Green Bay Packers Pulled Out of Trade for $39 Million Colts Star Grover Stewart

Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Grover Stewart during an NFL game.© X/@Easton__Butler

The Green Bay Packers had a chance to add an experienced defensive tackle before the NFL trade deadline, but their plans changed after negotiations with the Indianapolis Colts stalled. With Javon Hargrave out for the season, Grover Stewart looked like an answer to Green Bay's problems in the middle of its defensive line. The Packers were even willing to part with a valuable draft pick to bring him in. The two teams could not reach an agreement, leaving Stewart in Indianapolis.

Green Bay Packers walk away from Grover Stewart deal

Green Bay had reportedly put a fourth-round pick for Stewart, according to Packers reporter Easton Butler. The offer was made by the team last week, but Indianapolis wanted to wait until closer to the November 10 deadline before making its decision.

That delay in decision was costly for the Colts. Butler reported on X that the Packers eventually withdrew their offer rather than wait for Indianapolis to make up its mind.

NFL insider Jordan Schultz had earlier reported that the Colts received an offer involving a fourth-round selection and another late-round pick.

OutKick's Armando Salguero provided more details, reporting that the initial offer was a fifth-round pick before the package improved to include a fourth-rounder and another late selection.

The Colts had been exploring several deals as they looked to reshape their roster ahead of the deadline. Stewart was among the veterans they were willing to move, especially with his current contract approaching its end.

The 33-year-old was playing on a three-year, $39 million contract that was set to expire after the 2026 season. That made him an attractive option for a team looking for immediate help without committing to a long-term deal.

Javon Hargrave's absence left the Packers short at defensive tackle

The Packers had a clear reason to explore the market. Javon Hargrave suffered a torn Achilles in Week 5, ending his season and leaving a gap in the defensive line.

His absence was not Green Bay's only problem. Jonathan Ford had been on injured reserve since October with a calf injury, while Warren Brinson was sidelined with a groin strain. Both players were expected to return, but their availability had left the team dealing with limited options at defensive tackle.

Stewart could have brought plenty of experience to that group. He had spent his entire 10-year NFL career with Indianapolis, starting 118 of his 150 appearances. This season, he had recorded 28 tackles, two tackles for loss and half a sack through nine games.

His reliability was another reason the Packers showed interest. Stewart had not missed a start during the 2026 season and had remained available for most of his career.

Green Bay did have some help coming elsewhere on defense, with Micah Parsons back at practice and trending toward a return against the Los Angeles Rams on November 25.