It would make sense for the Packers to get involved.
The Green Bay Packers don’t typically make bold moves at the NFL trade deadline, but two potential targets have emerged.
While the Packers don’t have any major concerns across the roster, it would make sense to bolster the pass rush if the right opportunity presents itself before Tuesday’s trade deadline. Two names to watch?
Azeez Ojulari and Baron Browning.
It’s unclear whether the Packers have expressed interest in either player, but NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Ojulari and Browning are generating interest at the trade deadline.
Rapoport also noted that former Packers pass-rusher Za’Darius Smith could be on the move, but a reunion seems highly unlikely, and it wouldn’t make much sense. Ojulari and Browning feel like realistic targets for general manager Brian Gutekunst.
Packers should consider adding a pass-rusher at the NFL trade deadline
The Packers have already found success by targeting a New York Giants defender after signing Xavier McKinney in free agency, and Ojulari would make a ton of sense. He is only 24 years old and is a productive pass-rusher, and the Giants’ only reason for moving on is because he’s in a contract year and is stuck behind Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns on the depth chart.
Thibodeaux has missed the previous three games since going on injured reserve, promoting Ojulari to a starting role. He has responded with four sacks, five quarterback hits, and five tackles for loss in that time.
Browning could be a more affordable option after a slow start to the season. Like Ojulari, Browning is in the final year of his rookie deal, which could give the Denver Broncos enough reason to listen to offers. The former third-round pick has yet to register a sack this season but has missed four games due to injury.
He also missed seven games last season, finishing with 4.5 sacks, nine quarterback hits, and two forced fumbles.
Ojulari offers more upside and could become a starter opposite Rashan Gary, but Browning may be a more affordable target who could solidify the Packers’ pass rush.
In all likelihood, the Packers won’t make a move before the trade deadline on November 5. However, they have shown interest in the past and tried to get deals over the line. Maybe they will get something done before Tuesday.
Ojulari and Browning are two names to watch.