On paper, the Green Bay Packers roster looks rather strong. A lot of people are excited to see the changes that come about defensively, where Jeff Hafley is taking over for Joe Barry as the team’s coordinator.
In three seasons under Barry, the team underachieved. After spending a lot of assets to bolster that unit, with a bunch of first-round picks, they didn’t produce at as high of a level as expected. There is hope that will change under Hafley.
One of the things people will be keeping a close eye on is the formation change. Barry operated with a 3-4 base, while Hafley will be 4-3. That will change positions for some players on the team and some roles.
The defensive line is one area where roles will change. The Packers will be playing multiple defensive tackles now with two defensive ends. Their roster could use some reinforcing in that sense, which has led to Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report suggesting some big moves.
One of the trades he suggested was the Packers pushing to acquire Jonathan Allen from the Washington Commanders. In the early stages of a rebuild with general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, continuing to turn veterans into future assets would make some sense.
“Despite that production, the Washington Commanders’ moves have indicated that he might not be part of their long-term plans. They handed Daron Payne a massive extension and drafted Jer’Zhan Newton in the second round of the draft.
Meanwhile, Allen has two years left on his deal and trading him after June 1 would save the Commanders $15.4 million against the cap.
Washington has made a lot of moves this offseason but they still aren’t as ready to contend as the Packers. Giving them another veteran who could push them over the top while stockpiling picks is something that could make sense for both sides,” wrote Ballentine.
Having the chance to open up that amount of cap space is something that could be very enticing to the Commanders. Allen remains a very productive player, but they have the pieces to replace him in the middle should a trade offer they like come across the table.
Over the last two seasons, Allen has racked up 80 pressures, 13 sacks and 34 tackles for loss. A true disruptor and game-breaking in the trenches, he would be a nice upgrade for the Packers. Adding him would help Green Bay improve against the run, an area they have struggled mightily in.
