Packers: 5 biggest needs after first wave of free agency
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2. Edge rusher
The Packers’ defense will only improve if the unit can rush the passer with more consistency than it did in 2017. Adding a couple of pieces this offseason is key.
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Green Bay has a solid partnership in Clay Matthews and Nick Perry. The pair combined for 14.5 sacks last season, and 16 in 2016. But the Packers need to surround them with more pass-rushing talent, especially considering both Matthews and Perry have struggled to stay healthy.
The signing of Muhammad Wilkerson is a good one. While he wasn’t brought in primarily for sacks, he is capable of pressuring the quarterback. Wilkerson has two seasons with double-digit sacks. His career-high was 12 back in 2015.
The Packers will likely need to turn to the draft as there is a limited supply of pass rushers on the open market. Former Chicago Bear Pernell McPhee would be a solid addition, but he comes with a long injury history.
Aside from any acquisitions the team makes, it’s also important for the young edge rushers on the roster to step up. Second-year Vince Biegel will get a full offseason after an injury-hit rookie season slowed his development. Reggie Gilbert is one to watch in 2018, too.
Even with the development of the young players, improving the pass rush through the draft is a must for the Packers. Urgency: Very high