Green Bay Packers Football: Team Roster, Schedule & More

Tag: Packers defense

  • Jaire Alexander Future in Doubt as Packers Face Defensive Uncertainty

    Jaire Alexander Future in Doubt as Packers Face Defensive Uncertainty

    The Green Bay Packers are in a make or break offseason, and the future of star cornerback Jaire Alexander is hanging in the balance. As the team tries to find its defensive identity, Alexander’s contract situation is front and center for fans and analysts alike. Will he be a cornerstone of the defense, or is he gone? The answers to those questions will shape the direction of the franchise for years to come.

    The Financial Puzzle Surrounding Alexander

    At the heart of this is a financial problem that is the NFL contract negotiation puzzle. With $17.5 million due to Alexander, this year the Packers have a tough decision to make. His recent injury history has raised questions about whether his current deal reflects his on field value.

    For the Packers, restructuring his contract into a more team friendly deal seems like an increasingly viable option—one that would benefit both sides.

    For Alexander, taking a new deal might mean he stays in Green Bay and has long term security. For the Packers, it would free up cap space and allow them to allocate resources to other areas of need. But the balance between talent, market demand, and fiscal responsibility makes this a high stakes game of chess.

    Absence from Offseason Activities: A Sign or a Strategy?

    Alexander’s no-show at voluntary workouts has everyone wondering about his commitment to the team. But this might not be as bad as it seems. Communication lines are open between Alexander and the Packers and daily talks are helping both sides understand the situation.

    This is a strategic patience from both sides as they navigate the negotiation process.

    Josh Jacobs: The Offense’s Bright Spot

    While the defense is in flux, running back Josh Jacobs is the offense’s beacon of hope. After a 15 TD, 1,329 yard season, Jacobs is not taking anything for granted.

    He’s working on the little things to turn near-misses into explosive plays and his offseason mantra of focusing on the “little things” that separate the good from the great is proof of his drive for greatness.

    The Bigger Picture for the Packers

    The Alexander contract situation and Jacobs’ improvement is the perfect microcosm of the Packers’ challenges and opportunities. As the team tries to shore up the defense and ride the offense, the outcomes of these individual stories will dictate the Packers’ path.

    With Jaire Alexander’s future in doubt, the Packers have to decide if they invest in a player who’s been a cornerstone of their defense or look elsewhere.

    A Turning Point for the Pack

    In the big chess game of NFL team building, the Packers are at a crossroads. How they handle Alexander’s contract and leverage Jacobs’ talent will tell us a lot about their priorities and vision .

    In the uncertainty and strategy, one thing is clear: the Packers are committed to growth and every move is calculated to get an edge.

  • Jadeveon Clowney Fires Back at Packers in the Loudest Way Possible

    Jadeveon Clowney Fires Back at Packers in the Loudest Way Possible

    When Jadeveon Clowney speaks, people listen—and his recent comments after being released by the Carolina Panthers have sent shockwaves through the NFL. The Green Bay Packers, in particular, should be paying close attention. Clowney didn’t mince words when addressing his future, and his message was loud and clear: he’s ready to prove himself again, and the Packers could be the perfect team to give him that chance.

    Clowney’s Bold Statement to the NFL

    After being released by the Panthers, Clowney told The Athletic he’s not done dominating on the field. He said:

    “I’m definitely gonna play well. You can mark my word on that,” Clowney said. “I played with a bunch of guys that was hurt this past year. And I ended up playing extremely well for them. So it is what it is. I can play the game. I can play football. There are 31 other teams. I just hope another team gives me that opportunity so I can prove myself again. I feel like I can do that.”

    Clowney wasn’t kidding. Despite the circumstances around him in Carolina, he had a great season. According to Pro Football Focus, his 44 pressures was second only to one Packers pass-rusher (Rashan Gary, 47)—and he did it in three fewer games. His 5.5 sacks would’ve been second on the Packers’ roster, as would his 11 quarterback hits.

    In 2023 alone, Clowney had 9.5 sacks—more than any Packers defender last season. He’s proven himself, and he’s determined to prove doubters wrong.

    Why the Packers Need Clowney

    The Packers’ pass rush has been a mess, and Clowney could be the solution. They added Barryn Sorrell in the fourth round of the draft, but relying solely on new defensive line coach DeMarcus Covington to fix things is a risk. Lukas Van Ness, their first-round pick from 2023, hasn’t lived up to expectations yet, and the pressure is mounting to fix this problem.

    Clowney isn’t just another veteran—he’s a proven Pro Bowl pass-rusher who can lift the whole defense. Pairing him with Rashan Gary would be a nightmare for opposing offenses. Clowney’s experience and leadership would take some of the pressure off Van Ness to develop without having to carry the weight of high expectations.

    A Strategic Move Against Division Rivals

    Signing Clowney wouldn’t just add to the roster—it would keep him away from division rivals like the Detroit Lions who are reportedly one of the top contenders for his services. Imagine Clowney lining up against Green Bay twice a year instead of the other way around. That’s a scenario the Packers must avoid at all costs.

    With a rotation of Gary, Clowney, Van Ness, Kingsley Enagbare and Sorrell the Packers front seven would be a much deeper and more versatile unit. That’s what could make or break their championship hopes next year.

