‘Didn’t Feel Comfortable’: Green Bay Packers Player Was Made Uncomfortable By Coach Before Trade.
Preston Smith is glad to no longer be with the Green Bay Packers. The veteran pass rusher was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Tuesday for a seventh-round pick.
During his time with Green Bay, Smith recorded 44 sacks, placing him 11th on the Packers’ all-time sack list. Over his 10-year career, he’s achieved a total of 68.5 sacks.
Drafted by the Washington Redskins in the second round in 2015, he joined the Packers in 2019.
Smith’s role in Green Bay’s defense had declined in 2024 compared to previous seasons under former defensive coordinator Joe Barry. New defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley introduced a 4-3 defense that Smith found challenging to adapt to.
According to Nick Farabaugh from PennLive, Smith revealed Wednesday that he had requested a trade due to his discomfort with the new scheme. His playing time dropped to 54% of defensive snaps, down from 66% in 2023.
“Preston Smith says a few weeks ago, he requested a trade out of Green Bay,” Farabaugh shared on X. “Didn’t feel comfortable in their new 4-3 scheme, so now he ends up in a 3-4 where he has played most of his career, and feels comfortable.
Smith says he already ‘loves the scheme’ and is excited.” Smith logged 2.5 sacks for Green Bay this season, after reaching eight last season, so the 31-year-old linebacker likely has much to offer the Steelers.
In his first game with Pittsburgh, Smith will face a tough challenge as the Steelers travel to play the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium, aiming to contain the elusive and quick Jayden Daniels in Week 10.
