Packers Linked to Potential TJ Watt Trade Amid New Rumors
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The Green Bay Packers were expected to make a move to improve their pass rush heading into the 2025 NFL offseason. To this point, no such move has been made.
Plenty of big names have been connected as possible targets for the Packers. One of the names still available is Trey Hendrickson, who has been linked to Green Bay on multiple occasions.
While the Hendrickson possibility is still an option, another name has been suggested as a possible target for the Packers.
T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts after a tackle in the game against the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter at Acrisure Stadium on November 13, 2022 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers reacts after a tackle in the game against the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter at Acrisure Stadium on November 13, 2022 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images
Pittsburgh Steelers superstar T.J. Watt has yet to receive a new contract extension from the team. After the trade that sent Jalen Ramsey to the Steelers resulted in a pay increase for the star cornerback, rumors have started rumbling about a possible Watt trade.
Read more: Packers Linked to Major Offseason Trade for Defensive Upgrade
If Pittsburgh is open to the idea of trading Wtt, could Green Bay consider making a run at him?
That is exactly what CBS Sports analyst Cody Benjamin has suggested. In his new editorial breaking down potential trade suitors for Watt, the Packers were firmly on the list.
"It's kind of a shame that Watt's older brother, JJ, never got to suit up for his home state at the NFL level. Perhaps T.J. can correct that," Benjamin wrote.
"The Packers aren't necessarily in dire need of a pass rusher with Rashan Gary headlining their group, but with Lukas Van Ness coming along slowly, why would they turn down a perennial All-Pro as they look to make a leap as a playoff contender? In the year 2025, when an ex-Packers great in Aaron Rodgers is trying to save Pittsburgh, this kind of a blockbuster swap would only be fitting."
Green Bay would instantly take a huge leap forward as a potential Super Bowl contender if Watt was acquired. Brian Gutekunst hasn't made many big blockbuster moves, but the opportunity to acquire Watt might be one he jumps at.
Read more: Report: Steelers Pull Off Blockbuster Trade for Jalen Ramsey
During the 2024 NFL season with the Steelers, Watt played in all 17 games. He recorded 61 total tackles to go along with 11.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and four defended passes. Back in 2023, he totaled 68 tackles, 19 sacks, four forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, an interception, and eight defended passes.
This is just an idea right now. No reports have suggested that Pittsburgh is looking to trade Watt or even open to the idea of considering it.
Should the Steelers decide to make him available, the Packers would instantly become a team to watch as a possible trade suitor. He's exactly the piece Green Bay needs to become an elite defense.
For more Green Bay Packers and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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