The Green Bay Packers are 9-4 and look like a lock to make the playoffs. However, looking ahead, they have a very clear need on defense in 2025. Their pass rush needs to improve.
While listing players the Packers can add to fix the pass rush in 2025, FanSided’s Rucker Haringey urged the team to sign Philadelphia Eagles breakout star Zack Baun.
“If they want to really go big to improve their defense they should look to ink Zach Baun to a big contract in free agency,” wrote Haringey. “Baun is not a classic pass-rusher on the edge but deploying him on the second level would allow the Packers’ defense to blitz opponents more often in 2025. It’s not an exaggeration to say he’s been one of the best linebackers in football this season. His PFF average of 90 on the year illustrates just how good he’s been.”
The Packers have invested heavily in their pass rush but have not seen the expected returns. Rashan Gary got off to a slow start this season after signing an extension last year. Lukas Van Ness is seeing more snaps but has yet to take over as a primary player after the Packers spent a first-round pick on him in 2023.
Baun only has 3.5 sacks this season, but he has been great in coverage in the middle of the field. His coverage ability makes it tougher for quarterbacks to get the ball out to running backs and tight ends, giving the rush just enough extra time to cause trouble.
“A big secret to his success is just how often he’s been able to win in coverage for the Eagles defense. His ability to effectively cover tight ends and running backs changes the math for Philadelphia’s defense,” wrote Haringey. “The Packers would love to have a linebacker they could trust to hold up in one-on-one matchups in pass coverage. Signing Baun would be expensive for Green Bay but this offseason could be the time for them to go all-in via free agency.”
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