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NFL 2018: Ranking the 5 best offseason moves at defensive end

By Russell S. Baxter

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 29: Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson #96 of the New York Jets celebrates a tackle against running back Tevin Coleman #26 (not pictured) of the Atlanta Falcons during the third quarter of the game at MetLife Stadium on October 29, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 29: Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson #96 of the New York Jets celebrates a tackle against running back Tevin Coleman #26 (not pictured) of the Atlanta Falcons during the third quarter of the game at MetLife Stadium on October 29, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /
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LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 04: Muhammad Wilkerson #96 of the New York Jets runs onto the field with team mates prior to the game against Miami Dolphins at Wembley Stadium on October 4, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 04: Muhammad Wilkerson #96 of the New York Jets runs onto the field with team mates prior to the game against Miami Dolphins at Wembley Stadium on October 4, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images) /

1. Muhammad Wilkerson (Green Bay Packers)

It was somewhat of a surprise that the New York Jets were willing to part ways with arguably their most consistent defensive linemen this decade. But that franchise’s loss will prove to be a major gain for the Green Bay Packers.

This was an ideal signing for new general manager Brian Gutekunst. And Muhammad Wilkerson is also very familiar with new defensive coordinator Mike Pettine’s way of doing things. You will recall the former Temple University standout, a first-round pick by the Jets in 2011, spent two years with the well-traveled coach. Pettine was the Green and White’s defensive boss under Rex Ryan from 2009-12.

The career numbers are solid. There have been 105 games, with 101 starts. The seven-year pro has racked 44.5 career sacks, batted down 28 passes, totaled a pair of interceptions and forced 11 fumbles. He joins a defensive unit that ranked 22nd in the league this past season in total yards allowed per game. And Green Bay was just 17th in the NFL against the run.

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The Packers still have their share of question marks on the defensive side of the ball. But Wilkerson is a huge answer for a three-man front that must do more this fall.

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