Green Bay Packers edge rusher Rashan Gary totaled five pressures in a meaningless Week 18 loss to the Detroit Lions. Another consistent performance from Gary brought his pressure total to 81 on the season, which finished third in the league among edge rushers, according to Pro Football Focus. It was a fitting ending to Gary’s breakout season that also put him in the conversation of premier NFL pass rushers.
Gary had no issues stepping up for Za’Darius Smith, who was sent to injured reserve after playing only 18 snaps in Week 1. He played just 48 percent of the defensive snaps in 2020 but saw that number rise to 68 in 2021.
Gary was certainly due for more playing time after the progress he saw between his rookie season and Year 2. Then came an imposing summer and training camp, which made breakout season in Year 3 was almost inevitable.
Unfortunately, he fell just short of the double-digit sack mark with 9.5 sacks in 2021, but it was still enough to lead the Packers and make him an alternate for this year’s Pro Bowl.
Accolades aside, the most remarkable part of Gary’s recent campaign is the terror he struck in opposing tackles and quarterbacks. Gary wasn’t just good for most of the season – he was dominant. His 81 pressures rank higher than TJ Watt, who just tied Michael Strahan’s single-season sack record; Nick Bosa the 2019 Defensive Rookie of the Year; and Myles Garrett, who will be considered for this season’s Defensive Player of the Year Award.
Gary has come a long way since his 12th overall selection that left many uncertain about his NFL future following an unremarkable college career at Michigan. In 34 games for the Wolverines, he managed just 9.5 sacks.
As a rookie, Gary was lucky to have the benefit of learning behind a pair of established veterans. He showed flashes at times, but it was clear where he needed work. His up-field burst was lacking, and getting off blocks was a chore. His skillset improved in year two as many thought he should be starting over Preston Smith. However, Gary’s snap count increased only slighting while he continued to work on his craft.
Fast forward to the present day and you can see just how far Gary’s work ethic has taken him. He’s a versatile pass rusher who can not only beat you with his strength but his speed as well. If he improves against the run, there is no telling how high his eventual price tag will be.
Green Bay has a star in Gary, and as he is poised to play a key role in the team’s Super Bowl run, his future looks brighter than ever.
