Packers: Predicting Week 1 starters at edge rusher, inside linebacker

Who will start for the Packers at linebacker in Week 1?

Over the past two offseasons, the Green Bay Packers have made some big changes at both linebacker spots.

Just a couple of years ago, the top three outside linebackers were Clay Matthews, Nick Perry, and Kyler Fackrell, with Blake Martinez the starter inside.

All four players are now gone. So who will start in Week 1?

Predictions for Week 1 starters at linebacker

OLB: Za’Darius Smith

ILB: Christian Kirksey

ILB: Kamal Martin

OLB: Preston Smith

Even with Rashan Gary expected to earn a bigger role on defense, the two starters on the edge will again be the Smith Bros., who combined for 25.5 sacks last season.

Gary could earn more starts when the Packers have three edge rushers on the field with one of them lined up inside, but in Week 1 I’m expecting Mike Pettine to go with two inside linebackers in preparation for Dalvin Cook and the Minnesota Vikings’ rushing attack.

Christian Kirksey is the Packers’ number one choice on the inside and over the next couple of weeks, the team will determine who will start next to him when two inside linebackers are out there.

Rookie Kamal Martin is my choice.

The fifth-round pick has been earning praise from training camp. ESPN’s Rob Demovsky wrote that he’s been “perhaps the most impactful rookie” for the Packers so far at practice.

Competition comes from Oren Burks and Ty Summers, and soon Curtis Bolton once he’s healthy, but Martin looks to be the pick of the inside linebackers currently. He’ll make some mistakes along the way as it’s his first season, but playing alongside a veteran like Kirksey will help his development.

The Packers will be hoping for big improvements at inside linebacker, and the duo of Kirksey and Martin can provide that this season.