The Green Bay Packers are in the midst of an intriguing offseason, with General Manager Brian Gutekunst making strategic moves to bolster the team through free agency. While there have been key additions at linebacker, defensive tackle, and cornerback, one position remains a glaring need: nose tackle. This role has taken on new importance with the arrival of defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon and his transition to a 3-4 base defense.
Switching from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense necessitates a strong presence in the middle, and currently, the Packers have just one player who fits that bill-second-year player Nazir Stackhouse. Signed as an undrafted free agent after the 2025 NFL Draft, Stackhouse is known for his run-stuffing capabilities rather than pass-rushing prowess. At 6’4” and 327 pounds, he’s built to hold his ground and occupy multiple blockers.
In his rookie year, Stackhouse saw limited action, participating in only 19 percent of the defensive snaps across 13 games. He managed to rack up 12 total tackles, showing potential but also facing the typical rookie challenges of adjusting to the NFL's pace and physicality. Pro Football Focus rated him below average, highlighting room for growth, especially in pass coverage.
The Packers have been active on the defensive front, trading Warren Brinson to the Colts for linebacker Zaire Franklin and signing free agent Javon Hargrave to boost the pass rush. Yet, the team still lacks a true nose tackle, a crucial piece for Gannon’s scheme.
As the draft approaches, Gutekunst may look to address this need. Without a first-round pick this year or in 2027, the focus will likely be on day two.
Two standout prospects are on the radar: Domonique Orange from Iowa State, aptly nicknamed “Big Citrus,” and Christen Miller from Georgia. Orange, with his 6’2”, 325-pound frame, combines run-stopping ability with some pass-rushing potential, evidenced by his 4.5 sacks in 2024.
Meanwhile, Miller, reminiscent of Kenny Clark, offers a mix of run defense and backfield penetration, though his lack of complete athletic testing might be a concern for Gutekunst.
While nose tackle isn't typically viewed as a premium position, its importance in the Packers' new defensive setup is undeniable. Whether Gutekunst opts to address this need on day two of the draft or waits for the later rounds, it's likely we'll see the Packers add depth to this critical position before the 2026 season kicks off.