The Green Bay Packers showed grit in 2024, finishing with an 11-6 record despite a brief setback when Jordan Love was sidelined. However, while their offense thrived, ranking 7th in the league, the defense—despite ranking 4th in total yards allowed—still has glaring weaknesses. With both pass coverage and quarterback pressure being critical issues, the Packers are zeroing in on an explosive defensive overhaul as they head into the 2025 offseason, with the NFL Draft as their key battleground.
Green Bay is loaded with talent on defense—cornerbacks Jaire Alexander and Eric Stokes, and defensive ends Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness. However, these units haven’t been dominant, particularly in terms of pass rush. Gary and Van Ness have failed to turn up the heat on opposing quarterbacks, and the trade of Preston Smith only created more holes in the defensive line. Additionally, Alexander has battled injuries, while Stokes has yet to make a significant impact since 2022.
As they move into the draft, the Packers’ biggest needs are crystal clear: cornerback (CB), defensive end (DE), linebacker (LB), and offensive line (OL). With the 23rd pick in the 2025 draft, Green Bay has the opportunity to secure an elite player who can make an immediate difference.
Top CB options could include Notre Dame’s Benjamin Morrison, Texas’ Jahdae Barron, or East Carolina’s Shavon Revel. As for DEs, players like Marshall’s Mike Green and Georgia’s Mykel Williams could add an explosive edge presence. Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer, a projected second-round pick, is another intriguing option to fill the pass-rushing void.
Beyond defense, the Packers might also look to bolster their linebacker corps and offensive line while adding depth to their running back room. GM Brian Gutekunst will have plenty of exciting prospects to choose from in this critical draft, potentially transforming the defense into one of the NFL’s most fearsome units.
