Three predictions for Packers new-look defense in 2019

1. Za’Darius Smith will have double-digit sacks

When we look back at Green Bay’s work in free agency this past offseason, signing Za’Darius Smith might go down as the most important signing. Some might point to the fact that Smith’s career-best sack total is 8.5, which he achieved in 2018. But I’d counter by saying that in his 56 career games for the Baltimore Ravens, Smith only started 16.

As a starter in Mike Pettine’s defense, Smith could dominate. And that’s exactly what he’s been doing at training camp. Almost every day, reports from camp highlight how well Smith has played.

Zach Kruse of Packers Wire wrote about how Smith dominated in team periods against the Texans in joint practices last week. And Mike Spofford of Packers.com noted that Smith managed to get the better of All-Pro left tackle David Bakhtiari during one-on-ones earlier this month.

Throughout training camp, there have been many tweets like this one by WFRV Sports Anchor Lily Zhao:

Multiple reports have suggested it’s been a pretty even battle between Smith and Bakhtiari throughout camp. But for any pass rusher to find success against Bakhtiari, it says a lot about how talented they must be.

Given an important role in Pettine’s defense, this could be a breakout season for Smith.