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Packers Officially Sign $110 Million Defensive Star to Replace Kenny Clark After Parsons Trade

 

Green Bay, WI – Just days after pulling off one of the most shocking trades in recent NFL memory, the Green Bay Packers have doubled down on their defensive rebuild. The team isn’t just relying on Micah Parsons to reshape their pass rush—they’ve now locked in another major piece for the trenches.

The blockbuster deal that sent Parsons from Dallas to Green Bay for two first-round picks and Kenny Clark left fans wondering who could possibly fill the void left in the middle of the defensive line. Clark had been the anchor of the Packers’ run defense for years, and his absence created an urgent need.

Enter Christian Wilkins.

The former Miami Dolphins first-rounder and Pro Bowl defensive tackle has agreed to terms with Green Bay on a restructured deal after his controversial release from the Las Vegas Raiders. Just one year removed from signing a $110 million contract with Las Vegas, Wilkins’ guarantees were voided after a dispute with the team’s medical staff following a Jones fracture.

Despite the injury concerns, the Packers view Wilkins as the perfect answer. At 28 years old, he has tallied 22 career sacks and nearly 400 tackles, proving himself as one of the league’s most disruptive interior defenders. His ability to collapse pockets and eat up double teams gives Parsons the freedom to wreak havoc on the edge.

Green Bay’s medical staff is confident they can manage his injury, pointing to the success of wide receiver Jayden Reed, who is currently playing through the exact same fracture without surgery. That reassurance helped seal the deal for Wilkins, who wanted a fresh start with a contender.

“This is where I belong,” Wilkins reportedly told teammates after the signing. “They believe in me, and I’m ready to prove I can be the piece that gets this defense over the top.”

The move now gives the Packers one of the most fearsome defensive fronts in football—pairing Parsons and Rashan Gary on the edges with Wilkins controlling the middle. For general manager Brian Gutekunst, it’s a statement: Green Bay isn’t just thinking about the future, they’re going all-in on winning now.

With Parsons under contract as the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history and Wilkins signed to solidify the line, the Packers’ defense suddenly looks like a unit built for January football. If the chemistry clicks, this could be the move that shifts the balance of power in the NFC.

Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."