Green Bay Packers: 3 positions of need Packers could trade for

The Green Bay Packers could use an upgrade at these three positions and the trade market might be someplace for them to explore.

The 2019 NFL trade deadline is fast approaching, as it’s set for Tuesday, Oct. 29 at 3 pm CT. That gives the Green Bay Packers just over a week to make a deal with another team and upgrade their roster. General manager Brian Gutekunst has been active in free agency the last couple of years, as he’s been desperately trying to upgrade the talent on this team. It was also rumored that he was heavily engaged in the Khalil Mack sweepstakes last year before Mack was ultimately traded to the Chicago Bears.

Although it’s difficult to accurately assess just how active Gutekunst is in trade talks, he’s proven he deserves the benefit of the doubt up to this point. He clearly understands the window is closing quickly with Aaron Rodgers and is working diligently to build the roster around the two-time MVP.

Still, Gutekunst’s job is far from done. Despite the 5-1 record, there are some clear holes on this Packers’ roster. If they want to capitalize on this fast start, they could explore the trade market for these three positions.

Inside Linebacker

Blake Martinez is far and away the best inside linebacker on the Packers’ roster. He’s a stud and always seems to be around the ball. Unfortunately, it’s a huge dropoff in talent behind him with B.J. Goodson and Oren Burks. Goodson is a run-stuffing linebacker who has done okay during his time in Green Bay. While Burks just returned from injury and has yet to make an impact as the coverage-backer he could be.

The Packers’ run defense has struggled at times this season and they could really benefit from another solid inside linebacker behind Martinez. A lot of the time, defensive coordinator Mike Pettine is forced to get creative with a safety/linebacker hybrid. Solving this issue could go a long way in allowing the defense to take the next step.

Tight End

This is a very veteran-heavy group with Jimmy Graham and Marcedes Lewis leading the way at the position. Robert Tonyan is the third tight end, but he’s struggled with injuries this year. The good news is Jace Sternberger has started practicing now and he could be the shot in the arm this position needs.

However, Green Bay would be wise to look elsewhere as well. Rodgers lacks offensive weapons around him and needs more help in the passing game. Graham has dropped multiple touchdowns on the year and struggles to get open consistently. A weapon at tight end could help the offense become more dangerous.

Wide Receiver

This is the biggest and most obvious position of need. Ever since Davante Adams went down with an injury three weeks ago, the rumors about trading for a receiver ramped up. However, nothing has seemingly progressed on the trade front and Adams is set to miss his third straight game this Sunday. If the Packers want to give Rodgers and this offense help, even when Adams gets back, they should explore the veteran receivers who are out there.