Green Bay Packers' switch to 3-4 defense could benefit dynamic young pass-rusher

The Green Bay Packers are orchestrating a major defensive overhaul. Under the direction of new defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, the team is transitioning away from a 4-3 alignment and returning to a traditional 3-4 base scheme. While this philosophical shift impacts every player on the roster, few stand to benefit more than second-year linebacker Collin Oliver.

After a quiet rookie season derailed by injury, Oliver now finds himself in an ideal position to secure a significant role. We will explore his impressive college pedigree, his exact fit within the revamped system, and how his emergence could transform the Green Bay pass rush.

Green Bay Packers' Collin Oliver could thrive in new defense

Oliver brings a proven track record of getting to the quarterback. During his four years at Oklahoma State, he demonstrated an exceptional ability to disrupt the pocket and force negative plays. He burst onto the national scene during his freshman campaign in 2021, leading the highly competitive Big 12 conference with 11.5 sacks. He ultimately amassed 23.5 sacks throughout his collegiate career.

Before a foot injury shortened his final college season in 2024, Oliver transitioned to a stand-up linebacker role. He excelled in this alignment, generating 14 pressures and two sacks on just 46 pass-rushing snaps. This specific experience operating as a stand-up edge-rusher makes him uniquely qualified for Green Bay’s new defensive vision. He already understands the nuances of rushing without his hand in the dirt.

Finding a home in the 3-4 scheme

Gannon’s 3-4 defense relies heavily on athletic outside linebackers to generate pressure. The team recently signaled this schematic shift by naming DeMarcus Covington as the dedicated outside linebackers coach. This structural change opens a clear path to playing time for Oliver, who struggled to find a natural position in last year’s 4-3 setup.

Analysts expect Lukas Van Ness to transition from a traditional defensive end into a down lineman role. This strategic move clears out the edge rusher room, leaving a premium spot available opposite star pass rusher Micah Parsons. During rookie minicamp last year, Oliver flashed so much potential that observers dubbed him “Baby Micah.” Now, as he recovers from the hamstring injury that sidelined his rookie campaign, he has the opportunity to play that exact complementary role on Sundays.

The perfect physical fit

Operating in a 3-4 scheme maximizes Oliver’s physical strengths. As a slightly smaller edge defender, setting the edge as a traditional 4-3 defensive end against massive offensive tackles put him at a structural disadvantage. Playing as a stand-up outside linebacker allows him to leverage his elite burst, flexibility and spatial awareness. He can use his speed to threaten the outside shoulder of tackles rather than engaging them in a pure contest of brute strength.

Elevating the Green Bay pass rush

A healthy and productive Oliver gives the Packers a dynamic element they desperately need. A successful 3-4 defense requires multiple edge defenders who can win one-on-one matchups and force opposing offenses into difficult blocking assignments.

With Parsons returning from a torn ACL, the defense cannot afford to rely entirely on one player to generate sacks. Oliver possesses the natural bend and closing speed to exploit favorable matchups when offensive lines slide their protection toward Parsons. By establishing a credible threat on the opposite edge, the Packers can deploy more creative blitz packages and overwhelm opposing quarterbacks.

The switch to a 3-4 scheme aligns perfectly with Collin Oliver’s natural talents. His college production proves he knows how to rush the passer from a stand-up position, and the current roster construction offers him a clear path to the field. As the Packers build their new defensive identity, fans should watch Oliver closely during training camp.