7 players the Packers must sell before trade deadline in fire sale

2. Preston Smith

Of all the veteran players the Packers could trade before the deadline, Preston Smith makes the most sense. It could be an easy win-win for both teams involved.

Smith has made at least one sack in his past three games, and he saved his best performance of the season for Week 8 against the Vikings. Smith made two sacks, four quarterback hits, one tackle for loss, and one pass defense.

The veteran is a reliable starter. Plenty of teams need pass-rush depth, and that's especially important for Super Bowl contenders. Smith can defend the run, too. He could start for several teams and make an immediate impact.

Smith turns 31 next month, so trading him to a win-now team makes the most sense. The Packers would miss his veteran presence on defense, but they could promote first-round pick Lukas Van Ness into a full-time role, giving him more opportunities to gain valuable experience.

Smith has four sacks and seven quarterback hits over the past three games. He has been among the few positives for the Packers in recent weeks. Smith could help a lot of teams. Brian Gutekunst should pick up the phone to any contender needing pass-rush help.