Packers Blockbuster Trade Proposal Lands $31 Million Pass Rusher

Yahoo

2 days ago

Packers Blockbuster Trade Proposal Lands $31 Million Pass Rusher originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
With less than three weeks until training camp begins, General Manager Brian Gutekunst still has time to make a few final additions before the Green Bay Packers resume team activities. Still, that should not stop him from seeking upgrades during the preseason if the right opportunity comes along.
Advertisement
If the Packers were to make any additional acquisitions, they would most likely come on the defensive side of the ball. The team did a solid job this offseason of surrounding quarterback Jordan Love with more talent—both in the receiving corps and along the offensive line. However, on defense, there is still a noticeable void: the Packers lack a true No. 1 cornerback and are missing a superstar-caliber pass rusher to anchor the defensive line.
Green Bay is betting on internal growth, trusting that Jeff Hafley and DeMarcus Covington can elevate the defense through development. Still, it would not hurt to explore a few additional options—whether on the free-agent market or via potential trades with other NFL teams. With that in mind, AtoZ Sports writer Wendell Ferreira, along with Colts beat writer Destin Adams and Saints beat reporter Adam Holt, proposed a blockbuster three-team trade involving the Packers, Giants, and Raiders.
New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) warms up before a game against the Minnesota Vikings at MetLife Stadium.© John Jones-Imagn Images
The proposed trade terms are as follows:
Advertisement
Packers receive: Edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux
Raiders receive: Wide receiver Romeo Doubs
Giants receive: Tight end Michael Mayer and a 4th-round pick from Green Bay
Wendell then explained why the trade makes sense for Green Bay, highlighting that Kayvon Thibodeaux's profile aligns well with the type of player Brian Gutekunst typically targets.
"The Packers didn't invest much in the edge defender position this offseason, despite underwhelming production from the group in 2024. Even though general manager Brian Gutekunst is not exactly aggressive in the trade market, Kayvon Thibodeaux is the type of player he would consider," Wendell wrote. "The edge rusher is young, plays at a premium position, is a former top-5 pick, and has a track record of solid production in the NFL. The Packers would absorb $4.978 million in 2025 and $14.751 million in 2026, which is an excellent value."
Wendell also pointed out Romeo Doubs' contract situation, noting that it could influence Green Bay's decision to include him in a trade package.
"Parting ways with Romeo Doubs might not be an easy decision, but he's entering the final year of his rookie deal, the Packers haven't wanted to give him an early extension, and his ceiling is limited," he wrote. "To make things fair, Green Bay would also send the Giants a fourth-round pick, but that's still a great net value to the roster."
Advertisement
Kayvon Thibodeaux recorded 21 sacks and 121 pressures in his first three seasons with the Giants. In 2024, New York traded for Brian Burns and then selected Abdul Carter third overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. While Thibodeaux should still see some playing time in New York, the significant investments in Burns and Carter—both projected starters—could create a scenario where Thibodeaux becomes available for trade.
Related: Packers Named Possible Landing Spot For Former No. 1 Overall Pick
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 4, 2025, where it first appeared.