Packers Late-Round Rookie Sends Message With Pro-Level Mindset

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Felipe Reis Aceti | Last updated May 7, 2025 1:29 PM ET

The Green Bay Packers’ defensive line was arguably their most disappointing position group last season. Despite well-defending the run, they ranked 27th in pass rush win rate. With significant contracts invested in Kenny Clark and Rashan Gary, plus two first-round picks in Lukas Van Ness and Devonte Wyatt, the pass rush underperformed relative to expectations.

Green Bay strengthened its defensive line by selecting edge rushers Barryn Sorrell and Collin Oliver. In addition to the interior, defensive lineman Warren Brinson. Super Bowl LIX proved that having depth up front is essential for success. With that in mind, General Manager Brian Gutekunst is dedicated to strengthening the defensive line, ensuring Green Bay's trenches are ready for the upcoming season.

Recently, Brinson shared his mindset and goals to contribute and help improve the defensive line.

"I mean, it's the NFL, so I got to get out in the preseason to see where I'm at. Honestly, I think I'm a very good pass rusher, but I can't just be too cocky about it," Brinson said while speaking to the media during rookie minicamp.

"I got to work hard, I got to ask Kenny (Clark) some stuff, just learn from the guys around me, get into practice, and just hear what they have to tell me. I'm trying to be a sponge and just soak in all the information, just find out the nuances of the NFL that I need to know to be elite and be ahead of other people."

Brinson also looks to make an impact beyond the football field.

"My goal is to do my best to learn my part, do my job, and just be a leader for the guys around me," Brinson added. "I'm a rookie, but I still can lead by example by just doing my job, doing my part, staying in my playbook, and doing the right things."

Brinson is a good athlete, earning a 78.0 run defense grade over the past two seasons at Georgia. Georgia’s deep defensive line rotation limited his snaps, but he still showed flashes of his potential. He is well-positioned to contribute as a situational run-stopper in Green Bay, particularly on short-yardage downs. With T.J. Slaton departing in free agency, Brinson could step into a key role early and emerge as a reliable option in the interior run defense.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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