The Green Bay Packers have invested some elite resources into their pass rush in recent years. Since 2019, Green Bay has used a first round draft pick on Rashan Gary, Devonte Campbell, and Lukas Van Ness. They’ve also extended Kenny Clark and used a few mid round draft picks on Colby Wooden and Kingsley Enagbare.
However, their pass rush left a lot to be desired in 2024. That is sure to change in 2025.
“Yes, Immediately” Packers Prove They’re Improving The Pass Rush During The Off-Season After Latest Move (Report)
According to NFL.com, Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur has turned to Aaron Whitecotton after letting defensive line coach Jason Rebovich go:
LaFleur didn’t have to look far to get an endorsement on Whitecotton. When LaFleur’s close friend, Robert Saleh, became coach of the Jets in 2021, Saleh hired Whitecotton to be his defensive line coach. Saleh spent the end of the season working with LaFleur.
Whitecotton’s defensive lines have sacked the quarterback.
In 2022, the Jets’ defensive line produced 45 sacks – seventh-most in the NFL – and Quinnen Williams was named first-team All-Pro as the Jets finished fourth in total defense.
In 2023, the Jets’ defensive line delivered 48 sacks – once again seventh in the NFL – to help spearhead the league’s third-ranked defense.
In 2024, the Jets fired Saleh – which is why Whitecotton is available – and the defensive line wasn’t as productive, though 2023 first-round pick Will McDonald went from three sacks and five quarterback hits as a rookie to 10.5 sacks and 24 quarterback hits.
During the same period, Rashan Gary went from nine sacks and 22 quarterback hits to 7.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits for Green Bay.
The Jets’ Bryce Huff had 10 sacks in 2023, but the Eagles’ Bryce Huff had 2.5 and a spot on the bench in 2024. Already, it is clear that Green Bay is going to use resources on their pass rush. Something that is much needed:
TEAM SCK SEASON GP TKL AST COMB SCKY INT INT YDS INT TD FF FR FR TD 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
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