Five moves Packers need to make in 2021 offseason

1. Make the defense a strength

While the Packers ranked ninth in total defense in the regular season and did improve as the year went on, there are still areas of concern on this side of the ball. Matt LaFleur recognized this by deciding not to renew Mike Pettine’s contract. He wants changes on defense and that includes adding more talent.

The Packers have star players across the defense. Jaire Alexander and Za’Darius Smith were both second-team All-Pros in 2020. Kenny Clark is a former Pro Bowler. Darnell Savage and Rashan Gary are future stars.

Outside of Alexander, cornerback is a concern. Kevin King is a free agent. If he doesn’t return, who will start next to Alexander? Josh Jackson was a healthy scratch for much of the season. In the slot, Chandon Sullivan had a good year but it’s also an area the team could look to improve.

Not for the first time in recent years, cornerback is a need for the Packers.

They will also need to determine whether they have enough at inside linebacker. Krys Barnes played well as a rookie. Kamal Martin clearly has potential. But will they look for another talented linebacker?

If Preston Smith isn’t back in 2021, the Packers could need to add more pass-rush depth.

The defense was just OK this past season. To become a Super Bowl team, they need to finally make this side of the ball a strength. With a new defensive coordinator and more talent added in the offseason, they can achieve this.