3 Big Things from Packers lackluster loss to the Vikings
By Paul Bretl
Big Thing No. 3: The Packers’ defensive depth is already being tested
On paper anyways, heading into this 2022 season, it was difficult to find a weak spot on this Green Bay Packers defense–or at least among the starters it was.
Led by Kenny Clark, this is the deepest interior defensive line group the Packers have had in some time. Meanwhile, Rashan Gary and Preston Smith were two of the most productive edge rushers in football last season, each finishing in the top-10 in pressures.
At linebacker is a ton of speed and athleticism with De’Vondre Campbell and Quay Walker, along with what should be the best cornerback trio in the game. On the back end, is the uber-reliable Adrian Amos and a potential breakout candidate in Darnell Savage.
However, as good as that group looks, the depth of this defense is a very big question mark, and unfortunately, because of injuries, it is going to be tested right away.
In addition to losing the game, the Packers also lost Krys Barnes with a leg injury, along with Quay Walker and Keisean Nixon to shoulder injuries. As of me writing this, we do not know the severity of the injuries.
Without Barnes and Walker, the Packers had to rely on Isaiah McDuffie, who did have a nice preseason and training camp, but he is still a former sixth-round pick entering Year 2 with minimal NFL experience. On the practice squad at linebacker is Ray Wilborn, who doesn’t have any regular season snaps, and if Green Bay is without Barnes and Walker for an extended period, they may be forced to add to the position.
The cornerback position was already a light one for the Packers as they rostered just five on the 53-man, and prior to Nixon’s injury, they had only four active in Minnesota. The next man up is Shemar Jean-Charles, who, like McDuffie, had a strong preseason but is inexperienced and was listed as inactive against the Vikings. If without Nixon moving forward, the Packers will have to call up either Benjie Franklin or Kiondre Thomas from the practice squad.
Next. Instant Takeaways from Week 1 Loss to Vikings. dark
These two positions are where the Green Bay Packers depth is being tested at the moment; however, safety and edge rusher remain a big concern as well. An injury at either of those positions will significantly hamper this defensive unit.