Packers Switch to Three-Four Defense, Target Nose Tackle in Draft

0:00It's March 20th for the NFL. Let's get into it. Follow and subscribe for more team news every day. The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for a shift back to a 3-4 base defense in 2026 under new coordinator Jonathan Ganon. Recent coaching staff announcements make this crystal clear, especially with changes to key defensive roles. DeMarcus Covinton moves from defensive line coach to outside linebacker's coach, while Vincent Acklebyes steps up from assistant defensive line coach to the full defensive line position. These tweaks redefine edge rushers as outside linebackers rather than defensive ends, moving away from the 4-3 scheme run by Jeff Hathley, the past two years. Fans and analysts see this as a nod to the team's past success with 3-4 fronts, though the NFL spends most snaps and nickel packages anyway. It mainly affects those base plays, about 25-30% of the game, where a 3-man interior line could shine. Looking ahead, the Packers still need a strong nose tackle to plug runs on early downs.

1:04DeVon Hargrave works in nickel fronts, but isn't built for heavy 3-4 duty, so the April NFL draft offers a prime chance to grab that missing. Peace. With the staff locked in, Green Bay's defense shapes up for a fresh look next season, blending old strengths with Ganon's vision.