The Green Bay Packers defense will look considerably different in 2024 than it has over the past few decades. Green Bay’s new defensive coordinator, Jeff Hafley, intends to deploy a 4-3 scheme for the first time since Dom Capers joined the job in 2009.
Most significantly, Hafley believes in putting his players in situations where they can succeed rather than forcing them to fit into a strategy that does not match their skill set. This means that cornerbacks Jaire Alexander and Carrington Valentine, who excel in press man defense, will be able to defend whichever they choose.
It also means that the Packers must figure out their defensive line. Clearly, Kenny Clark will be one of the inside defensive linemen. Devonte Wyatt, Karl Brooks, Colby Wooden, and TJ Slaton will all compete for a starting spot on the line.
What about Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, both edge rushers? Gary was recently extended, but Smith is in the final year of his deal and could be a salary cap casualty. Kingsley Enagbare tore his ACL last season, limiting how much he can play in 2024. One NFL analyst believes that these questions make the Packers the best trade partner for Khalil Mack, an eight-time Pro Bowler.
The Green Bay Packers were named the best trade partner for Los Angeles Chargers’ pass rusher Khalil Mack.
Matt LeVine, who covers the Los Angeles Chargers for Sports Illustrated, just published a piece outlining Khalil Mack’s top three trade destinations. The Chargers just cannot afford to maintain both him and Joey Bosa, so they want to trade one before cutting the other.
Mack, who recorded 17 sacks last season (including six in one game against the Las Vegas Raiders), may be the most appealing trade asset because he is not under contract beyond 2024.
When asked why Green Bay might make the best trade partner for the Chargers, LeVine wrote:
“The Packers surprised a lot of people last season by making the divisional round of the playoffs. Quarterback Jordan Love appeared to be the real deal, and they will try to improve this coming season.
“Adding someone like Mack might go a long way toward helping them take the next step, potentially into Super Bowl contention. Green Bay has some quality defenders as well, but they have several second-round draft picks that the Chargers may be interested in.
“Mack suiting up for the historic team could be special, while the Chargers get extra draft assets.”
While trade for Mack is an exciting prospect for Green Bay, and he would significantly improve the defense, there are several other factors to consider that LeVine does not address.
Is Khalil Mack a worthwhile trade target for the Green Bay Packers?
Earlier this summer, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst stated that the team’s abundance of draft picks will allow him to be creative with acquisitions, but adding a player with a $38 million salary charge in 2024 does not appear to be something he would consider.
Furthermore, Mack will be 33 next season. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, the Packers are very committed to their youth movement. If anything, the Packers would rather add another pass rusher in the draft or a cheaper one in free agency than add Mack via trade.
While it’s entertaining to imagine, it’s unlikely to happen.
