Bears and Packers Quiet at NFL Trade Deadline

The Green Bay Packers opted for a conservative approach at the NFL trade deadline, only trading veteran pass rusher Preston Smith to the Steelers, despite visible shortcomings in their roster. General Manager Brian Gutekunst decided to maintain the current lineup, emphasizing that adding new players wouldn't automatically resolve the team's ongoing issues, which include self-inflicted wounds in crucial moments. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears, sitting at 4-4, also refrained from making any significant trades, marking the first time under GM Ryan Poles that they did not acquire new players at the deadline. Instead, they traded running back Khalil Herbert for a seventh-round pick, reflecting a focus on future draft capital rather than immediate improvements. Both teams face critical challenges as they prepare for the second half of the season, with the Bears particularly struggling with injuries on the offensive line and a need for reinforcements. The Lions and Vikings, in contrast, made notable moves to bolster their rosters, highlighting the varying strategies within the NFC North.