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Green Bay Packers: Breaking down depth chart following free agency

By Freddie Boston

Oct 16, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; The Green Bay Packers huddle during warmups prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Lambeau Field. Dallas won 30-16. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; The Green Bay Packers huddle during warmups prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Lambeau Field. Dallas won 30-16. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports /

Outside linebackers

Starters: Nick Perry, Clay Matthews

Reserves: Kyler Fackrell, Jayrone Elliott, Reggie Gilbert

Re-signing Nick Perry was one of the top priorities this offseason. He led the Packers in sacks in 2016 with 11. Perry needs to prove this wasn’t a one-off thing. It’s easy to forget he signed a one-year “prove it” deal last offseason after a rookie contract hit hard by injuries and inconsistent play.

The play of Clay Matthews was also a concern in 2016. He too hasn’t been able to stay healthy, and may never become the double-digit sack artist he once was.

As is the case across the board, the development of the young outside linebackers is vital, especially after the Packers watched Datone Jones and Julius Peppers walk into Minnesota and Carolina respectively.

Verdict: If Perry and Matthews can stay healthy, the Packers have a solid foundation for their pass rush. Adding more talent via the draft is a major priority. Producing consistent pressure on the quarterback needs to happen to ease the pressure on the secondary.

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