Packers 2021 roster preview: Breakout season for Darnell Savage?

When the Green Bay Packers drafted Darnell Savage in the first round two years ago, and traded up to do so, his ability to make game-changing plays was a highlight and a reason to be excited.

We saw this from Savage occasionally in his first one-and-a-half seasons, but in the second half of 2020, he played at an All-Pro level.

Will this be a breakout season for Savage?

2020 stats

Savage started in 15 games for the Packers last season, making 75 tackles, 12 pass defenses, and four interceptions.

2020 review

Savage made a solid start to the season, but he saved his best football for the final eight games. In that time, he made 10 of his 12 pass defenses and all four of his interceptions.

Savage was excellent in coverage. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed a passer rating of just 63.0 in his coverage.

Overall, it was a great second season for Savage, who showed just how talented he is in the second half of the year.

Will he make the roster?

Yes. He’s started every game he’s played over the past two seasons and that won’t be changing anytime soon.

What to expect in 2021

If Savage’s performances in the final eight games of the regular season are a sign of what’s to come this upcoming year, this Packers secondary is going to be scary.

Savage did play well in the first half of the year but he was a completely different player later on. He was regularly getting his hands to the ball, intercepting four passes and breaking up many others.

He’s the perfect partner for Adrian Amos at safety and I’m excited to see the role he has in a new system under Joe Barry.

Savage has shown Pro Bowl potential throughout his career, but his performances late last season were at an All-Pro level. If he can continue that into 2021, he’ll have a similar third year to Jaire Alexander and be up there with the best in the league at his position.