In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Green Bay Packers are reportedly considering a blockbuster trade that would see former first-round pick Lukas Van Ness, a $17 million defensive star with 65 career tackles, shipped to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for unsigned rookie edge rusher Shemar Stewart. The proposed deal, which also includes a third-round pick heading to Cincinnati, has left fans and analysts stunned as the Packers aim to shake up their roster in pursuit of an NFC North title.
A Bold Move Amid Defensive Struggles
The Packers’ defense has been a point of concern heading into the 2025 season, particularly after the surprising release of star cornerback Jaire Alexander just over a week ago. According to Packers reporter Mike Clemens, general manager Brian Gutekunst met with Alexander one final time, offering a chance to restructure his contract. When Alexander declined, he was released the following morning, leaving a significant void in Green Bay’s secondary. The move signaled the Packers’ willingness to make tough decisions to reshape their roster for a championship run.
With the pass rush also underperforming last season—ranking eighth in total sacks (45) but only 14th in quarterback pressures (143)—the Packers are desperate to bolster their defensive front. Despite high expectations, Lukas Van Ness, the No. 13 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has yet to fully live up to his potential. In two seasons, Van Ness has recorded seven sacks, 16 quarterback hits, 14 tackles for loss, and one forced fumble across 34 games without a single start. While he’s been solid against the run, his limited snap count and lack of elite production have raised questions about his fit in Green Bay’s defensive scheme.
The Trade Proposal: Van Ness for Stewart
Bleacher Report’s Mitch Milani has floated a trade idea that could address Green Bay’s pass-rushing woes while giving Cincinnati a proven, if underperforming, talent. The proposed deal would send Van Ness and a 2026 third-round pick to the Bengals for Shemar Stewart, a 21-year-old edge rusher selected 17th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. Stewart, a former Texas A&M standout, brings elite physical attributes—standing 6’7”, weighing 267 pounds, and boasting a 4.59-second 40-yard dash and a 40-inch vertical leap. However, his college production (4.5 sacks over three years) and current contract dispute with the Bengals raise questions about his immediate impact.
“The Green Bay Packers could send Lukas Van Ness and a third-round pick for Shemar Stewart. Van Ness hasn’t exactly worked out as a first-round talent for the Packers—good against the run, steady player, he could help the Bengals for sure,” Milani said. “At the same time, [Green Bay needs] to boost this pass rush, add some upside for this Packers defense, and Stewart might be a better fit for this current version of this Packers defense.”
The Bengals’ inability to sign Stewart stems from a contract dispute over language that would allow the team to void future guarantees, a clause Stewart has publicly opposed. His absence from mandatory minicamp and ongoing standoff with Cincinnati have fueled trade speculation, with teams like the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Washington Commanders also rumored as potential suitors.
Why the Trade Makes Sense for Both Sides
For the Packers, acquiring Stewart represents a high-upside gamble. His athletic profile suggests he could develop into a dominant pass rusher, addressing a critical need for a team looking to compete with the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings in a competitive NFC North. Green Bay’s coaching staff, led by Matt LaFleur, has also experimented with Van Ness as an interior defender, but the team appears ready to move on in favor of a player who might better fit their current defensive scheme.
For the Bengals, Van Ness offers a reliable, versatile defender who could thrive in a new environment. Cincinnati is also navigating a contract dispute with four-time Pro Bowler Trey Hendrickson, making Van Ness a valuable addition to their defensive line depth. The third-round pick sweetens the deal, giving the Bengals additional draft capital to address other roster needs.
Fan Reaction: Shock and Debate
The proposed trade has sparked heated debate among Packers fans, many of whom are stunned at the idea of parting ways with a former first-round pick. Social media platforms have been abuzz with reactions, with some fans excited about Stewart’s potential and others frustrated at giving up on Van Ness, who was once dubbed “Hercules” for his college dominance at Iowa. Posts on X reflect the polarized sentiment, with some calling the trade a “genius move” to inject youth and upside into the defense, while others label it a “panic move” that could haunt Green Bay if Van Ness blossoms in Cincinnati.
A Pivotal Moment for Green Bay
As the Packers prepare for the 2025 season, this potential trade underscores their aggressive approach to addressing defensive shortcomings. With Rashan Gary leading the pass rush and rookie Barryn Sorrell expected to contribute, Stewart could provide the spark Green Bay needs to elevate its defense. However, trading a known commodity like Van Ness for an unproven rookie carries risks, especially given Stewart’s limited college production and ongoing contract drama.
The coming weeks will be critical for both teams as they weigh their options. For now, the NFL world is left reeling from the possibility of this stunning trade, which could reshape the futures of two promising young defenders and alter the trajectory of two franchises vying for playoff contention.