Green Bay Packers Linebacker Edgerrin Cooper‘s impact Diminished in Second Season
GREEN BAY, WI – After a promising rookie campaign, Green Bay Packers linebacker Edgerrin Cooper has seen a decline in impactful plays during his second season, raising questions about his utilization within the team’s defensive scheme.
Last year, the Packers gradually integrated Cooper into the lineup, but his performances quickly proved tantalizing.He finished his rookie year with 3.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss in 14 games, earning an All-Pro vote and finishing sixth in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting despite starting only four games and playing 491 snaps.
This season, however, Cooper’s production has decreased. Through 11 games, he has recorded just half a sack and two tackles for loss. His Pro Football Focus grades have also declined across the board. He has already matched his 14 missed tackles from last season,despite playing more snaps – 706 compared to 491 last year.
While not playing poorly Cooper’s opportunities as a pass rusher have substantially diminished.According to Pro Football Focus data,he rushed the passer on approximately 10% of his defensive snaps as a rookie (56 pass rushes in 549 snaps). This year, that number has dropped to just over 6% (45 of 706 snaps).
The shift in usage may be a strategic adjustment by the Packers, especially with the emergence of other playmakers like Micah parsons. Though, if the Packers aim for a deep playoff run, maximizing Cooper’s potential – potentially through increased pass-rushing opportunities – coudl be crucial.
