Edge rusher is one of the deepest positions in this year’s NFL draft. It is also a position the Green Bay Packers could look to address within the first two days.
The NFL Scouting Combine is set to begin this week, which means the Packers will get a much-needed close-up of the pass rushers. It’s vital for this team as they face a lot of uncertainty this offseason when it comes to their current edge group. Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith are scheduled to account for massive cap hits in 2022, which virtually guarantees that both players will either have to restructure or face getting released.
In all likelihood, Green Bay will only be able to keep one of the Smiths, and it will likely be Preston. Traditionally, the Packers like to get out in front of premier positions. They drafted Rashan Gary in the first round right after signing both Smiths in free agency. Gary is nearing the end of his rookie contract, and Preston will turn 30 next season. Therefore, expect Green Bay to prioritize the edge position in the draft. The team will hope to bring in a guy who can develop over the next couple of years and be a future running mate with Gary.
Now feels like the perfect time to highlight five prospects Green Bay should be monitoring when this year’s class of edge rushers take the field on Saturday in Indianapolis.