Packers should have interest in free agent Bruce Irvin

Defensively in 2018 the Green Bay Packers have been better overall, but their edge rushers have still been inconsistent and unreliable. With the Oakland Raiders’ release of edge rusher Bruce Irvin, it makes sense for Green Bay to sign him.

The Packers are in the top half of the league when it comes to sacking the opposing quarterback, but a majority of those have come from the defensive line or other personnel when they bring the blitz.

But the Packers edge rushers that consists of Clay Matthews, Nick Perry and Reggie Gilbert have been quiet this year.

The defense is far improved from 2017, but this is still an aspect that needs to improve and potentially, Bruce Irvin could be the answer.

Bruce Irvin’s career

So far for 2018 Bruce Irvin has had a slow start and is not playing up to his career numbers. But some of that could be attributed to playing for Jon Gruden and the Oakland Raiders.

However, over his career, Irvin has been a very productive pass rusher. Since being drafted in 2012 Irvin has accumulated 40 sacks, 254 total tackles, 90 quarterback hits and three interceptions.

Irvin was a huge contributor for the Seattle Seahawks and their dominant defense during their Super Bowl run.

Packers edge rushers

Up to this point in the season the Packers edge rushers have been disappointing and unproductive.

Clay Matthews has been in the headlines for some big plays at the end of games but overall we don’t hear his name for the most part.

Nick Perry had his best game against the San Francisco 49ers, where he had three pass deflections but other than that one game, he’s been non-existent.

Lastly, as much hype as Reggie Gilbert received during training camp and the preseason, we have not heard his name called at all during the regular season.

Up to this point as GM, Brian Gutekunst has been aggressive, let’s hope he keeps that trend going and the Packers acquire Bruce Irvin to help increase the effectiveness of the Packers pass rush.