The Green Bay Packers have emerged as a potential destination for Arizona Cardinals pass rusher Josh Sweat, according to NFL analyst Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report. With the team looking to strengthen its defensive front, many league observers point to the need for an established edge defender to complement the unit under new defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon.
Gannon previously served as head coach of the Cardinals from 2023 through 2025, giving him firsthand familiarity with Sweat’s capabilities. This connection could play a role in any discussions, as the Packers seek to bolster their pass rush while awaiting the return of star linebacker Micah Parsons from an ACL injury.
Last season with Arizona, Sweat delivered a strong performance, recording 12 sacks, 20 solo tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and 17 quarterback hits across 17 games. His skill set appears well-suited to Green Bay’s defensive scheme, providing immediate production and depth on the edge during Parsons’ recovery period.
“Teams may have to overpay a bit to land Sweat, but those seeking pass-rush help should inquire,” Knox wrote. “Potential Suitors: Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers.”
Sweat brings significant experience to any roster, having suited up for both the Philadelphia Eagles and the Cardinals during his NFL career. He has accumulated 55 sacks thus far, establishing himself as a reliable and productive pass rusher capable of disrupting opposing offenses.
Despite the Cardinals’ public stance that Sweat is not available via trade, history suggests such declarations can shift quickly. A similar situation unfolded with Cleveland Browns standout Myles Garrett, who was initially deemed untouchable before ultimately being dealt to the Los Angeles Rams, underscoring how front offices sometimes reconsider their positions.
Packers leadership would be wise to pursue Sweat aggressively, positioning him as an ideal complementary piece alongside Parsons once the latter receives medical clearance. Such a move could elevate the defense’s overall effectiveness and provide a proven veteran option to anchor the edge while younger players develop.
Parsons enjoyed an outstanding debut campaign with Green Bay, notching 12.5 sacks, 19 solo tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and 27 quarterback hits in just 14 games. His presence remains central to the team’s defensive identity, but the club must prepare for the possibility of an extended absence as he rehabilitates from the knee injury.
In the meantime, other members of the unit will need to elevate their performance to maintain momentum. Gannon has expressed optimism about the roster’s composition and the organization’s talent acquisition strategy under key decision-makers.
“They got a lot of talent,” Gannon said. “Matt and Gutey, the whole personnel side, has done a really good job. They’ve done a really good job in my opinion of acquiring talent. Good players. It’s a good mix of some younger players, we got some vets that are some really good players. That sweet spot.”
“McKinney, I think about, who’s been playing forever because he’s such a high-performing vet, but he’s still pretty young. And then you got some guys that are younger and in their first contract that have played really good football. We should have a chance.”
This blend of youth and experience positions Green Bay favorably heading into the upcoming season. Adding a player of Sweat’s caliber could further solidify the defense, creating a formidable group ready to compete at a high level once all pieces align.
As trade discussions potentially heat up around the league, the Packers’ interest in Sweat highlights their commitment to building a championship-caliber roster.
