3 things the Green Bay Packers need to address in 2022

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 22: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers is sacked by defensive end Arik Armstead #91of the San Francisco 49ers during the 2nd quarter of the NFC Divisional Playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lambeau Field on January 22, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images) /

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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – JANUARY 22: Nose tackle Kenny Clark #97 of the Green Bay Packers reacts after a sack during the 4th quarter of the NFC Divisional Playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lambeau Field on January 22, 2022 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /

2. Look for more run stoppers

This offseason, the organization parted ways with defensive coordinator Mike Pettine and hired Joe Barry to take over his spot. It’s interesting to note that in the former’s final season with the club, the team finished ninth in the league in fewest total yards allowed. The Packers were tied for 13th in the league vs. the run while only six clubs gave up fewer yards through the air.

In 2021, Green Bay was once again ninth in the NFL in total defense. But the team remained mediocre when it came to stopping the run, allowing 109.1 rushing yards per game and 13 scores on the ground. The inability to consistently slow down opposing ground attacks made life easier for enemy quarterbacks. The Pack did come up with 18 interceptions but also allowed a disappointing 31 scores through the air.

Too many times, Barry’s unit was pushed around by some of the better offensive fronts in the league when it came to establishing the run. In the playoff loss to the 49ers, Kyle Shanahan exercised patience with his ground game. The club ran only 52 offensive plays but rushed 29 times for 106 yards.

The Packers have some dynamite pass-rushers. But Kenny Clark could use a little more help on the inside.

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