Strengthening the defensive position already wanted to be a precedence for the Inexperienced Bay Packers this offseason. That’s very true now.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported that Jarran Reed is signing with the Seattle Seahawks, which implies he received’t be returning to the Packers.
Reed began 14 video games for the Packers this previous season, making 2.5 sacks, 14 quarterback hits, together with a career-best 52 tackles.
One other starter for Inexperienced Bay, Dean Lowry, will turn into a free agent on Wednesday.
Inexperienced Bay’s prime three defensive linemen now are Professional Bowler Kenny Clark, 2022 first-round decide Devonte Wyatt, and 2021 fifth-round decide T.J. Slaton.
That’s a great begin, however the Packers want so as to add extra expertise to the defensive position this offseason. Not solely do they want extra depth, however doubtlessly one other starter.
Wyatt ought to see a rise in snaps with Reed gone.
Potential free-agent targets may embody Fletcher Cox, Poona Ford, and Sheldon Rankins.
If Inexperienced Bay seems for defensive position depth within the 2023 NFL Draft, doable targets are Clemson’s Bryan Bresee and Pitt’s Calijah Kancey on Day 1, and Wisconsin’s Keeanu Benton on Day 2.
Even when Inexperienced Bay re-signs free-agent Dean Lowry, upgrading the defensive position ought to be a precedence this offseason.
The Packers struggled to cease the run this previous season, a well-recognized story. Inexperienced Bay ranked twenty sixth towards the run, permitting 139.5 dashing yards per sport. Additionally they allowed 5.0 yards per carry, fifth-most within the NFL.
Enhancing the defensive position would go an extended option to fixing the run protection points.
Kenny Clark remains to be a star participant. Devonte Wyatt ought to enhance in 12 months two after impressing in his rookie season. T.J. Slaton can also be a gifted participant.
However the Packers must proceed to construct their defensive position. Don’t be stunned in the event that they use one other early draft decide on a defensive lineman, particularly after dropping Jarran Reed in free company.