Packers 2023 offseason position review: Inside linebackers

The Green Bay Packers surprisingly invested heavily at the inside linebacker position last offseason, something they haven’t done often in recent years.

Not only did they give De’Vondre Campbell a big extension after his All-Pro season, but they also selected Quay Walker with the 22nd overall pick of the draft.

Are the Packers set at linebacker moving forward?

2022 season review

Campbell didn’t play at an All-Pro level consistently in 2022, but he was still a quality starter in the middle of Joe Barry’s defense.

He made 96 tackles, six tackles for loss, three pass defenses, and two interceptions, including a pick-six. Campbell played in 13 games, starting each of them.

Rookie Quay Walker showed a ton of potential, most notably with his coverage ability. Walker defended seven passes, forced three fumbles, and made a team-high 121 tackles.

But he also got lost in some games, which is to be expected for a rookie. Walker was also ejected twice, including in the season-ending loss to the Detroit Lions.

Walker still has areas to improve and needs to become more consistent, but he made a lot of great plays and can become a key player for the Packers.

What’s next in 2023?

Inside linebacker is one of the few positions where we should expect continuity for the Packers.

Krys Barnes is a restricted free agent, so Green Bay will need to make a decision on whether it wants to bring him back. Eric Wilson impressed on special teams and is also a free agent. The Packers should re-sign him.

De’Vondre Campbell still has four years remaining on his contract, and Quay Walker enters year two on his rookie deal.

Campbell is an important starter, and Walker’s development will be key.

We shouldn’t expect too many changes at inside linebacker this offseason. After last year’s moves, the Packers are well set at the position.