The Green Bay Packers have a genuinely good defense. That's a phrase that hasn't been said in a couple of years, but it's true.
Brian Gutekunst did a great job of upgrading the personnel in the offseason, but a lot of credit has to go to defensive coordinator Mike Pettine. But Pettine outlined just how good his unit could be when speaking to Matt Schneidman.
#Packers DC Mike Pettine says his defense isn’t “really good” yet.
“We’re nowhere near where we can be.”
Green Bay leads the NFL with eight caused turnovers and ranks second with 11.7 PPG allowed. pic.twitter.com/q8DpCNFN2X
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) September 25, 2019
At first look, this sounds like some classic coach speak. But with a closer look, Pettine's words don't sound so meaningless. It starts with the linebacker group. Starting inside linebacker Oren Burks hasn't played this season. First-round draft pick Rashan Gary has barely seen the field despite his immense talent. Third string edge rusher Kyler Fackrell recorded 10.5 sacks in 2018, and can barely see the field now. The depth is ridiculous, as they have four legitimate starters at outside linebacker.
While the defensive back group isn't as deep as the linebackers, it's still outstanding. It starts with Jaire Alexander, a second-year cornerback who is on the brink of stardom. Alexander plays alongside Kevin King and Tramon Williams, two other talented corners. These cornerbacks are good, but the Packers' safeties are better.
Adrian Amos is one of the most underrated players in the NFL and rookie safety Darnell Savage is another Green Bay player who has the potential to be a Pro Bowler. This squad hasn't allowed more than 250 passing yards in a game, and has at least one interception in every contest.
If the offense can pull its weight, this team will have a good chance to win the NFC North division title.