Packers 2023 offseason position review: Defensive line

Did the Green Bay Packers‘ defensive line meet expectations this season? Do they need to add more talent up front on defense in the coming months?

Before then, the Packers must decide which free-agent defensive linemen they want to offer new deals to.

Success on defense starts up front. After investing in the defensive line last offseason, the Packers expected improvements in 2022.

2022 season review

Green Bay signed Jarran Reed in free agency and drafted Devonte Wyatt in the first round.

Despite that, stopping the run remained a major issue for Joe Barry’s defense, and that starts up front.

Reed started 14 games and had a solid season, making 2.5 sacks and 14 quarterback hits.

One of the Packers’ biggest mistakes was not giving Wyatt more opportunities.

They insisted on sticking with veteran Dean Lowry, who was unable to back up his career year from 2021. When Wyatt did play, he impressed, making 1.5 sacks and three quarterback hits.

He made Pro Football Focus’ 2022 All-Rookie Team, with PFF’s Michael Renner noting that Wyatt “looked like a real playmaker down the stretch.”

There were positives, such as Wyatt’s performances late in the season, but it was a disappointing year for the Packers’ defensive line overall.

What’s next in 2023?

Kenny Clark will continue to lead the way along the defensive line but, once again, the Packers may need to find him some help.

Jarran Reed and Dean Lowry are both unrestricted free agents this spring. Green Bay could bring Reed back on a one-year deal, but it seems unlikely Lowry will be re-signed.

It should lead to an expanded role for Devonte Wyatt in his second season. He showed potential in year one.

But the Packers may need to add more depth along the defensive line in the coming months, whether that’s through free agency or in the draft.