Packers Ponder Tag‑and‑Trade for Key Tackle

The Packers are short on money before the 2026 season starts, with only a little over $4 million above the cap. They don’t have many players they feel forced to keep, so their roster moves are flexible.

Focus on Rasheed Walker

• Position: Left tackle
• Tenure: 3 years with the team
• Possible Release: Next March if the Packers decide to let him go, freeing up space for a better deal.

Unconventional Strategy: Tag and Trade

A CBS Sports writer, Jonathan Jones, suggests an unusual move:

• Franchise tag locks Walker into a large salary, while the transition tag is slightly less.
• The Packers are known for careful spending; paying Walker that amount would be a significant hit to their budget.
• A trade would need extra value. Typically, they would only get a third‑round pick for Walker if traded.
• To make the deal worthwhile, another team would have to offer a second‑round pick or more.

Market Reality

• Walker’s projected market value is over $20 million a year, according to Spotrac.
• If the Packers tag him, they’ll be paying more than that estimate.
• The trade would need to bring in a pick worth at least the same value.

Insider Perspective

• Some insiders think the idea is unlikely. One source said the general manager might not want to tag Walker, and finding a buyer at that price is tough.
• Still, the possibility exists if another team values Walker highly enough.

Bottom Line

The Packers could tag and trade Walker to get draft capital back. It would be a bold move that might pay off if the right partner is found.