Coaching Changes and New Defensive System
The Packers’ defense was labeled “the problem” by many after the 2023-24 season. Defensive coordinator Joe Barry was let go by Head Coach Matt LaFleur, who brought in Jeff Hafley from Boston College to lead a new 4-3 defense.
A 4-3 system typically requires different athletes than a 3-4, as defensive ends in a 4-3 are usually heavier than 3-4 outside linebackers. Often, this leads to personnel changes through the draft, trades, or both. However, the Packers made no significant changes, keeping their 3-4 outside linebackers and transitioning them into Hafley’s 4-3 system.
Preston Smith, the Packers’ most experienced 3-4 outside linebacker and a team leader, requested to leave midway through the season. Teams often struggle when a defensive leader fails to adapt to a new scheme.
The Packers traded Smith for a seventh-round draft pick and leaned on young, inexperienced defensive ends. First-round picks Lucas Van Ness and Rashan Gary were now starters.
Gary was recovering from a serious knee injury that required surgery in 2022, while Van Ness was a raw talent, drafted as a true junior who had never started a college game. Alongside them were Kingsley Enagbare and Brenton Cox Jr., who had to adjust to new roles.
Secondary Overhaul
Another issue from the 2022 defense was poor run support from the secondary. Darnell Savage struggled with tackling and angles, exposing weaknesses that made him a liability. General Manager Brian Gutekunst made the tough call to replace Savage with Xavier McKinney, a move that paid off as McKinney played at an All-Pro level.
Meanwhile, Savage became a starter for the Jacksonville Jaguars, whose defense ranked 32nd in pass defense and 31st in yards allowed.
The Packers’ defense started slow but improved as the season progressed. They ranked 5th in total yards allowed, 6th in points allowed, 13th in passing yards allowed, and 7th in rushing yards allowed. Their run defense, previously a weakness, showed significant improvement against top rushers like Saquon Barkley, Aaron Jones, and Christian McCaffrey.
Only the Bears managed more than 140 rushing yards against the Packers, with Caleb Williams and Andre Swift combining for a strong performance in their first matchup. By their second encounter, the Packers held the Bears to just 83 rushing yards.
Defensive Takeaways
One of the biggest improvements was in defensive takeaways. By Week 3, the Packers’ defense had matched their total interceptions from the 2023 season. They finished 2024 ranked 7th in interceptions with 17.
McKinney was a standout with eight interceptions, while Jaire Alexander, despite missing half the season, added two. However, the defense’s interception rate dropped when Alexander was sidelined. After his injury, the team managed only one interception in their next three games.
Defensive Line and Run Game
The defensive line, now including defensive ends, deserves recognition for its improved run defense. While linebackers typically lead in tackles, the defensive line’s role is to engage offensive linemen, allowing linebackers to make plays. T.J. Slayton had his best season, with 30 tackles that, while below his 2023 high of 50, showed his ability to anchor the line.
Kenny Clark’s 37 tackles and one sack marked a drop from his career highs but contributed to the line’s overall performance. Other contributors like Devonte Wyatt and Colby Wooden maintained or slightly improved their numbers.
At defensive end, Rashan Gary led with 7.5 sacks and 26 tackles, while Van Ness totaled three sacks and 33 tackles, showing solid run defense. Kingsley Enagbare added 4.5 sacks and 39 tackles, while Brenton Cox Jr., with limited opportunities, posted four sacks.
There was criticism of the defense’s sack totals, but in their wins, consistent pressure on the quarterback often made the difference. In losses, it was the lack of pressure, rather than sack numbers, that hurt them.
Linebacker Play
Blitzing linebackers made significant contributions to the pass rush. Keisean Nixon had three sacks, Quay Walker added 2.5, and Edgerrin Cooper contributed 3.5. Cooper’s impact was notable, particularly when Walker was injured, as he excelled in stopping the run and disrupting plays. Cooper’s 13 tackles for loss led the team, despite starting only four games. Walker, in contrast, still struggled with diagnosing plays quickly but showed some improvement in his second year.
Secondary and Cornerbacks
The safety position looks solid heading into 2025. McKinney remains under contract, and rookies Bullard and Evan Williams showed promise. At cornerback, questions remain. Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine started down the stretch, but former first-round pick Eric Stokes appears to be on his way out after failing to record a single pass breakup in 2024. Jaire Alexander, while still a top-tier cover corner, has become less reliable due to injuries and declining tackling ability.
Looking Ahead
For 2025, three areas need attention: acquiring an elite pass rusher, determining if Walker can complement Cooper, and addressing cornerback depth. While Gutekunst may draft another corner or two, fans should temper expectations for a first-round wide receiver pick. Green Bay’s defense has laid a strong foundation, but adding key pieces will be vital to building on this year’s success.
