Packers gifted draft pick by Jets before Aaron Rodgers trade is even official

Aaron Rodgers hasn't even been traded yet, but the Green Bay Packers have benefitted.

Rodgers will almost certainly play for the New York Jets this season, assuming the two sides finally agree on a trade.

At the start of free agency, the Jets signed former Packers wide receiver Allen Lazard, one of Rodgers' favorite targets in recent years.

Lazard may have signed with the Jets regardless of Rodgers' future, but having his four-time MVP quarterback joining him in New York sure sweetens the deal.

No matter what happens with Rodgers, Lazard signing with the Jets will likely net the Packers a future draft pick.

By losing Lazard in free agency, the Packers are projected to receive a 2024 compensatory draft pick.

Packers projected to get fourth-round compensatory pick for Allen Lazard in 2024

According to Over The Cap's compensatory pick cancellation chart, the Packers are projected to receive a 2024 fourth-round pick for losing Allen Lazard.

Several Packers starters signed elsewhere in free agency. Lazard is the biggest loss.

Not only was Lazard a reliable receiver for the Packers, but he also made so many plays as a blocker. There's a reason why Aaron Rodgers trusted him and threw his way in key situations.

Lazard was incredibly consistent in his final two seasons with the Packers, catching a combined 100 passes for 1,301 yards and 14 touchdowns. He stepped into a bigger role following Davante Adams' departure.

In New York, Lazard will perfectly complement NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson.

We'll never know whether Lazard decided to join the Jets because of Rodgers or if it's coincidence.

However, the Packers have effectively traded Lazard to the Jets for a 2024 fourth-rounder, assuming Green Bay receives that compensatory pick next year.

The Packers will miss Allen Lazard this season, but they should expect to receive a compensatory draft pick in 2024.