Packers' trade deadline philosophy looks much smarter in light of the NFL Championship Games
Everyone wanted moves. The Green Bay Packers certainly could have added a cornerback or an edge defender ahead of the trade deadline. They could have even acquired a wide receiver to make Jordan Love's life easier. But looking around, especially in the NFL Championship Games this past Sunday, and you understand why they were patient. […]
Everyone wanted moves. The Green Bay Packers certainly could have added a cornerback or an edge defender ahead of the trade deadline. They could have even acquired a wide receiver to make Jordan Love's life easier.
But looking around, especially in the NFL Championship Games this past Sunday, and you understand why they were patient.
Teams trading players away are doing it for a reason. And at that point of the season, they are usually overpriced. It's one of those rare parts of the season where the perception of draft picks are diminished compared to the value of veteran players.
Moreover, it's hard for players to create a real impact for their new teams during the season. Sure, smart coaches will find a way to make them role players and eventually find some success—nobody will be surprised if DeAndre Hopkins scores a touchdown in the Super Bowl.
But in terms of full-time success, it's too hard to make it happen without training camp, while having to learn the system, and adapting to a new locker room.
Championship Games
Of the four teams in the championship round, three acquired players ahead of the deadline. The impact was basically non-existent.
Washington Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore was probably the player whom Packers fans wanted the most. He allowed a 109.7 passer rating when targeted by the Philadelphia Eagles, and mentally affected by AJ Brown. Overall, it was a tough season for Lattimore, who had handled injuries. He played only five games for Washington, four of them with PFF grades lower than 60—and two with grades lower than 40.
The AFCCG brought together older receivers acquired at the deadline. Amari Cooper had four catches for 33 yards, and DeAndre Hopkins had a reception for 11 yards. None was a real difference maker. The Chiefs also acquired Josh Uche, but he was a healthy scratch.
Looking around
Evaluating all players acquired at the deadline, the most productive was Davante Adams, who had 854 yards and seven touchdowns for the New York Jets. That's as great of a production as you will get in that situation. Edge rusher Za'Darius Smith was also solid for the Detroit Lions, with four sacks—and his future is uncertain.
Jonathan Mingo had five receptions for 46 yards in eight games for the Dallas Cowboys. Cornerback Tre'Davious White was up and down for the Baltimore Ravens, while wide receiver Diontae Johnson was released and brought back so he couldn't play for another playoff team.
Overall, though, it's extremely rare to find real production—and even the best general manager in football, Howie Roseman, built a Super Bowl team without touching the deadline market. Sometimes, the best deals are the ones you don't make.
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