The Green Bay Packers‘ faults were on fully display at the end of last season, as the team lost four games straight after All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons tore his ACL in December.
And whilst the focus will be on the secondary in the draft, with many Packers writers projecting the team to select one of the many capable boundary corners with the 52nd overall pick this coming April, the run defense is arguably the bigger issue.
The Baltimore Ravens ran the ball down Green Bay’s throat during their bout in Week 17 win 41-24, with Derrick Henry alone tearing up the defense to the tune of 216 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns off of 36 carries, in a game that Packers fans will not be quick to forget.
Packers Suggested to Explore Move for Lions DT
So with free agency on the horizon, A to Z Sports’ Wendell Ferreira proposes that the Packers make a move for former Detroit Lions defensive tackle D.J. Reader to help shore up the interior of their defensive line.
“Defensive tackle is one of the biggest needs on the Green Bay Packersâ roster â especially someone who can reasonably play run defense. And a contract management style from a divisional rival could help them get a solid player soon.” Ferreira wrote. “On Friday, defensive tackle DJ Readerâs contract with the Detroit Lions voided. That means it will leave behind $3.729 million in dead money no matter what, and Reader is slated to hit free agency in March.”
Ferreira argues that Reader would work well in the Packers’ 4-3 scheme that allows versatility between the nose and 3-technique.
And even though he is not quite the Pro Bowl-quality (although he was perennially snubbed for that specific recognition) player he was a few years ago, he can add strength and depth in defending the run and getting to the quarterback.
Packers Would Benefit From Veteran Leadership Up Front
He also adds some veteran experience and leadership to a position whose most senior member, Devonte Wyatt, is still on his rookie deal.
“DJ Reader could be an ideal scheme fit for the Packers, transitioning to Jonathan Gannonâs defensive philosophy. The veteran has alignment versatility â heâs played 3,171 career snaps in the B-gap and 1,510 snaps at true nose tackle. He can also play over the tackle.”
“Reader has shown some signs of regression over the past two years after a few dominant seasons for the Cincinnati Bengals, but heâs still an above average interior rusher and a solid run defender.”
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