Packers: 5 biggest 2020 draft needs so far this season

4. Defensive tackle

One has to wonder whether Brian Gutekunst has any regrets about releasing Mike Daniels. His reasons for moving on made sense, such as freeing up cap room. Daniels’ recent injury history was also a concern. But the Packers have missed him up front on defense.

While the pass rush has been strong all season long due to the arrival of the Smith Bros., the run defense has struggled. The Packers are No. 24 in run defense, allowing 127.7 yards per game. That’s not the recipe for success in January.

So far this season, Kenny Clark has been solid but unable to build on an impressive 2018 season. He hasn’t been helped out by his linebackers (more on that position shortly), but Clark also needs to improve. Hopefully, rookie Kingsley Keke will become a starter in the future.

Green Bay’s issues stopping the run is preventing the defense from becoming a consistent unit. And when opposing offenses are running the ball at will, it takes away the Packers’ biggest strength which is rushing the passer.

Help isn’t on the way along the defensive line, and once again the Packers may decide to use an early draft pick to upgrade an area of need on defense. Again, free agency will play a part. But Gutekunst might feel the best bet is to use a Day 2 pick at the position.