The Green Bay Packers are making some significant moves this offseason, with linebacker Quay Walker heading to the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $40.5 million deal, including $28 million guaranteed. Despite the Packers' efforts to keep Walker, negotiations fell through, prompting them to trade for Zaire Franklin from the Indianapolis Colts.
Walker, a first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, was a standout performer for Green Bay. In the 2025 season, he racked up 128 tackles, eight tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and five pass deflections.
His ability to rally to the football, especially alongside Edgerrin Cooper, made them a formidable duo. However, their partnership was short-lived, lasting only two seasons.
The Packers are opting for a more budget-friendly approach by letting Walker walk and bringing in Franklin. While Franklin, a former All-Pro, had a solid 2025 season with 125 tackles, seven tackles for loss, two sacks, and five pass deflections, he struggled in pass coverage and had a high number of missed tackles. Green Bay hopes that under Jonathan Gannon's defensive scheme and playing alongside the emerging Cooper, Franklin will find his stride again.
General manager Brian Gutekunst is reshaping the Packers' roster after their Wild Card Round exit against the Chicago Bears. Key departures include Malik Willis, Kingsley Enagbare, and Walker, along with the release of Elgton Jenkins. Rasheed Walker and Romeo Doubs are also expected to leave in free agency.
Gutekunst is banking on Franklin and the younger players to rise to the occasion and fill the gaps. With some cap space still available, aggressive moves through trades and the draft will be crucial for the Packers to aim for Super Bowl contention in the 2026 season.