The Green Bay Packers finished the 2024 season ranked 26th in pass rush win rate, with Rashan Gary leading the team with 47 pressures, but ranking only 31st among edge rushers. Additionally, Kenny Clark recorded just one sack, and while the Packers finished with 45 total sacks, 20 of them came in just three games.
With no significant moves made in free agency to improve the pass rush, the Packers are likely to focus on addressing the defensive line, particularly interior linemen and edge rushers, in the upcoming draft.
The team has been evaluating defensive line prospects closely, with reports indicating they plan to bring in South Carolina defensive tackle T.J. Sanders for a pre-draft visit.
Sanders had an impressive 2024 season, posting 4.5 sacks, 33 pressures, and ranking 9th in pass-rush grade among defensive tackles. The 6’4″, 284-pound Sanders is known for his explosive ability to disrupt both the run and pass game, recording a 21.2% pass-rush win rate and 11.2% run-stop win rate.
Sanders is projected as a Day 2 pick by Bleacher Report, and with fewer picks this year, the Packers may look to trade down in the second round to secure him while also gaining additional picks. This strategy would allow Green Bay to target Sanders without compromising the rest of their draft board.
Given that Kenny Clark is aging and Devonte Wyatt is entering the final year of his rookie deal, the Packers need to add depth to their defensive line. Sanders could benefit from learning behind Clark this season before potentially stepping into a starting role in 2026, providing crucial depth and future potential for Green Bay’s defense.
