It turns out there’s a flip side to Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield’s impressive performance, throwing for 381 yards and four touchdowns in Week 15 against the Packers. The Packers defense seemed unable to cover anyone during that game, earning a dismal coverage grade of 30.7 from Pro Football Focus, significantly lower than their previous low of 51.3 in Week 11 versus the Chargers. While Mayfield might have been accurate with his throws, the Packers’ defensive lapses made it easier for him.
Despite the criticisms aimed at Joe Barry, injuries, youth, and the trade of Rasul Douglas, the Packers’ top cover man, have contributed significantly to the secondary’s vulnerabilities.
Adding to their challenges, the Packers’ defensive backs haven’t been much of a support in run defense either. Ranking just 19th in PFF’s run-defense grading system, only safety Darnell Savage rates above a 62.0 in run-support grading among the defensive backs.
Considering these issues, Bleacher Report proposes that the Packers prioritize bolstering their defensive backfield in the upcoming offseason, pinpointing Patriots safety Kyle Dugger as a prime target.
Kyle Dugger wasn’t widely recognized during the 2020 NFL Draft. Selected by the Patriots in the second round, he emerged from Div. II Lenoir-Rhyne as a relatively unknown prospect. Initially met with skepticism in New England, Dugger has developed into a dependable professional and stands out as one of the league’s top safeties.
While he might have some limitations in coverage, Dugger excels in run support, which is a notable strength.
Bleacher Report outlines how Dugger could integrate into the Packers’ defensive scheme, highlighting his versatility and ability to contribute as a deep safety, in the box, and over the slot—a critical aspect for Green Bay given their upcoming vacancies in the secondary.
The Packers’ defense faces numerous uncertainties in the offseason, including the fate of coordinator Joe Barry. However, addressing the issues in the secondary remains a top priority. There’s optimism surrounding the potential return to form of Jaire Alexander, who struggled with injuries, and the development of young talents like Eric Stokes and Carrington Valentine. However, the safety position lacks depth, with only Savage as a notable presence.
While the Packers might not have substantial financial flexibility, Dugger could be an affordable option. Pats Pulpit, an SB Nation blog, projected a potential contract for Dugger resembling the three-year, $36 million deal recently signed by Grant Delpit with the Browns. Given the state of the secondary, the Packers might consider investing in such a move.
