Oct 16, 2022; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur reacts to a call during the fourth quarter against the New York Jets at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
The Green Bay Packers have a need on defense. Jeff Hafley and company could use more pass rushing.
Early on in NFL free agency, it was expected that the Packers would pursue a top name. However, Brian Gutekunst and the front office have played it much less aggressive than anticipate. Only two key signings have been made, with offensive lineman Aaron Banks and cornerback Nate Hobbs being those two players.
Looking at the current market, there are still a couple of intriguing options available.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has suggested Preston Smith as a potential option for the Packers. Of course, the team traded him away to the Pittsburgh Steelers before the deadline last year.
“The Green Bay Packers traded pass-rusher Preston Smith to the Steelers at last year’s deadline, but they should consider bringing him back now,” he wrote.
“While the Packers recorded 45 sacks as a team last season, Rashan Gary was the only Green Bay defender to record more than five. Smith logged 4.5 sacks with the Packers and Steelers last season and reached eight sacks in each of the previous three seasons.”
Smith played nine games with the team last year. He recorded 19 tackles and 2.5 sacks before playing eight games with the Steelers and compiling 13 more tackles and two more sacks.
Even though Green Bay traded him last year, a reunion could make sense. Smith hasn’t landed with a team this offseason and he is familiar with the team’s defensive scheme.
It may not be “likely” that Green Bay will sign Smith, but the move could make a lot of sense for both parties.
With that in mind, Green Bay is being urged to reunite with a 70-sack pass rusher who has already made a big impact on the team in the past.
