In a strategic maneuver, the Green Bay Packers have secured their ninth offensive lineman, shaking up their roster in an exciting trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. According to insider Adam Schefter from ESPN, the Packers have exchanged a sixth-round pick in the 2027 draft for offensive lineman Darian Kinnard.

Originally drafted in the fifth round in 2022 by the Kansas City Chiefs out of the renowned Kentucky program, Kinnard didn’t make the Chiefs' final roster last season but found a spot on their practice squad. After joining the Eagles, he started in the regular season finale when Philadelphia opted to rest its key players, showcasing his potential.

Notably, Kinnard is in elite company—alongside Ken Norton Jr.—as one of only two players to have triumphed in three consecutive Super Bowls. Interestingly, he was a pre-draft visitor to the Packers prior to the 2022 draft, hinting at Green Bay's long-standing interest in him. Since then, they've brought 29 pre-draft visitors onto their roster.

Kinnard’s versatility shines as he has experience playing both guard and tackle, making him an asset for a team in need of depth on the offensive line. This new addition poses a challenge for hopefuls Kadeem Telfort and Donovan Jennings, who were eyeing that coveted ninth spot. Meanwhile, the Packers have reportedly placed Travis Glover on injured reserve for the entire season to keep his contract intact, and rookie John Williams remains on the physically unable to perform list.

Despite being in the league for four years, Kinnard will only qualify as a restricted free agent next offseason, thanks to his time spent on the practice squad in 2023. Currently under a $1.03 million salary for the 2025 season, it’s anticipated that the tender for his first right of refusal in 2026 will be around $3.45 million, should the Packers wish to keep him from entering unrestricted free agency next year.

With the trade, the Packers now hold just six draft picks heading into 2027, including their first through fifth and seventh-round selections. They're not expected to receive a compensatory draft pick in 2026, but the departures of key players like defensive tackle T.J. Slaton and cornerback Eric Stokes will be balanced by new acquisitions like guard Aaron Banks and cornerback Nate Hobbs, according to league formulas.