Packers should pursue reunion with former pass-rusher before NFL trade deadline

The NFL trade deadline is less than two weeks away, and teams looking to get themselves ready for their push into and through the playoffs will be making deals. There have been a few players on teams out of contention that have already been floating around in trade rumors, and one player in particular would be an ideal target for the Green Bay Packers: Za'Darius Smith.

Smith is a former Packer and enjoyed two productive seasons in Green Bay before moving on to Minnesota and then Cleveland. With the Browns being an absolute disaster, they could try to trade Smith before the deadline, and Green Bay should look to bring him back to town.

The 32-year-old Smith has four sacks in seven games while playing 56 percent of snaps. This might not seem to be that impressive of a number, but when compared to the production the Packers have gotten in this department and upon the realization that he would be the team leader, this proposal becomes a lot more interesting.

Za'Darius Smith could help Packers win a competitive NFC North

When looking around the NFC North, it is clear that the division is good. There is not a single team with more than two losses, and the remaining games within the division are sure to be a bloodbath.

That is why it is crucial for the Packers to explore every avenue to improve their roster and find any type of advantage they may be able to get. Bringing in a productive and proven pass rusher, such as Smith, could be the difference-maker they are looking for.

Even if Smith plays at a similar level with a comparable amount of snaps played, the Packers' defense would be better off with him in the mix than without him.

Green Bay does not need him to be a star, but rather someone who can help the defense play at a high rate and has been there before. Smith checks both boxes and would be a welcome addition to a Packers defense looking to wreak havoc against their division rivals.

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