Green Bay Packers 2018 roster preview: Mike Daniels
What can we expect from Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Mike Daniels in 2018?
The Green Bay Packers already had one of the league’s top defensive lines last season. One of the main reasons for that was the play of Mike Daniels.
But general manager Brian Gutekunst helped make the line even stronger this offseason by signing former New York Jet, Muhammad Wilkerson.
A defensive line featuring Daniels, Wilkerson and Kenny Clark could be dominant.
Once again, Daniels will lead the way.
2017 stats
Daniels only missed two games last season. He has been durable throughout his career. It was the first time he had missed a game since his rookie season in 2012.
Daniels finished 2018 with 49 tackles, five sacks and a forced fumble. It was his highest number of sacks since posting 5.5 in 2014.
2017 review
It was another strong season for Mike Daniels. He was finally selected to the Pro Bowl. That’s the good news. But the fact it took six years for his first selection makes no sense. He’s been arguably the Packers’ best defensive player for a number of years. But just because he plays along the defensive line and isn’t an edge rusher or cornerback, his work often goes unnoticed.
Odds of making roster: 100 percent
Daniels isn’t just an important member of the Packers’ defense, but one of the most important players on the entire roster.
2018 preview
We’ve seen Daniels dominate in Green Bay for a number of years. But now he gets to work in Mike Pettine’s scheme with Muhammad Wilkerson alongside him. That should be a lot of fun.
Leading the way, Daniels could be set for his best season yet in Green Bay.
Pettine spoke about focusing on creating interior pressure this season, something the Packers should be strong at.
"“That’s where it starts. It starts up front. People talk about the exterior pass rush, I think the interior pass rush is as important or maybe potentially more important,” Pettine said, according to Zach Kruse of Packers Wire. “If you can be dominant inside, I think that has a ripple effect throughout your defense.”"
With that in mind, Daniels could be key to the Packers getting more sacks this year. Daniels has consistently produced a solid number of sacks even though it hasn’t been his priority working on the defensive line.
With Pettine wanting to place an emphasis on interior pressure, it’s no surprise the Packers have made it a priority to strengthen the defensive line, especially signing a player like Wilkerson, who has experience playing in Pettine’s defense.
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Pettine’s arrival is good news for the Packers, and it could lead to Mike Daniels’ best season yet.