Packers trade Preston Smith to Steelers

The Steelers aren't done on the trade front. Edge rusher Preston Smith is being added by the Packers, as first reported by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

(RELATED: Steelers add Mike Williams from Jets)

As the Packers employ a number of younger options on both sides of the ball, Smith has remained as one of the team's elder statesmen. The soon-to-be 32-year-old has been with Green Bay since 2019 and has been a full-time starter during this time. He shouldn't face a heavy workload in Pittsburgh, but he will be able to fill a key rotational role. According to Matt Schneidman of The Athletic, Pittsburgh is sending along a 2025 seventh-round pick.

During his tenure with the Packers, Smith reached 80% snap share twice, but he has seen his playing time decline over the last two years. However, the former second-rounder still managed to play more than half of the team's defensive snaps in 2024. With Rashan Gary deployed long-term along with recent conscripts Luke Van Ness And Kingsley EnagbareSmith remained on the trade block as of today's deadline.

The Steelers already have one of the best rushing tandems in the league TJ Watts And Alex Highsmith. Watt has one year left on that deal, while Highsmith received a four-year extension last summer; It is therefore on the books until 2027. Smith will serve as the team's OLB3 behind this pair, who have combined for 9.5 sacks this season.

Overall, however, the Steelers weren't as influential in sack production in 2024 (19th, 22nd in the NFL) as they have been in recent years. Smith — who has surpassed eight sacks six times in his career — will look to provide veteran strength on that front, at least for the remainder of the season. However, he is not just a tenant; The Mississippi State product is under contract for 2025 and 2026.

Smith is owed a total of $27.5 million over that period, and he is currently on track to incur cap hits of $17.5 million and $18.2 million over the next two years achieve. Therefore, it wouldn't be a surprise if the team and players work out a restructuring at some point relatively soon. For now, attention will be focused on Smith's ability to bolster a defense that already ranks 10th in both points allowed per game and yards allowed.

With a record of 6-2 on the year, Pittsburgh currently leads the AFC North. This meant the team was a clear buyer and general manager before the deadline Omar Khan hasn't shied away from adding something about trade during his tenure at the helm. It will be interesting to see how this latest move contributes to the Steelers' postseason push.