Packers 2022 draft preview: Can defensive line become a strength?

Could the Green Bay Packers‘ defensive line become a strength in 2022?

Green Bay’s front three is led by Pro Bowler Kenny Clark. The defensive line played particularly well down the stretch last season and in the playoffs.

With an addition early in the 2022 NFL Draft, this could become an area of strength on defense for the Packers.

Free agency recap

The Packers signed free-agent Jarran Reed to a one-year deal. They are yet to re-sign Tyler Lancaster, who remains a free agent.

Need in the draft?

Maybe.

If the Packers don’t make another move along the defensive line, they should be fine. Clark is a star. Reed is a solid signing. Dean Lowry had his best season in 2021. TJ Slaton showed potential in his rookie season.

With this group, Green Bay has plenty of talent along the defensive line.

However, this doesn’t mean they shouldn’t add another defensive lineman if they get the opportunity. An early-round prospect like Travis Jones would help this defensive line take a huge step in the right direction.

Draft outlook

While there are a few potential first-round candidates at defensive tackle, we can probably take a couple off the board.

Georgia’s Jordan Davis could be gone inside the top 15. His teammate, Devonte Wyatt, could potentially be available at No. 22, although he recently turned 24 years old. The Packers tend to draft younger players in the first round.

One name to potentially watch is UConn’s Travis Jones.

Many mock drafts have Jones falling to Day 2, but he should be in first-round consideration. It would be no surprise at all if his name gets called late in the first round. And who knows, maybe the Packers make the pick.

Jones could end up being the best defensive lineman in the class. He could dominate at nose tackle in Joe Barry’s defense and make life a whole lot easier for Kenny Clark.