Kingsley Enagbare could be a great NFL edge-rusher immediately

The Green Bay Packers parted ways with All-Pro edge-rusher Za'Darius Smith earlier this offseason. That meant that they needed to add at least one more edge-rusher to provide depth for the starting tandem of Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, who both recorded 9+ sacks in 2021. In April's NFL Draft, the team selected South Carolina's Kingsley Enagbare in the fifth round. Enagbare has the talent and track record to provide an immediate impact for defensive coordinator Joe Barry.

Enagbare has good size (6-4, 260 lbs) and his experience playing amongst the best in the SEC for four years makes him even tougher to play against. The Atlanta native finished first in the Power Five last season with 16 quarterback hits and third in pass-rush win rate. He was also named First-Team All-SEC in 2020 after finishing sixth in forced fumbles (3) and first on the team in sacks (6). His upper-body power combined with his potential to develop into a five-technique player makes him a dangerous young defender for any offensive line. The Gamecocks star has the potential become a young, talented defensive piece in Green Bay for the forseeable future.

Packers GM Brian Gutekunst also drafted two talented Georgia Bulldogs in standout defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt and tackling-machine Quay Walker in the first round. Not only does Joe Barry have a lot to work with in terms of veterans and experience on defense, but he has a ton of youth too. Enagbare will learn from veterans in Gary and Smith on the edge and will spell them on certain early downs. His youth and speed will be vital for an edge-rush group that needs a key No. 3 pass-rusher. Enagbare might just be exactly that.