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Packers Sign 2-Time Pro Bowl QB to Replace Malik Willis Just 1 Hour After He Joins Dolphins

 

 Posted March 9, 2026

GREEN BAY, WIS. — The Green Bay Packers reportedly moved with urgency at the quarterback position, targeting a 2-time Pro Bowl veteran just one hour after Malik Willis agreed to join the Miami Dolphin

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The move signals that Green Bay has no intention of leaving the backup spot behind Jordan Love unsettled for very long.

Willis had become an intriguing depth option for the Packers, but the situation changed quickly once reports emerged that he had reached an agreement with Miami.

His departure creates a clear opening in Green Bay’s quarterback room, especially for a team that still values experience behind its franchise starter.

But the Packers appear determined to respond immediately.

According to the framework now being discussed, Green Bay is working toward a deal with a veteran quarterback who has already proven himself at the NFL level, in a move designed to preserve stability in the quarterback room and bring in a reliable backup option for the 2026 season.

If the move is completed, the Packers would not just be adding experience.

They would be bringing in a player with a strong résumé, leadership presence, and the ability to step in if needed.

That player is Geno Smith.

For Green Bay, this would be a very different replacement compared to Malik Willis.

Willis offered mobility, youth, and developmental upside, while Smith brings poise, maturity, and the kind of command that comes from years of starting experience.

That contrast could be exactly why the fit makes sense.

The Packers do not necessarily need a direct copy of Willis.

Instead, they may be looking for a quarterback capable of stabilizing the room, supporting Jordan Love, and giving the coaching staff confidence that the offense can still function smoothly if the backup is ever called upon.

That kind of insurance matters for any team with serious ambitions.

Green Bay continues to build its offense around Love, but adding a veteran like Smith would strengthen one of the most important areas of the roster: quarterback depth.

It would also give the Packers a proven presence in meetings, on the sideline, and in the locker room.

If this deal gets done, the message from Green Bay would be clear.

The Packers are not only focused on their starting lineup, but also on protecting the structure of the team with smart, experienced depth.

Losing Malik Willis is certainly a notable change.

But if Green Bay turns around just one hour later and lands Geno Smith, the Packers could transform a short-term loss into a smart and steady roster move.

In the short term, this would immediately become one of Green Bay’s most talked-about developments of the offseason.

In the long term, the bigger question will be whether Geno Smith can become the veteran piece that helps the Packers maintain stability behind Jordan Love after Willis’ departure.

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Packers Sign Record-Breaking Deal with “Cornerstone” Who Led Eagles to Super Bowl Championship to Fill the Void Left by Rashan Gary
Green Bay, WI – In a bold move to strengthen their defense, Green Bay Packers have signed Josh Sweat, a Super Bowl champion edge rusher, to a record-breaking contract. This deal comes as a direct response to the departure of Rashan Gary, who was traded earlier in the offseason, leaving a significant gap in the Packers' pass-rush capabilities. Sweat, a key figure in Philadelphia Eagles’ defense, was instrumental in their Super Bowl LVII victory. With 55 career sacks, the 27-year-old edge rusher has proven to be one of the most disruptive defensive players in the league. His performance in Philadelphia, particularly under Jonathan Gannon, was a critical factor in the Eagles' success, and now, with the Packers’ signing, he is poised to bring that same level of intensity to Green Bay’s defense. This contract, reported to be worth $20 million over 3 years, makes Sweat one of the highest-paid edge rushers in the NFL, underscoring the Packers' belief in his potential to replace Gary’s production. Gary, known for his explosive speed and game-changing plays, was a cornerstone of Green Bay's defense before his trade, and his departure left a noticeable void. With Sweat now on board, the Packers hope to maintain their aggressive defensive approach, while ensuring they remain a top contender in the NFC. “Joining Green Bay is a big step for me, and I’m excited to get to work,” Sweat said after signing the deal. “I’ve had great experiences with Gannon, and I look forward to bringing that same energy to this team. I’m here to help fill that gap and push the defense to new heights.” Sweat’s signing is more than just a replacement for Gary; it is a statement move for the Packers. His ability to dominate off the edge, coupled with his leadership and championship pedigree, makes him a vital addition. With Gary gone and Preston Smith still leading the pass rush, the Packers now have a trio of formidable edge rushers who can disrupt opposing quarterbacks and elevate the defense to elite status. As the Packers continue to build a Super Bowl-caliber team, the addition of Josh Sweat fills a crucial need and solidifies their defense as one of the league's most fearsome. This record-breaking contract could be the spark that drives the Packers deep into playoff contention as they aim to return to the top of the NFC.

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