3 Packers who need expanded roles after victory over Rams

T.J. Slaton

T.J. Slaton started to shine in the final few games in 2022 when the Packers defense demonstrated improvement.

He entered the game with the Rams coming off a week eight breakout performance against Minnesota, where he became the first Packers defensive lineman to stack up nine tackles and two tackles for loss since Ryan Pickett in 2010.

His seven defensive stops (tackles that constitute a "failure" for the offense) against Minnesota were the most by any Packers defensive lineman this season and the most since Kenny Clark also posted seven in week three of 2018.

Slaton has yet to register over 65% of defensive snaps in a game this season, but he's arguably been the Packers' leading run stuffer. In a defense desperately needing contributions from more players against the run, it's time his share of snaps to increase.

Week nine marked only the first time he didn't record at least four tackles after logging at least 60% of defensive snaps. Even so, the 330-pounder's athleticism, tenacity, and effort shine on tape play after play. His 68.3 PFF grade on the season is ahead of Kenny Clark and fellow breakout defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt.

Slaton's contributions as a top run defender in Green Bay constitute an increased snap share for the remainder of the season.