
Heading into the 2023 season, the Green Bay Packers are stronger at some positions than anticipated on defense. There were some major concerns about the inexperience and depth along the defensive line, specifically.
Other than Kenny Clark, there wasn’t an established player on the group. But, the team has to feel better after seeing Devonte Wyatt, TJ Slaton and rookies Karl Brooks and Colby Wooden in training camp and preseason.
The same could be said about the pass-rushing group. The injury to Rashan Gary last season showed a lack of depth and production behind him on the depth chart. But, what was once a weakness has turned into a strength.
Preston Smith, JJ Enagbare, Justin Hollins and rookies Lukas Van Ness and Brenton Cox Jr. make up a deep, talented group. They showed throughout the preseason and training camp they can create some havoc in the backfield.
The cornerback group is so strong, the Packers opted to keep only four players on the initial 53-man roster. Eric Stokes remains on the PUP list, meaning Jaire Alexander, Rasul Douglas, Keisean Nixon and rookie Carrington Valentine will be holding it down in the early going.
For how confident the Packers are in the cornerbacks, they are unsure about safety. No one really stepped up to claim the starting spots, as they will likely go to the incumbents, Darnell Savage Jr. and Rudy Ford.
Jonathan Owens, Dallin Leavitt and rookie Anthony Johnson Jr. provide some depth, but if the opportunity to truly upgrade presented itself, the Packers would jump at the opportunity. Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report has suggested just that, saying the New England Patriots should trade Jalen Mills to Green Bay.
“The Patriots were reportedly going to cut Mills this offseason. They changed their mind, moved him to safety and signed him to a one-year deal.
The only problem is that the Patriots have answers there too. The Packers have a few questions on defense. Depth at corner and the starting safety situation are two of the biggest ones.
Mills could be an answer on both fronts. If the starting trio of Jaire Alexander, Eric Stokes and Rasul Douglas have an injury, Mills would be versatile enough to replace any of them. If they remain healthy, he could be a threat in their starting safety race.”
That kind of versatility is something that defensive coordinator Joe Barry would love to add to his unit. Mills can fill a number of spots on the roster, enabling the front office to make some moves should needs arise at other positions.
Heading into his eighth season in the NFL, Mills would bring some veteran experience and leadership to a safety position that seems like a rudderless ship at times. A Super Bowl champion in 2019 with the Philadelphia Eagles, a young Packers team would benefit from that kind of infusion of veteran know-how.