Free agency has been a bit disappointing this year for the Green Bay Packers. They haven’t brought in any real help at the wide receiver position — they signed Mecole Hardman, but he isn’t expected to help a ton — and they have thus far failed to address their need for better pass rushing.
Last season, only Rashan Gary had more than 5.0 sacks for Green Bay as it came in a bit beneath expectations by finishing 11-6 and losing in the wild-card round of the playoffs.
Chris Schad of FanSided’s Dairyland Express suggested that Green Bay explore a trade for Travon Walker, a young edge rusher who could be available for the right price.
“According to Walter Football’s Charlie Campbell, the Jacksonville Jaguars are willing to listen to offers for edge rusher Travon Walker,” Schad wrote. “The No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 draft, Walker has recorded double-digit sacks in back-to-back campaigns and could be looking for a contract extension ahead of next season.”
Walker is heading into the final year of a $37 million contract, and with the market for pass rushers going through the roof across the NFL, perhaps the Packers could land him if executive Brian Gutekunst willing to give up enough.
“Walker’s asking price could also go up in the coming weeks as the Detroit Lions are in the ‘planning stages’ of a contract extension with Aidan Hutchinson. If Hutchinson agrees to a deal, Walker could want more money, prompting the Jaguars to consider whether it would be a better move to acquire pieces to build around quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
“If that happens, Brian Gutekunst should make the call immediately. The Packers have eight total selections in this year’s draft and have all of their picks in the 2026 draft available to make a move. Gutekunst has also shown a willingness to trade this year’s first-round pick (No. 23 overall) and Walker could be a good reason to send it to Jacksonville.”
Walker, 24, put up 10.5 sacks, 15 quarterback hits, 13 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and 61 total tackles (31 solo) in 2024. He’s the type of young stud who seems to be on the same timeline as the studs the Packers currently have in the fold.
Historically, the franchise has seemed averse to making huge splashes in free agency or on the trade market. But if it is to win its third Vince Lombardi Trophy any time soon, it needs to do what’s necessary on the open market to bring in the missing pieces it currently lacks.
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