Packers 2020 pre-draft preview: Depth at edge rusher a need

The Green Bay Packers should look to add an edge rusher on Day 3 of the draft.

A year ago, the Green Bay Packers used their first pick of the draft on edge rusher Rashan Gary. This came after signing Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith to big deals in free agency.

These moves went a long way to fixing what was the Packers’ biggest offseason need in 2019. The Smiths combined for 25.5 sacks.

But there is a need for some added depth at some point in the draft.

Free agency recap

The Packers didn’t re-sign backup edge rusher Kyler Fackrell, who signed a one-year, $4.6 million deal with the New York Giants.

Need in the draft?

Low.

Assuming Gary takes a step up in his second season, the top three spots on the depth chart are set. The Smith Bros. are the key parts of the Packers’ pass rush, although an injury to either player would be a major concern. Depth at the position is where the Packers could look to improve.

Draft outlook

Edge rusher is a premium position on defense so taking one in the early rounds should never be ruled out. Great defenses are able to rush the passer in waves, even when their starters are off the field. If the Packers were to land one of the best edge rushers in this class, it would go a long way to helping the defense reach the next level.

That said, it doesn’t need to be a priority. There are more pressing concerns on defense such as inside linebacker and defensive tackle, two areas Brian Gutekunst will need to address.

And, of course, adding talent at the skill positions on offense is a must.

But like cornerback, the Packers are an injury or two away from some issues at edge rusher. If they can add a talented pass rusher, even on Day 3, it would help the defense take a step forward.