Packers: 5 young defensive players who could shine in playoffs

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SEPTEMBER 13: Jaire Alexander #23 of the Green Bay Packers intercepts a pass intended for Adam Thielen #19 of the Minnesota Vikings in the second quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 13, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) /

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SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 05: Head coach Matt LaFleur of the Green Bay Packers talks with Krys Barnes #51 before the start of a game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on November 05, 2020 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

4. Krys Barnes

It’s been a bumpy season for Krys Barnes who has battled injuries and poor play as he’s waxed and waned throughout the rotation at inside linebacker. However, it appears he’s hitting his stride late in the season as he’s played 31 or more snaps in each of the past three games.

Although Barnes’ PFF grade (he ranks 79th out of 87 eligible inside linebackers) is nothing to write home about, he has been playing well against the run–the Packers’ biggest weakness. Barnes appears to be pushing starting backer Christian Kirksey for the lead gig and could overtake him yet this season.

An undrafted free agent, Barnes has made a huge splash on the Packers’ defense this season. And at just 22-years-old, he could become a full-time starter next year no matter who Green Bay brings in. But first things first–his potential to impact the playoff run is huge for the Packers.

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