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Packers: 3 biggest needs ahead of 2020 trade deadline

By Brian Sampson

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Head coach Matt LaFleur of the Green Bay Packers jogs across the field at halftime against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field on September 20, 2020 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Head coach Matt LaFleur of the Green Bay Packers jogs across the field at halftime against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field on September 20, 2020 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /
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Green Bay Packers
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – DECEMBER 23: Outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith #55 of the Green Bay Packers and linebacker Kyler Fackrell #51 of the Green Bay Packers celebrate after a sack against the Minnesota Vikings during the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 23, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

2. Pass rusher

Speaking of defensive woes, the Packers’ pass rush was supposed to be a strength of the team. Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith were coming off tremendous first seasons in Green Bay and Rashan Gary was primed to take the next step in his development.

Unfortunately, they’ve taken a step back as a unit. Part of it might have to do with Kenny Clark and Gary missing games, but the truth is neither Smith has been up to par this season. The Packers have only applied pressure to opposing quarterbacks on 17.4 percent of their dropbacks this season–the third-lowest percentage. It’s clear they aren’t able to rely on their natural pass rush as often as defensive coordinator Mike Pettine thought coming into the season.

There are rumored to be a few edge rushers available on the trade market if the Packers want to go that way. However, they could also target a defensive lineman or an inside linebacker to shore up their pass rush considering the potential and talent they already have on the outside.

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