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Three Packers Players Who Could Be Traded Before the Roster Cutdown Deadline

As the NFL season approaches, the Green Bay Packers, like all teams, face the challenging task of finalizing their roster. With the roster cutdown deadline looming, the Packers must trim their roster to 53 players, leading to tough decisions regarding which players to keep, release, or potentially trade. As the Packers navigate this critical period, several players have emerged as possible trade candidates, either due to their current roster status, potential value to other teams, or the depth at their positions within Green Bay. Here’s a look at three Packers players who could be on the move before the roster cutdown deadline.

1. **AJ Dillon – Running Back**

AJ Dillon has been a reliable and powerful presence in the Packers’ backfield since being drafted in the second round in 2020. Known for his bruising running style and ability to gain tough yards, Dillon has provided the Packers with a solid one-two punch alongside Aaron Jones. However, with the emergence of younger running backs in training camp and the potential to secure valuable draft capital, Dillon could become an appealing trade asset for the Packers.

**Why Dillon Could Be Traded:**

The Packers have significant depth at the running back position, with Aaron Jones still performing at a high level and younger players like Patrick Taylor and Tyler Goodson showing promise. Additionally, Dillon is entering the final year of his rookie contract, which could make him more appealing to teams looking for a short-term solution at running back. Trading Dillon could help the Packers address other areas of need on their roster, such as bolstering their offensive line or acquiring additional draft picks for the future.

**Potential Suitors:**

Teams in need of a power running back or looking to improve their red-zone efficiency could be interested in Dillon. The Buffalo Bills, for example, might be a team to watch, as they seek to balance their high-powered passing attack with a more consistent ground game. The Baltimore Ravens, who value physicality in their running backs, could also be a potential landing spot for Dillon.

2. **Preston Smith – Outside Linebacker**

Preston Smith has been a key contributor to the Packers’ defense since signing with the team in 2019. His ability to rush the passer and set the edge in the run game has made him a valuable asset for the Packers’ defensive front. However, with the development of younger pass rushers like Rashan Gary and Kingsley Enagbare, as well as Smith’s contract situation, the Packers might consider moving on from the veteran linebacker.

**Why Smith Could Be Traded:**

Smith carries a substantial cap hit, and with the Packers needing to manage their salary cap carefully, trading him could provide some financial relief. Additionally, the Packers have invested heavily in developing young talent at the outside linebacker position, which could make Smith expendable if the team believes that Gary and Enagbare are ready to take on larger roles. By trading Smith, the Packers could free up cap space and potentially acquire draft capital to continue building for the future.

**Potential Suitors:**

Teams in need of a proven pass rusher could be interested in Smith, especially those with playoff aspirations looking to bolster their defense. The Dallas Cowboys, who have been aggressive in adding talent to their defense in recent years, could be a team to watch. The Tennessee Titans, who value strong defensive play, might also be interested in Smith’s services as they look to improve their pass rush.

3. **Josiah Deguara – Tight End/Fullback**

Josiah Deguara was drafted by the Packers in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft with the intention of using him as a versatile H-back in Matt LaFleur’s offense. While Deguara has shown flashes of his potential, injuries and inconsistent play have limited his impact. With the Packers drafting tight ends Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft in 2023, Deguara’s role on the team could be diminishing, making him a potential trade candidate.

**Why Deguara Could Be Traded:**

The Packers’ decision to draft two tight ends in 2023 suggests they are looking to retool the position and possibly move on from Deguara. With Musgrave and Kraft likely to take on significant roles in the offense, Deguara could find himself as the odd man out. Trading Deguara would give the Packers an opportunity to recoup some value for a player who may not fit into their long-term plans, while also allowing him to find a more prominent role on another team.

**Potential Suitors:**

Teams that utilize an H-back or are looking for a versatile tight end could be interested in Deguara. The San Francisco 49ers, who value versatility in their offensive scheme, could be a potential landing spot. The New England Patriots, known for utilizing multiple tight ends and creative offensive formations, might also be interested in adding Deguara to their roster.

**The Impact of Potential Trades**

While trading any of these players would have implications for the Packers’ roster, the potential returns could help the team in both the short and long term. By acquiring additional draft picks or players who fit specific needs, the Packers can continue to build a roster capable of competing in the NFC North and beyond. Additionally, freeing up salary cap space by moving veterans like Preston Smith could provide the Packers with more flexibility to address other areas of the team, whether through free agency or future trades.

For the players involved, a trade could offer a fresh start and the opportunity to play a more significant role on a new team. While leaving Green Bay would undoubtedly be bittersweet, especially for players like Dillon and Smith who have been key contributors, a trade could also open up new opportunities and challenges in their careers.

**Conclusion**

As the roster cutdown deadline approaches, the Packers will be faced with difficult decisions regarding the future of their team. While nothing is certain, AJ Dillon, Preston Smith, and Josiah Deguara stand out as players who could be on the trading block. Whether the Packers choose to move these players or keep them as part of their 2024 roster will depend on a variety of factors, including the development of younger players, the team’s salary cap situation, and the potential trade offers that come in. One thing is clear: the Packers are in a period of transition, and how they navigate these decisions will play a crucial role in their success in the upcoming season.