Packers could’ve traded for star defensive lineman before deadline
The Packers tried to trade for Dalvin Tomlinson before the deadline.
The trade deadline came and went earlier this week and the Green Bay Packers didn’t make any moves.
That alone isn’t surprising, but unlike in many years in the past, the Packers were interested in making a trade to improve the roster on both sides of the ball.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Packers attempted to trade for Houston Texans wide receiver Will Fuller and New York Giants defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson.
#Packers made a run at #Texans WR Will Fuller this week, but that wasn’t the only standout they offered a mid-round pick for. Source said they attempted to trade for #Giants DT Dalvin Tomlinson, tho NYG resisted dealing the captain even though he’s in the final year of his deal.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 8, 2020
There were lots of reports about the Packers’ interest in Fuller, so that doesn’t come as a surprise. But it’s also interesting that GM Brian Gutekunst looked for some help along the defensive line.
And Tomlinson could’ve been a great addition to this defense.
Green Bay’s defense has been a concern this season, especially against the run, something we’ve seen time and time again over the past couple of years. Adding a talented player like Tomlinson would’ve helped a lot.
Tomlinson is in the fourth year of his NFL career and will be a free agent next offseason, so it would’ve made sense for the Giants to trade him for a mid-round pick as they might not be able to re-sign him in the spring.
Fuller, too, could’ve been a difference-maker for the Packers. He’s having an incredible season and showed what he could’ve added to Matt LaFleur’s offense in the Texans’ win over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday. Fuller caught all five of his targets for 100 yards and a touchdown.
The Packers have a lot of talent on both sides of the ball and are well-positioned in the NFC with a 6-2 record. They didn’t need to make a trade before the deadline, but it certainly could’ve helped in a competitive conference.
In the end, Gutekunst couldn’t get a deal complete. As fans, it’s hard not to wonder what could’ve been with Fuller and Tomlinson on this team.