Packers 'shocking' trade proposal would infuriate Jeff Hafley

Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst isn't afraid to make a bold move or trade, regardless of the fallout.

There have been surprising incomings and outgoings along the way, including in free agency and the draft. Nobody predicted he would draft Jordan Love. Few expected the Packers to sign Josh Jacobs and release Aaron Jones on the same day or to extend Aaron Rodgers before trading away Davante Adams.

If Gutekunst believes a move is right for the Packers—either now or in the long term—he is willing to make it happen.

Green Bay is expected to compete in a wide-open NFC North and push for a playoff berth. Expectations have changed since reaching the divisional round last January. For that reason, they shouldn't be sellers before the trade deadline later this year.

Bleacher Report believes Packers should trade Preston Smith this summer

Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine put together three trade proposals the Packers should pursue before the start of the season. One is to trade away edge rusher Preston Smith.

Ballentine broke down the financial benefits, including getting a contract with upcoming cap hits of $17.5 million and $18.2 million off the books.

"Trading Smith isn't a dire need, but it might turn out to be financially prudent," writes Ballentine. "Smith's stock should be pretty high given his production and health over the last few seasons, but one injury or disappointing season at this age would plummet his value."

Ballentine's argument is understandable. The Packers do need to consider their options with Smith's contract, considering the cap hits to come in future years. However, I'd argue that's a conversation for the offseason and not now.

He also compared the deal to the Rasul Douglas trade the Packers made before last year's deadline. A lot has changed since then. They were 2-5 and seemingly on course for a tough season. Now, the Packers are expected to compete.

Almost every player should be available at the right price, but no team is going to give up premium draft capital for Smith entering his age-32 season. Moving on would be a financial move for Green Bay.

But this team has a chance to make the Super Bowl. Quality pass-rush depth is an absolute must, especially in a division with talented passing offenses.

Yes, Green Bay has Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness, but Smith is a crucial starter in this defense and is coming off one of his best seasons, making eight sacks and 21 quarterback hits.

At last year's trade deadline, the Packers were heading toward a top-five draft pick and uncertainty over Jordan Love's future. Trading Rasul Douglas—at the time—was understandable, although disappointing. However, moving on from Smith would make no sense when considering Green Bay's ambitions this season.

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