Packers defense pre-draft depth chart: Which positions need help?
After making projections for the Green Bay Packers’ offensive depth chart ahead of the draft, it’s time for the defense.
Green Bay’s defense put together a dominant playoff performance versus the San Francisco 49ers. With a couple of offseason additions, this unit could have a very good 2022 season.
With the draft less than two weeks away, here’s the Packers’ current depth at each position.
Defensive line
Kenny Clark, Jarran Reed, Dean Lowry, TJ Slaton, Jack Heflin
Green Bay improved its defensive line by signing free-agent Jarran Reed. The Packers currently have a good starting three of Kenny Clark, Reed, and Dean Lowry.
No longer a top position of need, but the Packers may still strengthen here in the draft.
Inside linebacker
De’Vondre Campbell, Krys Barnes, Ty Summers, Isaiah McDuffie, Ray Wilborn
Re-signing All-Pro De’Vondre Campbell was among the most important moves the Packers made this offseason. Similar to the defensive line, this isn’t a major position of need, but it also wouldn’t be surprising if the team added another linebacker on Day 3.
Krys Barnes played around half of the defensive snaps last season, so it’s not like the Packers never have two inside linebackers on the field.
Outside linebacker
Rashan Gary, Preston Smith, Jonathan Garvin, Tipa Galeai, La’Darius Hamilton, Randy Ramsey
Green Bay has its two starters in place with Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, but improving the depth behind them should be a top priority in the draft.
The Packers should use an early-round pick at edge rusher, and then double-down at the position either later in the draft or by signing a free agent.
Cornerback
Jaire Alexander, Eric Stokes, Rasul Douglas, Shemar Jean-Charles, Kabion Ento, Keisean Nixon, Kiondre Thomas
Green Bay’s cornerback trio of Jaire Alexander, Eric Stokes, and Rasul Douglas is among the best in the league.
There are no major concerns at cornerback, but there are some questions. Do the Packers know which of the three is best suited to play in the slot? Chandon Sullivan is no longer on the team.
Is Shemar Jean-Charles ready for a bigger role?
The Packers may add some cornerback depth in the draft. Another option would be to draft a versatile defensive back capable of playing both safety and slot corner.
Safety
Adrian Amos, Darnell Savage, Vernon Scott, Innis Gaines, Shawn Davis
Similar to other positions on defense, the Packers have their starters set but a lack of depth behind them. It’s also important to note that both Adrian Amos and Darnell Savage will be free agents in 2023.
Safety might be the Packers’ third biggest need behind wide receiver and edge rusher. Green Bay needs to find its No. 3 safety, a player who could potentially replace one of the starters in 2023.