Yesterday I went over three offensive players primed for a breakout season.
The Packers have a lot of fresh new talent, and today, it’s the defense’s turn.
The Packer defense has had quite the journey over the last three years. In 2019, Green Bay was 14th in total passing yards allowed, 23rd in total rushing. 2020 was an improvement for the team, finishing 7th in passing defense, 14th in rushing defense. 2021 showed another improvement, as they nearly cracked the top 10 in rushing and passing defense. After three years of steady improvement, last year being the first under a new coordinator, the Packers look ready to take another step on that side of the ball this year. Here are three players that aim to contribute to that process.
Jaire Alexander, CB
Going into 2021, fourth year corner Jaire Alexander was considered one of the best defensive backs in the league. 2020 was his best year so far, giving up just 371 yards thru the air over 15 games on just 41 completions. After missing 13 games in 2021 due to a shoulder injury, Alexander is no doubt looking to get back to his old ways this season. Alexander signed a four year, $84 million dollar contract extension in May. Armed with a new commitment to his team, expect the young Pro-Bowl cornerback to lead the defense to another solid season.
Quay Walker, LB
The 22nd pick of the 2022 NFL draft, Quay Walker is looking to make an immediate impact for the Packer defense. Fresh off a national championship season with the Georgia Bulldogs, Walker is no stranger to success. In the CFP championship game against Alabama, Walker led the team in tackles, and set a career high in QB pressures. Coming from an SEC powerhouse, he performs best when the lights are brightest – he’s sure to get plenty of that in Lambeau. Will Walker have a Micah Parsons-like rookie year? Perhaps not, but expect him to come in and fit in nicely right away.
https://twitter.com/BrentRollinsPhD/status/1484916340863512576?s=20&t=L4KwBkY66dLLWsEeNwIoyQ
Devonte Wyatt, DL
Another Bulldog, and the 28th pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, lineman Devonte Wyatt fills a significant need for the Packers. Green Bay has been struggling with depth on the defensive line for multiple seasons due to injuries. Adding a young, talented lineman next to veteran Kenny Clark shores up the line and reduces Clark’s workload. In Georgia’s championship season, Wyatt earned a selection to the Coaches’ All-SEC 1st team, and the AP All-SEC 2nd team. At 6’3, 304 lbs, look for Wyatt and Clark to clog up the middle against the run. He’s got great speed, mobility and burst for a guy his size, and a good nose for the ball. The Packers have struggled to stop the run in years past, but Wyatt may be the solution.
https://twitter.com/BookOfEli_NFL/status/1519877833190895616?s=20&t=L4KwBkY66dLLWsEeNwIoyQ