Defensive Line, WR Highlight Green Bay Packers Offseason Needs

Defensive Line

We’ll treat the defensive line as all-encompassing for the Green Bay Packers, including defensive ends and tackles. The offseason could net some cap casualties in this group, most notably Za’Darius Smith, who carries a massive cap number in 2022 and is likely the odd man out on the edge on early downs. Preston Smith could receive an extension, as he played good football in 2021, especially as an edge-setter versus the run.

It’s still open season to figure out who the running mate for Kenny Clark will be. T.J. Slaton still has potential, but betting on a day three pick to be a quality starter is a tough ask. Dean Lowry played better pushing the pocket. Still, though, don’t be surprised if the Packers go this direction in one of the first two rounds.

The Packers treat edge rushers as a premium position, and have gone that direction in the first round three times in the last decade, while also peppering later rounds with picks there. You can’t have enough pass rushers in this league, and while the window with Rodgers is shorter, Gutekunst will look long-term as well to form a duo with Rashan Gary.The players to watch at 28 at edge rusher would include prospects like Cameron Thomas, Myjai Sanders, Drake Jackson, and Boye Mafe.

If we move inside to the defensive line, there are a couple players worth looking at there. DeMarvin Leal is a bit of a tweener to watch for, as he can win from multiple alignments. Devonte Wyatt would also make sense as a wicked quick rusher who can thrive on all three downs.