Anytime an undrafted free agent can make the final 53-man roster, it’s a surprise. But maybe in the case of Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Nazir Stackhouse, it’s a bit less stunning.
According to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, Stackhouse is expected to remain on the roster through Tuesday as a member of the Packers’ initial 53-man roster. Stackhouse was signed as an undrafted free agent out of Georgia, where he was a two-time All-SEC selection.
The 327-pounder figures to be the primary backup for Kenny Clark at nose tackle this season. Clark hasn’t missed a game in over three seasons, but the veteran will turn 30 this season, so some rotational snaps with Stackhouse may be in order.
Packers keep Nazir Stackhouse on 53-man roster to take impressive UDFA streak to 20 years
Retaining Stackhouse ensures Green Bay’s 20-year streak of at least one undrafted free agent making the 53-man roster lives on for another season.
Stackhouse had four tackles this preseason, capping an impressive summer for the 23-year-old rookie. Back at Georgia, he racked up 96 tackles in five seasons in Kirby Smart’s defense. He had just three sacks, but he wasn’t brought to Green Bay to primarily get after the quarterback.
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The Packers still have decisions to make on the defensive line outside of Stackhouse. Sixth-round rookie Warren Brinson indicated on his Instagram that he has made the 53-man roster. Former sixth-round pick Karl Brooks had a solid showing during the preseason and should be in line to back up Devonte Wyatt at defensive tackle. As a result, Colby Wooden’s spot could come down to roster space, whether Green Bay can hold six defensive linemen or not.
While Stackhouse may not see the field a ton in his rookie season, he’ll still get the opportunity to learn behind one of the league’s top nose tackles. Still, coming from an elite program such as Georgia puts some expectations on him to learn quickly and be ready whenever he is eventually called upon.
In the meantime, he’ll provide solid depth on the interior defensive line while the Packers sort out the rest of the defense as the league rosters take shape ahead of the 2025 NFL campaign.