Packers: Power ranking NFC North position groups in 2022 season

Defensive line/edge rushers

1. Packers

The group can be dominant. Green Bay has an excellent starting lineup of Pro Bowler Kenny Clark, Jarran Reed, and Dean Lowry along the defensive line, with Rashan Gary and Preston Smith at edge rusher.

T.J. Slaton looked great this summer, and the Packers also invested a first-round pick along the defensive line by drafting Devonte Wyatt.

The Packers’ defensive line could be the best in the NFL.

2. Vikings

If Za’Darius Smith and Danielle Hunter stay healthy, the Vikings’ pass rush could be one of the league’s best. The two former Pro Bowlers are among the best edge rushers in the NFL. Minnesota also has a solid defensive line. Dalvin Tomlinson has six sacks and 17 quarterback hits over the past two seasons.

3. Lions

The Lions’ defensive line remains a work in progress, but they did strengthen their pass rush by drafting Aidan Hutchinson second overall this past spring. Hutchinson should make an impact immediately for the Lions’ defense.

4. Bears

Again, the Bears are fourth.

The focus is on the players Chicago lost. Star pass rusher Khalil Mack and defensive lineman Akiem Hicks are gone. The Bears will need another Pro Bowl season from edge rusher Robert Quinn. He had 18.5 sacks last season.