Packers' Rashan Gary Unlikely Trade Target for NFC Rival

Green Bay unlikely to trade star pass rusher with expiring contract

Feb. 19, 2026 at 12:47am

The Green Bay Packers are expected to part ways with several high-profile players this offseason, including edge rusher Rashan Gary. While the Philadelphia Eagles have been reported as a "dream" trade target for Gary, experts say such a move is highly unlikely, as teams are unwilling to trade for players who will soon be available as free agents or cap casualties.

Why it matters

The Packers have a history of being hesitant to trade players with multiple years left on their contracts, and Gary's recent decline in production makes it doubtful the team will extend his deal. Rather than trading Gary, Green Bay is expected to simply release him, allowing the Eagles and other teams to pursue him in free agency.

The details

Gary, a 2024 Pro Bowler, has recorded back-to-back 7.5 sack seasons, but his production tailed off significantly in the second half of last year. Given his expiring contract and the Packers' tendency to avoid trading players with term left on their deals, it's highly unlikely the team will entertain trade offers for Gary, even from a division rival like the Eagles.

  • In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Packers tried unsuccessfully to trade star cornerback Jaire Alexander, who they ended up releasing.
  • Gary's contract is set to expire after the 2026 season, making him an impending free agent or potential cap casualty.

The players

Rashan Gary

A 2024 Pro Bowl edge rusher for the Green Bay Packers who has seen his production decline in recent seasons.

Jaire Alexander

A star cornerback for the Packers who the team unsuccessfully tried to trade in 2025 before ultimately releasing him.

Philadelphia Eagles

An NFC rival of the Packers who have been reported as a potential "dream" trade destination for Rashan Gary.

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What’s next

The Packers will likely release Rashan Gary this offseason, allowing him to sign with the Eagles or any other team as a free agent.

The takeaway

The Packers' history of avoiding in-season trades for players with term left on their contracts, combined with Gary's declining production, make it highly unlikely that Green Bay will entertain trade offers for the pass rusher, even from a division rival like the Eagles. Instead, the Packers are expected to simply release Gary, allowing him to sign elsewhere as a free agent.