wide Receiver, Houston Texans
Finally, the Packers would be smart to take a look at Texans’ wideout Kenny Stills. Green Bay needs more speed on offense and Stills would be able to bring that. Many believe that he could fill the kind of role that Randall Cobb had with the Packers for years.
Stills is likely available after Bill O’Brien brought in both Cobb and Brandin Cooks this offseason. Will Fuller is still a major weapon for Houston as well. Green Bay should pursue a trade for Stills to round out their offense and add more firepower for Rodgers.
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