5 breakout candidates for the Packers in 2022 season

4. DT T.J. Slaton

Another second-year player to watch is defensive lineman T.J. Slaton. While he may not become a regular starter anytime soon given the team’s excellent depth, Slaton could still have a breakout season.

While a lot of focus will go on Kenny Clark, Jarran Reed, Dean Lowry, and first-round pick Devonte Wyatt, don’t forget about Slaton.

He was unstoppable against the 49ers in the preseason opener. The stat sheet only shows one tackle, but 49ers offensive linemen had all sorts of problems trying to stop him.

He seemed to generate pressure on almost every play. According to Pro Football Focus, Slaton had a pass-rush win rate of 36.4%, the highest of the game.

Slaton is a strong run defender but has also shown plenty of interior pass-rush potential this summer. If he can build on his performances during training camp and the preseason, he should see an increase in snaps during the regular season.

Green Bay’s defensive line rotation could be unstoppable. It doesn’t matter how many games Slaton starts. If he plays well, he will get plenty of opportunities to impact games.

A fifth-round pick in 2021, Slaton showed flashes of potential as a rookie, but he looks an improved player this summer. A big season could await the second-year defensive lineman.