Pressing Issues: Weak Pass Rush

Many fans are well aware of how ineffective the Packers’ pass rush has been so far this season. What was expected to be a strength of the defense has arguably become its weakest point.

Statistically, the Packers rank last in the league in getting to the quarterback. Through four games, the Packers have generated the fewest sacks out of all 32 teams.
Rashan Gary, at 26 years old and earning $27 million per year, has managed only one sack this season. Kenny Clark, set to make $29 million in 2024, has yet to record a sack.
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Meanwhile, Preston Smith, 31 years old and earning $10 million next year, has logged just two sacks. As a team, the Packers have only combined for 13 sacks across four games, ranking dead last in the NFL.
To be fair, the defense is adjusting to a new scheme, and that transition takes time. However, what seemed to be a formidable pass rush on paper has been nothing short of disappointing so far.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple solution to this issue. But one thing is clear: it needs to be addressed, especially with the secondary dealing with injuries. The defensive front needs to step up and relieve some pressure on the defensive backs. For example, last week against the Vikings, Sam Darnold was able to throw outside the pocket on two occasions out of his 28 passing attempts—clearly a sign that our pass rush isn't applying consistent pressure.
When Jeff Hafley took over the defense, there was an emphasis on playing more aggressively. So far, I haven't seen that level of aggressiveness manifest on the field.
With Jaire Alexander and Carrington Valentine expected to return for the upcoming game against the Rams—and with the Rams potentially missing key receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp—this is the perfect opportunity for the Packers to dial up the pressure. Getting after Matt Stafford could force him into bad decisions, and a strong pass rush could ignite the confidence and swagger this defense needs moving forward.
Yes, bringing more pressure may leave our secondary and linebackers in one-on-one situations, but it’s a necessary gamble. When the quarterback is under duress, the coverage players don’t have to maintain their assignments as long. Asking any secondary to cover top-tier NFL talent for more than four seconds is unreasonable.