Green Bay Packers Go All-In To Land T.J. Watt In Blockbuster Trade Proposal That Would Put Them Over The Hump
GREEN BAY, WI – June 26, 2025: The Green Bay Packers are making a bold push to cement their Super Bowl 2025 aspirations, reportedly targeting Pittsburgh Steelers’ superstar T.J. Watt in a blockbuster trade proposal. With the NFC race heating up, GM Brian Gutekunst aims to vault the Packers over the hump with this game-changing move.
Rumors of Watt’s availability surfaced after a cryptic X post hinting at contract frustrations with Pittsburgh, igniting league-wide speculation. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox outlined a stunning trade package that could overhaul Green Bay’s defense, addressing a pass rush that ranked 22nd in pressure percentage last season.
Proposed Trade Details:
Steelers receive:
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Lukas Van Ness (Edge Rusher)
2026 first-round pick (No. 23)
2027 third-round pick
CB Keisean Nixon
Packers receive:
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T.J. Watt (Edge Rusher)
CB Donte Jackson
T.J. Watt, the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year, remains a dominant force at 30. His 11.5 sacks and NFL-leading six forced fumbles in 2024 would transform Green Bay’s pass rush, which struggled despite adding Jadeveon Clowney (Pro-Football-Reference). Watt’s 108 career sacks far outshine the output of current edge rushers like Van Ness (3 sacks in 2024).
“Lukas Van Ness has upside, but Watt’s a proven difference-maker,” Knox wrote. Van Ness, a 2023 first-round pick, hasn’t met expectations, making him a trade chip. The 2026 first-rounder, 2027 third-rounder, and veteran corner Keisean Nixon sweeten the deal for Pittsburgh, who could rebuild around young talent.
Cheeseheads erupted on X: “Watt in green and gold? Super Bowl bound!” one fan tweeted. Others were cautious: “Giving up Van Ness and picks for a 31-year-old? Risky move!” Gutekunst’s history of bold trades—like signing Josh Jacobs—fuels optimism, with $22 million in cap space to absorb Watt’s $30 million annual salary (Spotrac).
The trade would pair Watt with Rashan Gary and Kenny Clark, creating a fearsome front. Donte Jackson, who had 5 interceptions in 2024, strengthens the secondary after Jaire Alexander’s departure. Jeff Hafley’s aggressive scheme would maximize Watt’s impact.
If Watt’s price is too steep, Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano suggested Calais Campbell, a 38-year-old free agent with 6.5 sacks in 2024, as an alternative.
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