Rashan Gary has been one of the most recognizable pass rushers for the Green Bay Packers over the past several seasons. However, during the 2026 NFL offseason, the franchise decided to move on from the veteran edge rusher in a trade with the Dallas Cowboys. The move sparked debate across the league, with fans questioning the reasons behind the trade and what Gary’s future holds.
Below is a detailed look at the trade, Gary’s highlights, his performance grades, and why the Packers ultimately decided to deal him.
Rashan Gary Trade Details
In March 2026, the Packers reportedly traded Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick.
Gary spent seven seasons in Green Bay after being selected 12th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft. During his tenure, he recorded:
-
46.5 sacks
-
46 tackles for loss
-
111 quarterback hits
-
1 Pro Bowl selection (2024)
The trade helps Dallas strengthen its defensive front while allowing the Packers to clear valuable salary-cap space.
Why Did the Packers Trade Rashan Gary?
Several factors led to the Packers’ decision to move Gary:
1. Salary Cap Relief
Gary carried a cap hit of around $28 million in 2026, one of the largest on the Packers roster. Trading him frees nearly $11 million in cap space for Green Bay.
2. Declining Production
Although Gary started the 2025 season strongly with 7.5 sacks early in the year, he struggled in the second half and failed to maintain consistent pressure.
3. Injury History
Gary previously suffered a torn ACL in 2022, and while he returned to form, some analysts believe his explosiveness declined afterward.
4. Defensive Roster Changes
The Packers have reshaped their defense in recent seasons. With new pass-rush options and younger players developing, the team chose to reallocate resources elsewhere.
Rashan Gary Highlights and Playing Style
Gary is known for his powerful pass-rush technique and versatility. He can line up both as a defensive end and interior rusher, giving defensive coordinators flexibility.
Key highlights of his career include:
-
Dominant pass-rush performances during the 2024 season
-
Multiple games with two or more sacks
-
High pressure rate against elite quarterbacks
-
A Pro Bowl appearance in 2024
Despite never recording a double-digit sack season, Gary consistently generated quarterback pressure and disruptive plays.
Rashan Gary PFF Grade and Performance Metrics
Advanced analytics from Pro Football Focus (PFF) have often rated Gary as a solid but not elite edge defender.
Typical trends in his grading profile include:
-
Strong pass-rush win rate in peak seasons
-
High pressure numbers despite limited snap counts
-
Occasional inconsistency in run defense
Gary’s career totals also include 334 pressures and over 100 quarterback hits, demonstrating his ability to impact opposing quarterbacks even when sacks were limited.
What the Trade Means for the Cowboys
For the Cowboys, Gary fills a major need on the defensive line. The team struggled defensively in the previous season and ranked near the bottom of the league in several defensive categories.
Adding Gary gives Dallas:
-
A proven pass rusher
-
Veteran leadership
-
A flexible defensive piece for multiple schemes
Final Thoughts
The trade of Rashan Gary marks the end of an era for the Packers’ defensive front. While he never fully became the dominant star many expected when he was drafted, Gary still produced consistently and earned a Pro Bowl nod during his time in Green Bay.
For Dallas, the move represents a calculated gamble—adding a talented edge rusher who still has the potential to impact games at a high level.
Leave a Reply