The Green Bay Packers defense could look very different in 2024.
Coach Matt LaFleur has begun the search for a new defensive coordinator to replace Joe Barry. His next hire will determine whether the Packers make a significant change in philosophy or follow a similar plan to Barry.
Regardless of which candidate LaFleur hires, securing secondary candidates is a top priority for Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst. The front seven have performed at a high level for most of the season, but the backline needs improvement.
Not surprisingly, some draft experts predict that Green Bay will have a strong defense on the opening night of the 2024 NFL Draft. The late Mel Kiper Jr. is the favorite among many experts to get in early at cornerback or out early at safety. . Green Bay will focus on another premium position by selecting BYU’s Kingsley Suamataia. Rasheed Walker and Zach Tom enjoyed breakout seasons for the Packers heading into 2023, but depth will be a major concern with the departures of David Bakhtiari and free agent Yosh Nijman. It makes sense to make your best games early. Suamathaya can be played left or right. Green Bay likes versatility. Cornerback might be Green Bay’s biggest need this offseason.
Moving Alabama’s Kool-Aid McKinstry to No. 25 would be a perfect scenario for the Packers. “CB1 shows his skills,” wrote Bucky Brooks. The trio of McKinstry, Jaire Alexander and Carrington Valentine gives the Packers plenty of potential at cornerback in 2024, especially if Eric Stokes can stay healthy. Three Packers safeties will hit free agency this spring. It wouldn’t be surprising if none of them return. Miami’s Camren Kinchens gives Green Bay an upgrade over every safety currently on the roster.
The Packers defense has thrown just seven interceptions this season. As Broback noted in the pilot, Kinchens was 10 in his last two years of college. We know Brian Gutekunst likes to draft players from Georgia, selecting Quay Walker, Devonte Wyatt and Eric Stokes. If Kamari Lassiter is available, he could add another Georgia cornerback on Day 1.
