I'm optimistic that the defense is on the right course and is playing better. A few things holding it back:
- Continued lack of production from the OLB position.
- Loss of Wilkerson.
- The Safety play and lack of depth.
- Bit of inexperience in our young CB group.
- Injuries, but I hate using that as an excuse, its the same every year...depth is needed.
This offseason needs to finally be the one that addresses the OLB. While it will be expensive, I would prefer the Packers trying to do so by signing one of the top 5 OLB FA's and still using a top pick on one in the draft.
Not sure if Wilkerson will be back. At the right price, I would want him back. Doesn't seem like we have enough quality depth currently on the DL.
The Safety position has become a lot like the OLB position. We need better talent ASAP.
I am hopeful for King getting healthy and staying healthy. Even if he doesn't, you have to believe that JA and Jackson are legit and the future of the position. I'm still iffy on Joe Whitt coaching these guys, but that may resolve itself if there is a purging of coaches in the off season.
Now the bad news. With all the draft capital spent on the defense in the past 5+ years, the offense is going to need some attention. As much as everyone wants to say we have a solid OL, I would disagree, time to invest high in a RT and a mid round pick or two for the future. Graham will be back at TE, but I don't see Lewis or Kendricks back. Time to invest a higher pick in the position to backup Graham as well as take over for him in the next 2 years.
Will be interesting to see what Gute does in Free Agency. I could see him using a decent cap cushion to address OLB, S and RT.