Drafted with the last selection in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the Packers selected edge rusher Kingsley Enagbare out of the University of South Carolina. With solid college production, and middling measurables, Enagbare is set to be a project for the Packers staff to work on and develop.
Seeing limited playing time in his first two seasons in Columbia, the edge rusher showed flashes of talent when showcased. After bursting onto the scene in a shortened 2020 season, the Gamecock defender was projected as a fringe first round talent in many way too early drafts.
Enagbare experienced an up and down 2021 season. While still productive with 44 tackles, seven TFL, 4.5 sacks, and two pass breakups, the play fell short of the lofty expectations.
Following end of season hip surgery, and less than stellar measurables at the combine, the narrative was set for his fall from draft boards. Running just a 4.87 40, stiff athletic agility tests, and a less than impressive pro day, many turned the page on the former Gamecock.
Some suggest weight fluctuation and injuries contributed to the drop off in play and measurables for the high profile pass rusher. If so, those are certainly priority areas for the Packers coaching staff to address first. A leaner physique, increased strength, and clean bill of health could play a factor in increasing explosiveness off the line and capitalizing on his above average length and upper body power.
The positives are certainly still there for Enagbare. He played in the SEC going up against top talent on a weekly basis. He showed heavy hands, powerful arms, strong tackling, and a bulldog mentality. There are plenty of reasons to hold out hope he can perform at the next level if groomed properly.
Enagbare looks to start his career receiving amble playing time on special teams under new coordinator Rich Bisaccia. The former Raiders interim coach has already been making his impact on the Packers third unit early in his Packers tenure. Each of the Packers top three special teamers in terms of playing time have departed this offseason, so look to see Enagbare receive plenty of snaps there. As well, with the recent departure of Za’Darius Smith, don’t be surprised to see him playing some meaningful snaps on defense as well.
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Zach has been a lifelong Packers fan since his earliest memories of Brett Favre\\\'s Super Bowl win in Super Bowl XXXII. A proud shareholder of the team, he bleeds Green and Gold despite being born and raised in New Jersey. You can follow him on twitter at @RapMasterZach.
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