Should the Packers draft defense first?
The Green Bay Packers are still fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive in Week 15. But the offseason could be closer than most fans expected in early September. Joe Barry’s defense is a significant reason the Packers are 5-8 before their Monday Night Football game against the Los Angeles Rams. One NFL insider thinks the Packers draft will focus on the defense.
Todd McShay with ESPN recently released his first-round predictions for the 2023 NFL Draft. McShay has the Packers picking at the 14th position in the first round. He predicted the Packers would take Clemson defensive end, Myles Murphy:
“The Packers took a step backward this season and have a bunch of needs, including safety, receiver, offensive line, tight end and edge rusher. I’m going best available in Murphy, my No. 8 prospect. He brings burst, power and bend off the edge, and he’d prove versatile in Green Bay’s scheme. Rashan Gary will be coming off a torn ACL next season, and the Packers have managed only 24 sacks this season (tied for 26th). Murphy has the tools to be a force in the NFL.”
Murphy would help with the pass rush
The Packers need more help with their pass rush. Rashan Gary is a beast as an Edge rusher, but the Packers haven’t been as effective rushing the pass after his injury. Murphy would be a great player to pair with Gary when he returns next season. Murphy was a highly decorated defender in college. He won Freshman All-American and First-Team All-ACC honors during his time at Clemson.
Murphy has 18.5 sacks as a Tiger in three seasons. He also had 36 tackles for loss. Murphy would be a great addition to a defense that needs more stops behind the line of scrimmage.
Here are highlights of Murphy at Clemson, courtesy of Prince Highlights:
