Through two days of camp, the Packers defense has been the energizer bunny, flying around the field, looking light on their feet.
“I’m running around with a pack of dogs,” said cornerback Nate Hobbs. “We’re running to the ball, trying to get the ball out. Belt to ***. B-T-A. You know what I’m saying?”
Year 2 under Jeff Hafley as the defensive coordinator comes with plenty of excitement but also curiosity about how that side of the ball will improve.
The answer? They’re hungry.
“Guys are just playing faster, playing confident,” said safety Evan Williams. “Understanding how to play off of each other having a year under our belt and I feel like there’s definitely a different level we can tap into.”
“Once you understand how this defense works and how guys are gonna attack us, it allows you to play faster and exploit those plays,” said defensive lineman Kenny Clark.
“We can only get better man,” said safety Javon Bullard. “Like I said it was a new defense, new coaches, new players and we’re just trying to fit in and learn each other but this year I feel like we’re going to take that leap and be what we’re supposed to be.”
The question then is how do they go out there, execute everyday and take that leap? Head Coach Matt LaFleur says it’s all about the process because every day is a dress rehearsal for week one.
“Along the way, you’re forging your identity,” said LaFleur. “You’re getting into better football shape because there’s no substitute for–there’s nothing these guys can do that can get them the conditioning for what they’re about to take on.”
“It all starts now,” said Clark. “It all starts with practice. Coming in here, being intentional about the work every day and just moving forward from there.”
We’ll see how they grow as a unit as camp continues on. With the Packers, Michael Gross, Fox 11 Sports.