Packers: Big opportunity for TJ Slaton vs. Ravens in Week 15

A big opportunity awaits for Packers rookie TJ Slaton in Week 15.

Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark has been one of the key players along the defensive line for the Green Bay Packers this season.

Clark is likely to miss this week’s game versus the Baltimore Ravens as he is on the reserve/COVID-19 list. That should lead to more snaps for rookie TJ Slaton.

Slaton has been active for all 13 games this season but he’s yet to make a start. That could possibly change on Sunday afternoon.

This year, Slaton has made 16 tackles, one sack, and two quarterback hits. Not bad considering he’s had a backup role for much of the season.

According to Pro Football Reference, Slaton has played on 152 defensive snaps this season, which works out at 18.36 percent.

If Clark is out, the Packers will be missing yet another star defensive player. They’ve already been without Za’Darius Smith and Jaire Alexander for almost the entire season. They could be without Clark, who has started all 13 games and played on 79.11 percent of the team’s defensive snaps, more than any other defensive lineman for the Packers.

Green Bay’s defensive line will be tested against a Baltimore offense that likes to run the ball. Although it’s worth noting that Lamar Jackson’s status for the game will have a significant impact. Even if he is active, it will depend on how close to 100 percent he is.

Still, it’s a huge opportunity for Slaton to show what he can do. More snaps will be on offer and if he puts in a strong performance, he’ll force the Packers’ coaches to take note.

This could be exactly the opportunity the rookie defensive tackle has been waiting for. It will be interesting to see how well he plays up against the Ravens’ defensive line on Sunday.