Before the 2009 NFL season, the Green Bay Packers used a 4-3 defensive scheme. However, that changed when then-head coach Mike McCarthy hired Dom Capers as his new defensive coordinator. Capers brought with him a 3-4 defensive scheme. That scheme, or some variation of it, continued to operate when Capers left in 2017. Mike Pettine and Joe Barry both ran a 3-4 defense. However, with the arrival of new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, the 3-4 is being phased out and the 4-3 is being implemented. The new scheme means that the Green Bay Packers’ defensive line will have some learning to do during this year’s training camp.
Prior to the 2009 NFL season, the Green Bay Packers utilized a 4-3 defensive strategy. However, that changed when then-head coach Mike McCarthy recruited Dom Capers as his new defensive coordinator. Capers brought with him a 3-4 defensive formation. That plan, or a version of it, continued to operate when Capers left in 2017. Mike Pettine and Joe Barry both ran a 3-4 defense. However, with the hiring of new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, the 3-4 is no longer in use and the 4-3 has replaced it. The new system implies that the Green Bay Packers’ defensive line will need to master new things during this year’s training camp.
Packers’ Defensive Line Will Look Different In 2024.
One of the reasons head coach Matt LaFleur was drawn to Jeff Hafley during his search for a new coordinator was his experience. Hafley has served as an NFL assistant for three separate teams: the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Cleveland Browns, and the San Francisco 49ers. The Buccaneers and 49ers both used 4-3 defenses, although the Browns used a 3-4 style.
Hafley’s strategy will be based on a 4-3 formation. But don’t be surprised if you see three or four during the season. Using both, he will be able to determine what is best for the Packers’ defense. However, the Green Packers defensive line will have additional challenges as they adjust to a new coordinator.
Green Bay Packers defensive line coach Jason Rebrovich and new assistant defensive line coach Vince Oghobaase will be responsible with educating the defensive line on the new type of defense. Some people will adapt quickly. However, for others, it may be like attempting to fit a square peg into a round hole.
Interior of the defensive line.
Kenny Clark, the Packers’ longtime starting nose tackle, has established himself as an elite interior pass rusher on the defensive line. He has 34 sacks over his eight-year career, all of which have come with the Packers. Given Clark’s strong performance, many may believe that the new defensive plan will limit his potential value. However, we do not believe this will be the case.
Running a 4-3 will relieve Clark of his role in run defense (a weakness in his game) and benefit him in passing situations. Expect Hafley to shift Clark all over the line to ensure he gets excellent matchups and can do what he does best.
Devonte Wyatt, another Packers defensive lineman, will find it difficult to adjust to a 4-3 defense. Wyatt, a talented defensive lineman for the University of Georgia, played in a 3-4 configuration. This continued through his first two seasons with the Packers. However, after five and a half sacks in 2023, Wyatt will be expected to master a new system. Wyatt is unlikely to have a steep learning curve. He had a good burst off the line last season, and that should not be affected by the new plan.
TJ Slaton is one player who may struggle with the new strategy. At 6’4″ and 330 pounds, Slaton has the build of a nose tackle. When Clark was moved around on the defensive line, he regularly played in this position and performed admirably last season. While Slaton has impressive athleticism for his stature, he may struggle to adjust to Hafley’s new defensive alignment.
