NFC contender makes perfect Packers LB upgrade available via trade

Even if former first-round pick Quay Walker becomes a quality starter, the Green Bay Packers will be fairly thin and suspect at the linebacker position. Most of Green Bay's future success inside depends on hopes and dreams that Walker and the other youngsters will mold themselves into something productive.

The Packers have invested in young alternatives like second-rounder Edgerrin Cooper and third-rounder Ty'Ron Hopper, but it remains to be seen if there is even a pathway for either of them to become starters early in their respective careers. Green Bay could look to the trade market for a quick upgrade.

Despite the fact the Los Angeles Rams are once again fighting for a playoff spot, it appears as though the money they have tied up in their superstars is making it difficult for starting linebacker Ernest Jones to get his. As a result, it looks like LA is willing to trade him away.

If the Packers get any inclination that Jones will be available, they need to put a full-court press on LA to make them accept a trade. Jones not only fills their biggest defensive need, but he also gives them a long-term starter who can make Green Bay more willing to part with Walker if he underperforms.

Packers must consider trade for Rams linebacker Ernest Jones

Between his excellent speed, stellar 82.1 PFF grade, and ability to pile up tackles to the tune of over 140 in just 15 games last season, Jones has a lot of the traits that modern linebackers need for success. Still just 24 years old, Jones' best football is clearly in the windshield.

The Packers may not want to acquire Jones after taking two linebackers on Day 2, but the odds of both of them becoming starters and significant upgrades over Walker are quite small. Jones, meanwhile, is a proven difference-maker with postseason experience.

The Packers simply need to be prepared for Jones to warrant a contract that pays him close to $14 million per year. That's right around what Buffalo's Matt Milano makes, and everyone above Milano is over the $18 million per year threshold.

Jones is not going to come cheap, and the Packers may believe in some of their young guns, but they also know that they need one more big name on the defensive side of the ball to take that group from good to great, and Jones can easily suffice.

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