Green Bay Packers 2015 season grades: Defensive line

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Dec 27, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Mike Pennel (64) sacks Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) during the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Mike Pennel

Mike Pennel is a talented young player who played well when given an opportunity in 2015. Pennel was on the field for considerably less time than Daniels or Raji, but flashed potential when given his shot. He made the jump expected of him in year two, seeing his snap count increase from 175 to 315.

Pennel earned a 73.2 grade by Pro Football Focus, which ranks him second among Packers’ interior defenders and 63rd in the NFL. His best work came against the run.

His performances led to belief he could become the Packers’ future starting nose tackle. It’s unknown what Dom Capers’ plans are with the defensive line moving forward. There’s a chance Guion takes the role.

Pennel hasn’t helped his future outlook by getting suspended for the first four games of the 2016 season. His suspension was enforced due to violating the league’s substance abuse policy. This is a major setback for a young lineman with a promising future.

Does this mean the Packers are more likely to add more bodies to the line in the draft or free agency? That’s very much a possibility, which could take away a chunk of Pennel’s snaps.

Grade: C+

Next: Overall

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