Packers 2021 pre-draft preview: What about edge rusher?

The Green Bay Packers invested heavily in the pass rush a couple of offseasons ago, and good results followed.

But last season, the pass rush took a slight step back, leading to questions about Preston Smith’s future with the team.

Far from the Packers’ biggest offseason need, but should edge rusher be a position they address in the draft?

Free agency recap

The big question early this offseason was whether Preston Smith would return or be a cap casualty. In the end, the Packers restructured Smith’s deal to create some cap room but keep him on the roster.

Need in the draft?

While not an urgent need, the Packers should always be open to adding more pass rushers.

Draft outlook

On paper, the Packers have an excellent trio of Za’Darius Smith, Preston Smith, and Rashan Gary. But there’s no doubt the pass rush took a step back last season.

Green Bay’s defense ranked 20th in the NFL for pass rush win rate, according to ESPN. Za’Darius Smith had another good year but was less consistent while Preston Smith took a big step back. Gary did improve late in the season, showing encouraging signs for 2021.

Green Bay will be banking on Preston Smith bouncing back to his 2019 form this year, but what if he doesn’t? Without Smith replicating his 2019 season, the pass rush was inconsistent for much of the year in ’20.

Something else to consider is depth. Beyond the top three, Green Bay doesn’t have much experience at edge rusher. It’s a premium position on defense and well worth adding talent here every offseason.

Do the Packers need to commit an early-round pick at edge rusher? No, but they should be open to strengthening the pass rush if an opportunity presents itself at some point during the draft. If they can find a long-term starter or key contributor, that could be crucial next year. Especially if the Packers move on from Preston Smith next offseason.