Packers position themselves to invest heavily in developing 2 distinct roles as clear priority begins to emerge
Green Bay switched base defenses, and that also had an impact on how head coach Matt LaFleur and defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon built the rest of the coaching staff.
Two years ago, the Green Bay Packers prioritized solidity. When the base defense transitioned to 4-3 under Jeff Hafley, the coaching staff unified interior defensive linemen and edge defenders in the same room — first, under Jason Rebrovich, then under DeMarcus Covington.
Now, the odd front days are back under Jonathan Gannon. Even though he likes to diversify schemes and alignment, Gannons runs primarily a 3-4 base, and that’s what he indicated building his coaching staff. Now, the priorities are the specific roles and development of these players based on their primary positions.
Coaching staff formation
Initially hired as a defensive line coach, Covington is now the outside linebackers coach — in addition to his titles as run game coordinator and assistant head coach. That means he will work with the edge rushers, who are now officially listed by the team as outside linebackers instead of defensive ends.
Formerly an assistant defensive line coach, Vince Oghobaase was promoted to defensive line coach. He will take care of the interior defensive linemen — a group that may include nose tackles, defensive tackles, and the now-once again-called defensive ends.
This is relevant because, over the past two years, the Packers lacked individual development upfront despite the significant investment made in these positions. They are different, with different skill sets required and responsibilities.
How it affects the roster
With more focus on internal development, the Packers have more room to make some bets. On the edge room, the team traded Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys and let Kingsley Enagbare walk in free agency. Presumably, the staff and the front office will look for ways to develop Barryn Sorrell, Collin Oliver, and maybe an eventual draft pick.
At defensive tackle, the situation is even more extreme. The team added Javon Hargrave, but Devonte Wyatt and Karl Brooks are entering a contract year. Most likely, Brian Gutekunst will have to draft a defensive tackle or two, but having a more specific treatment for the position helps to get a developmental player and actually make him improve — it’s not a coincidence that the Packers will host Southeastern Louisiana defensive tackle Kaleb Proctor on a top 30 visit.
The 4-3/3-4 differences aren’t as significant as they used to be, but the defensive front and the coaching staff approaches do matter. For the Packers, it’s a new era under Jonathan Gannon — and hopefully for them, it’s an era where players can improve faster.
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