Packers: Predicting defensive line depth chart in 2022 season
The Green Bay Packers‘ defensive line took a big step forward in 2021, and this group can be even stronger this season.
The Packers have added Jarran Reed and Devonte Wyatt to the line.
Will the two new additions be starters in 2022?
Packers DL depth chart predictions in 2022
- Kenny Clark
- Jarran Reed
- Dean Lowry
- Devonte Wyatt
- T.J. Slaton
Kenny Clark leads the way. The former first-round pick is a star player for the Packers and has been voted to the Pro Bowl twice in the past three seasons.
There’s no reason to think Jarran Reed won’t become a starter instantly in Joe Barry’s defense.
He has played in 89 regular season games in his career, of which 80 he has started in.
Much like De’Vondre Campbell last year, Reed wasn’t brought in to add some depth, but to become an important player along the defensive line.
Predicting who will be a regular starter between Dean Lowry and Devonte Wyatt isn’t an easy choice.
To begin with, I think it will be Lowry. He has made 68 starts for the Packers in his career and is coming off his best season. His experience may give him the edge early on while Wyatt adjusts to the NFL.
But Green Bay invested a first-round pick in Wyatt, and that wasn’t so he could be a backup. Sooner than later, Wyatt will become a key part of this defense.
T.J. Slaton played on just under a quarter of the Packers’ defensive snaps last season, according to Pro Football Reference. He should make the roster, but opportunities on defense may be limited due to the great depth the Packers have.
If Green Bay keeps a sixth defensive lineman, it will likely be one of Jack Heflin or rookie Jonathan Ford. Special teams may be the key for that final roster spot, which could give Ford the edge.