    What’s Next for Clowney and the Packers?

    Clowney has thrown down the gauntlet and now it’s up to the Packers to respond. Signing him wouldn’t just fill an immediate need—it would send a message to the rest of the league that Green Bay means business in 2024.

    “He sent a message and the Packers better listen” one insider said.

    If the Packers want to avoid last year’s struggles they need to sign Clowney.

  • Packers Sign Linebacker Kristian Welch to Bolster Defense

    Packers Sign Linebacker Kristian Welch to Bolster Defense

    The Green Bay Packers are bringing back a familiar face to the roster. On Friday, General Manager Brian Gutekunst announced the signing of Kristian Welch, which adds depth and to the special teams unit.

    Welch was with the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens last season. He’s back in Green Bay because of his hard work and reliability, two traits that make him a valuable NFL player.

    A Veteran of the League

    Kristian Welch’s NFL career began when he signed as an undrafted free agent with the Baltimore Ravens in 2020 after playing college football at the University of Iowa. Since then, the Iola, Wisconsin native has found a role as a special teams contributor and rotational linebacker.

    In his five-year career (2020-2024), Welch has played in 72 regular season games, started two of them. His primary role has been on special teams where he has 27 tackles and a fumble recovery. He’s also had 13 defensive tackles (6 solo). He’s played in seven postseason games with four special teams tackles.

    Welch’s Impact on the Packers

    Welch’s return to Green Bay feels like coming home. Last season was a trial by fire for him. He started on the practice squad, got elevated to the active roster in late September—and then played in 12 regular-season games and both postseason contests. He ranked third on the team with six special teams tackles.

    That consistency and depth are what the Packers value most. Welch’s familiarity with their system makes him a natural fit. And his leadership on special teams—plus his ability to step in when needed—is exactly what the Packers will need to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.

    Why This Signing Matters?

    Special teams can be the difference-maker in close games. Welch excels in those high-pressure situations. His experience and hustle make him a reliable option for Matt LaFleur and Rich Bisaccia. And by re-signing him, the Packers show they’re committed to building a well-rounded roster. That’s just as important as those splashy free-agent signings that get all the headlines.

    As the Packers continue to build their 2024 roster, Welch brings stability and experience. He can make key stops on special teams or step into a bigger role on defense. That versatility is an asset. And for Packers fans, Welch’s return is a reminder that—no matter where you came from—hard work and determination can take you a long way. Welch was undrafted out of college. Now he’s back where it all started for him: Green Bay.

  • Derrick Harmon, Jahdae Barron Gain Momentum as Packers’ Draft Favorites

    Derrick Harmon, Jahdae Barron Gain Momentum as Packers’ Draft Favorites

    The Green Bay Packers are making some noise in the NFL Draft conversation after the Scouting Combine, and Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon and Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron are at the top of the list. Top draft analysts are linking the Packers to these two studs, and it’s easy to see why. Both fit huge needs for Green Bay and after the combine, it’s only more obvious.

    Why Derrick Harmon Could Be a Game-Changer for the Packers

    Derrick Harmon 6-4 ½ 313 ran a 4.95 40 at the combine. That’s rare for a man of his size. His athleticism was on full display and it matches his on field production. Last season Harmon led all FBS defensive tackles with 34 pressures and had a 10.7% pressure rate 2nd among all defensive tackles.

    What the Analysts Are Saying?

    Dane Brugler of The Athletic had Harmon going to the Packers at 23 overall and said:

    “Harmon (6-4 ½ 313) was one of two defensive tackles over 305 pounds to run under 5.00 seconds in the 40. His athleticism off the ball was reflected in his FBS best 55 pressures last season.”

    Jordan Reid of ESPN agreed:

    “Given the draft capital the Packers have used on the defensive line, the returns haven’t been as good as they hoped. Let’s get Green Bay a difference maker. Harmon is the type of interior presence needed in Green Bay alongside Kenny Clark.”

    Why the Packers Need Harmon?

    TJ Slaton is a free agent, Kenny Clark had a down year and Devonte Wyatt is entering the final year of his rookie deal. The Packers defensive line needs help. Harmon’s size, speed and disruption would be an instant upgrade for Jeff Hafley’s defense.

    Jahdae Barron: Secondary Swiss Army Knife

    Jahdae Barron is gaining a lot of steam with the Packers. The Texas Corner ran a 4.39 40 yards at the combine! He’s a little small but he’s Versatile and that fits Green Bay’s secondary perfectly. He played perimeter corner, nickel back and even some safety snaps in Texas.

    What the Analysts Are Saying

    Lance Zierlein from NFL.com sent Barron to the Packers in his post combine mock draft and wrote:

    “If Barron is still available at 23, Brian Gutekunst might run this card up to the podium. Barron’s playmaking and versatility would be a huge addition to the secondary.”

    Luke Easterling from Athlon Sports also likes Barron:

    “Jaire Alexander is on his way out and Barron’s versatility and playmaking would be a great replacement for Green Bay.”

    Why the Packers Need Barron

    Jaire Alexander is likely to be gone this offseason and the Packers need a new anchor in the secondary. Barron can play outside and inside, that gives Green Bay flexibility and his big play ability will fill the void left by Alexander.