Listening to Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley earlier in the week, you could hear his excitement to watch Brenton Cox Jr.
The second-year pass-rusher hadn't played a single snap all season, but following the Preston Smith trade, he finally got his opportunity on Sunday against the Chicago Bears. Cox needed less than two quarters to prove why the Packers believe in his potential.
In the first half alone, Cox made his first career sack and two tackles for loss, including a huge run stop on D'Andre Swift that cost the Bears three yards.
Cox has patiently waited for his opportunity, and the Smith trade allows the Packers to get him on the field. We're already seeing why Hafley said he was "really, really excited" to see Cox play. He has been arguably the Packers' best defensive player in the first half against the Bears.
Here is Cox's first career sack:
BOOM.#GBvsCHI pic.twitter.com/jPJuWrw8nt
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 17, 2024
Packers' decision to trade Preston Smith is already looking good
There were multiple reasons for trading Smith. The veteran requested a trade due to his struggle to adjust to Hafley's 4-3 system, but the move also made financial sense for the Packers. Smith hadn't produced consistent pressure, and Green Bay will feel the salary-cap benefits in upcoming seasons.
An added bonus is allowing young players like Cox and Arron Mosby to get more opportunities.
The Packers signed Cox as an undrafted free agent in 2023, and he secured a spot on the 53-man roster after a promising training camp. Cox showed some signs of his potential with a sack in the preseason. Opportunities have been few and far between in the regular season, but his development gave the team confidence to part ways with a veteran.
The pass rush needed a spark, and Cox has quickly made an impact both against the pass and run.
Green Bay hasn't had its way entirely against Chicago, especially when it comes to stopping Caleb Williams' rushing ability—and ridiculous penalties don't help—but Cox has been a rare bright spot.
Hopefully, it's a sign of what's to come as the defense adjusts to life after Smith. The Packers are among the best teams in the league at drafting and developing young players (including undrafted free agents), and Cox has made the perfect start.