Rashan Gary has recorded just 9 pressures through six games in 2024, with three zero-pressure games. Last year, he recorded 26 pressures in that span.
While this article will focus on Gary, it’s important to note the entire edge room is underperforming. Preston Smith also has just 9 pressures, compared to 13 over the first six games in 2023. Lukas Van Ness has six pressures this season, but he had five in Week 1 alone against Chicago last year.
Rashan Gary recorded 179 pressures over the last three seasons and led the league in pass rush win rate in October 2023. He entered 2024 after a strong 2023 campaign with 60 pressures and 10 sacks. So, what could have happened to him this year?
According to ESPN, through the first five weeks of 2024, offenses chipped Gary the third-most among edge rushers, behind only T.J. Watt and Myles Garrett.
Offenses are accounting for Gary as he is the most talented edge rusher on the Packers. However, elite edge rushers consistently face chipping around the league, yet most still find ways to be productive. Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt have combined for 41 pressures and 9 sacks this year. Gary is paid like an elite edge rusher, and he and Jeff Hafley must actively find ways to counter these chips. Unfortunately, the results have been below average.
Green Bay planned a conservative pass rush on the edges to contain and erase rushing lanes against mobile quarterbacks. Gary recorded no pressures against Anthony Richardson but pressured both Jalen Hurts and Kyler Murray three times.
He recorded no pressures against the Rams but achieved a 25% pass rush win rate. Los Angeles chipped Gary consistently with running backs and tight ends, and their plan to stop him succeeded.
By no means does Gary’s low production reflect a lack of effort. We have seen his talent. It’s a matter of fully adjusting to the new scheme. He and Hafley must find new ways to beat those chips, whether by sending extra pressure or moving him around the line of scrimmage. The pass rush unit needs to improve as well. Gary cannot cause havoc in the backfield when the rest of the room does next to nothing.
