Packers 2022 draft preview: Edge rusher a top priority

Wide receiver might be the top need for the Green Bay Packers in the 2022 NFL Draft, but edge rusher isn’t far behind.

Green Bay has a strong starting duo in Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, but that’s about all this defense has at the position currently.

Adding more pass-rush talent this month is a must.

Free agency recap

As expected, the Packers released Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith to create cap space. Smith has since signed with the division-rival Minnesota Vikings.

While Green Bay hasn’t made any outside additions at the position, the team did give Preston Smith a new four-year extension which keeps him under contract until the end of the 2026 season.

Need in the draft?

Yes.

Green Bay doesn’t necessarily need to find a Day 1 starter in the draft, but it should take advantage of a strong edge rusher class to strengthen the depth behind Rashan Gary and Preston Smith.

If the Packers don’t sign a veteran edge rusher, they should bring in multiple players at the position in the draft and should consider using an early-round pick.

Draft outlook

Drafting a pass rusher at No. 22 overall could absolutely be in play for Green Bay.

We can all but guarantee that Aidan Hutchinson, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Travon Walker, and Jermaine Johnson II will be long gone before then. George Karlaftis could also be gone.

But if a player like Karlaftis falls to the Packers’ spot, it would be no surprise if they picked him. There will be opportunities to add talent at wide receiver later on, but Green Bay might not want to pass up the opportunity to land a potential future starter at a premium position like edge rusher.

Potential targets at No. 28 overall include Minnesota’s Boye Mafe and Michigan’s David Ojabo, although it’s unclear whether the Packers would take Ojabo due to his injury. Ojabo could miss his entire rookie season.

Edge rusher should be near the top of the to-do list entering draft weekend.