The Unpacking Future Packers Countdown is a countdown of 100 prospects that could be selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 2022 NFL draft.
Rashan Gary and Preston Smith give the Green Bay Packers a formidable pass-rushing duo. That duo combined for 18.5 sacks last season and could see that number climb this season.
The depth behind those two pass-rushers leaves much to be desired. Look for Brian Gutekunst to address the position early and often in the 2022 NFL draft.
A player that Green Bay’s general manager could target in the first round is George Karlaftis. The Purdue edge rusher checks in at No. 7 in the Unpacking Future Packers countdown.
Born in Greece, Karlaftis moved to Indiana when he was a teenager. He came to Purdue as a four-star recruit.
Karlaftis made waves as a freshman in 2019, recording 54 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks and one interception. In 2020, Karlaftis played in just three games and recorded two sacks.
This past season Karlaftis recorded 11.5 tackles for loss, five sacks and forced three fumbles. According to Pro Football Focus, the Purdue edge rusher recorded 35 pressures.
“By just looking at the numbers, you would think George didn’t have a productive season,” Mike Carmin, the Purdue beat writer for The Journal & Courier, said. “But he did. You have to watch the tape. He was double and triple teamed most of the time, limiting his chances of collecting sacks and tackles for loss. His value last season was in pressuring the quarterback and knocking him off his spot. I’m sure an analytical service can provide you how many times quarterbacks had to throw quicker than normal because Karlaftis was in their face. He didn’t get the sacks, but he impacted how quarterbacks played against Purdue’s defense. It allowed other players on the defense to make plays and that made the Boilermakers a solid group last season.”
The Greek Freak. Karlaftis is an outstanding athlete. He was a two-time Indiana State Champion in the shot…