OK guys, eight No. 1 picks on our defense. I try to control expectations, but it isn’t too much to ask for a top 10 defense at least. Do you agree?
As Spoff wrote Friday night (or maybe it was already Saturday morning by then), Brian Gutekunst and the Packers aren’t shying away from defensive expectations. Green Bay has first-round picks at every defensive position, including multiple at edge rusher and cornerback. The Packers need that unit to set the tone, and continue setting the tone, next season, especially once Gary and Eric Stokes get back on the field.
Tom from West Palm Beach voiced oft-heard criticism that BG’s heavy investment with R-1 picks has not lifted our D to an elite level. Among my several slants defending his attempts is, look at all the chatter going on among some of the better pundits, detailing the tremendous advantage gained Thursday by that swap to 13th. Just two picks higher. Just TWO! Think of difficulties he’s usually faced picking in the 20s, trying to get a leg up over so many foes picking a couple dozen in front of him.
That’s an important distinction to make. Furthermore, fans also must consider that Gutekunst is getting the most bang for his buck with these selections. Quarterback, cornerback, and edge rusher are premium positions that often command the largest contracts on your roster. Jaire Alexander and Gary were bargains on their rookie deals prior to having their fifth-year options exercised. Those are also the players you want to invest long-term contracts in, as well, because you know them, and they know you. It’s a much more attractive partnership than signing a free agent with potential blind spots.
People are aware that having a good defense makes life easier for your offense, right? Once Rashan Gary comes back from his injury, having him and Preston Smith and Van Ness and Enagbare could really give opposing offenses fits. Like the man said: Defense wins championships! Plus, it’s not like the draft is over; they WILL pick up a few TEs and WRs. People need to chill out a little…or a lot.
Many of those skeptics were the same ones questioning the decision to pick Gary in 2019. You can’t win ’em all. Whether the pick came on Day 1 or 2, the Packers needed help at edge rusher. You can’t count on a Whitney Mercilus or Justin Hollins being available midseason to ease the burden in the wake of injuries. Even when Gary is back, Green Bay can still line up Van Ness inside next to Clark on passing downs.
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