Green Bay Packers’ head coach might assert otherwise, but the team needs a high-caliber wide receiver this offseason. Despite a commendable 11-6 record and maneuvering through Jordan Love’s early knee injury, the Packers lacked a formidable passing threat, as no receiver surpassed 1,000 yards in 2024.

The injuries to Christian Watson’s ACL and the uncertain future of Romeo Doubs due to concussions have influenced the Packers’ plans, sparking rumors of their interest in Seattle Seahawks’ star D.K. Metcalf over the weekend. Although the Seahawks demanded a steep price, there’s hope for a reduction after some positive developments for Green Bay on Saturday night.

Deebo Samuel’s trade to the Washington Commanders might aid the Packers in securing D.K. Metcalf. According to Seahawks reporter Corbin Smith, Seattle was insistent on acquiring the Packers’ first-round pick (No. 23 overall) and either Doubs or Dontayvion Wicks for Metcalf and a Day 3 draft pick. Smith noted the deal was non-negotiable if the Packers offered less.

Originally, the terms seemed fair, but the dynamics shifted when the San Francisco 49ers dealt Deebo Samuel to the Commanders for a fifth-round pick on Saturday evening. The Commanders’ willingness to absorb Samuel’s entire $17.55 million salary for the 2025 season contributed to the low trade value, allowing the 49ers to clear cap space for quarterback Brock Purdy’s forthcoming hefty contract. This situation also bodes well for the Packers in terms of Seattle’s demands for Metcalf.

Both Samuel and Metcalf entered the league as second-round picks in 2019 and have enjoyed successful careers. Since 2021, their performance has been comparable, though Metcalf has outperformed with consecutive 1,000-yard seasons before achieving 992 yards last year.

Being two years younger than Samuel might justify a price higher than a fifth-round pick, but not as exorbitant as previously anticipated. The Seahawks’ position is weakened by recent trades of star receivers for lesser compensation, such as former Packers standout DaVante Adams, who joined the New York Jets for a third-round pick this past offseason.

Seattle might still opt to retain Metcalf as their top receiver heading into the offseason. However, even if the Packers don’t secure Metcalf, it should establish a fair market value for other receivers available for trade.