BREAKING: Packers Blockbuster Trade Proposal Sends $72 Million Defender to Green Bay
The Green Bay Packers have accumulated considerable defensive talent over the years, but acquiring Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jonathan Allen could add another seasoned veteran to their lineup.
Pack-A-Day’s Andy Herman discussed potential trade scenarios for the Packers during a Bleacher Report live stream, including a trade for Allen. Herman suggested that an in-season trade for Allen might occur due to potential injuries. A significant injury to key players like Kenny Clark or Devonte Wyatt could push the Packers to seek a veteran presence on the defensive line.
Herman believes that while a major trade is unlikely during the offseason, a significant move could be possible before the 2024 trade deadline if circumstances necessitate it.
Jonathan Allen Is in His NFL Prime
After a stellar college career nearly a decade ago, Jonathan Allen is now in the prime of his NFL career.
Coming out of high school, Allen was an All-American and 5-star recruit who had his pick of colleges but chose to play for Nick Saban at Alabama. His career with the Crimson Tide was marked by impressive achievements, including a national title, unanimous All-American selection, three first-team All-SEC honors, and the Chuck Bednarik Award for the nation’s top defensive player.
Allen’s dominant college career led to his early selection in the NFL Draft. The Washington Commanders (then the Redskins) picked him 17th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft. While he faced challenges as a rookie, Allen quickly developed into a reliable presence on Washington’s defense. Over eight seasons, he has amassed 382 combined tackles and 39 sacks, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2021 and 2022.
At 29, Allen is playing at a high level and is in the midst of a four-year, $72 million contract extension that expires in 2026. Given his performance and contract status, he could become a valuable trade asset if Washington decides to rebuild.
The Packers Have Defensive Line Depth
The Packers have continued to build their defensive line around Kenny Clark, providing much-needed depth as they head into the 2024 season.
Kenny Clark, Green Bay’s longest-tenured player, remains a cornerstone of their defense. A three-time Pro Bowler, Clark is only 28 years old and has plenty of football left in him. However, there are concerns about his long-term future with the Packers, as he is in the final year of a $70 million extension, and the team historically seldom awards third contracts to in-house players.
Alongside Clark, the Packers have discovered other reliable players for their defensive line. Devonte Wyatt, a former first-round pick, began to find his footing in his second season. In 2023, Wyatt played in all 17 games, recording 36 tackles and 5.5 sacks.
Karl Brooks also impressed as a rookie last season. Despite being a late-round pick from Bowling Green, Brooks ended the year with four sacks, four pass breakups, and a forced fumble, showcasing his potential.
Additionally, nose tackle T.J. Slaton has made significant plays throughout his career with the Packers. With the arrival of new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, the defensive front might see some changes, but the Packers are entering 2024 with a talented and deep defensive line.