Green Bay Packers 2015 season grades: Defensive line

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January 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Mike Daniels (76) reacts after a defensive play against Arizona Cardinals during the first half in a NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Mike Daniels

Mike Daniels announced himself on the grand stage in 2016. He transformed from a very good interior defensive lineman into a star, and thoroughly deserved his new lucrative four-year, $41 million deal signed near the end of the season.

Daniels was considered undersized for the position when he entered the 2012 NFL Draft, which allowed him to slip to the Packers in the fourth round. Now, the other 31 teams wish they had taken a chance on the player quickly becoming one of the best interior linemen in the NFL.

Daniels finished the season with four sacks, a forced fumble and two defended passes. He received a 90.4 overall grade from Pro Football Focus which falls into their highest category of elite. He was ranked ninth among interior defensive linemen.

After a dominant 2015, Daniels has emerged as the Packers’ best defensive player alongside Clay Matthews. For the Green Bay defense to become one of the best in the NFL, Daniels and Matthews will need to stay healthy and continue their high level of play.

At just 26-years-old with his first mega payday, Daniels will continue to be a major piece on the Packers’ defense for a long time.

Grade: A

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