Devonte Wyatt played 552 defensive snaps in 2023, recording 45 pressures, 5.5 sacks, and 34 hurries. Moreover, he had a pass rush win rate of 16.1%. With the Packers switching to a 4-3 defense and a more aggressive style under Jeff Hafley, Wyatt’s strengths will be better utilized. This change could greatly benefit Green Bay’s front seven.
Devonte Wyatt led all defensive linemen drafted in 2022 with 45 pressures in 2023, surpassing the second-best, Travis Jones, by 23 pressures. However, Wyatt struggled with finishing plays. Packers fans frequently saw him miss opportunities to convert pressures into sacks or tackles for loss. His inability to consistently close out plays was a notable challenge throughout the 2023 season.
As we look ahead to 2024, we can expect Wyatt’s playing time and production to increase. His main focus now is working on the fundamentals and improving his play-finishing ability. With two years in the system and extensive film study, he should have a clear understanding of where and how to make these adjustments. This progression will be crucial for maximizing his impact on the field and solidifying his role in the Packers’ defense.
In 2024, Green Bay’s defense will focus on aggressively attacking both the football and the line of scrimmage. In recent years, the Packers’ defense has struggled against the run, often being gashed on the ground. When was the last time a Green Bay defender tackled a running back five yards behind the line of scrimmage? It feels like 2010. Next year, we should expect a more instinctive and physical Packers defense, which could play to the strengths of most of the unit.
Wyatt will benefit significantly from rotating on a strong defensive line. Kenny Clark achieved a career-high 7.5 sacks last year, while Rashan Gary and Preston Smith tallied 17 sacks combined. Karl Brooks and Lukas Van Ness added 9 sacks and 43 pressures in 2023. Opposing offenses must strategize against all these players, which will likely leave Wyatt with advantageous one-on-one matchups at the line of scrimmage.
Devonte Wyatt is expected to take an even bigger leap in 2024. If he stays healthy, Packers fans should believe that he has the tools to lead the team in multiple stat categories and become one of the pillars of Green Bay’s defense.
