BREAKING: Packers’ Unheralded Rookie Surging Up Depth Chart, Pushing for First-Team Reps

   

As the Packers look for answers to an underwhelming and underachieving pass rush, an unheralded rookie might be about to carve out a role for himself.

Former university of Georgia standout, and Packers undrafted rookie free agent, Nazir Stackhouse is putting together a dominant start to training camp, and even head coach Matt LaFleur is taking notice.

Packers’ Matt LaFleur Bullish on Nazir Stackhouse

Green Bay Packers, Jeff Hafley
Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley gives instruction during a drill with defensive backs on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis.

Stackhouse, 6-foot-4 and 326 pounds, might not just be in the mix to win a roster spot this summer but if his strong play continues throughout training camp and the preseason, he could find himself as one of the Packers’ starting defensive ends when the regular season kicks off in September.

“He’s earning more and more opportunities. I think at some point, we’re going to have to see him get in there versus our [No. 1 offense],” said head coach Matt LaFleur.

Green Bay Packers, Matt LaFleur
Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur gives a thumbs up to fans as he rides a bicycle to practice during the first day of training camp on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

A three year starter at the University of Georgia, Stackhouse finished his five-year collegiate career with three sacks, nine tackles for loss, and 96 total tackles but has been a dominant force this spring and summer since landing with the Packers.

 

Green Bay has built an ascending young roster with quality star power across the depth chart, but edge rusher may be one of the Packers’ remaining weaknesses. If Stackhouse continues on this trajectory, he might just be the next young player to emerge with a vital role in 2025.