As the Green Bay Packers prepare to open training camp amidst a very strange offseason due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still some questions that the team will have to answer. Among them are, who will step up and help on the defensive line?
Kenny Clark is one of the best defensive tackles in the entire NFL. However, he could still use some help. Opposing offensive lines have been able to focus on shutting him down without consequence due to the lack of talent around him on the line.
If the Packers truly want to make a move to help Clark and their defensive line, they won’t have to look far. A familiar face is available in free agency that could be exactly what the doctor ordered for the Green Bay defense. That face would be former star lineman Mike Daniels, who had a rough season in 2019 after being released by the Packers and signing with the Detroit Lions.
During the 2019 season, Daniels ended up playing in just nine games. He racked up 10 total tackles and a sack. At 31 years old, some believe that Daniels is washed up, but the Packers should absolutely take a chance on him.
Let’s take a look at three reasons why Daniels coming back to the Packers would make perfect sense for both sides.
3. Mike Daniels Already Seems Interested In The Idea
After a rough departure from Green Bay last offseason, there might be some wondering whether or not Daniels would have any interest in coming back. Those doubts can be crossed out already, as Daniels has already made it clear that he is interested in the idea.
For those who missed it, Daniels opened up about the possibility of signing with the Packers this offseason.
Needless to say, the big man is open to the idea. Green Bay should reciprocate and see what it would take to bring him home.
2. He Would Pair Perfectly With Kenny Clark
Obviously, Daniels is the kind of player that could pair perfectly with any fellow defensive lineman. But, he has already played with Clark and the two worked perfectly together. Bringing him back after a one year absence would be an easy transition.
Daniels may not be the star that he once was, but he can still play a role. He would force opposing offensive lines to stay honest. Gone would be the struggles of Clark being the focus in the middle of the line.
Clark has still remained very productive even with the extra challenges he has had. Adding a player like Daniels would help Clark be an even bigger threat. This is a match made in heaven for the Packers, Daniels, and Clark.
1. Daniels Is Familiar With Everything in Green Bay
The major pro about bringing Mike Daniels home is the fact that he is already familiar with everything about Green Bay. He knows the defensive scheme, some of his would-be teammates, and the area itself. Nothing about this would be a difficult transition for Daniels.
If the Packers want to make an immediate impact move with little to no risk, signing Daniels would be the move to make.
Daniels and Clark would team up once again to wreak havoc on opposing offensive lines. His presence would also make life easier on both Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith. This move makes too much sense to not be strongly considered.
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