In Defense of Barry Potential Return

The spotlight in Green Bay has often shone on Joe Barry over recent years, arguably more than anyone else. While Aaron Rodgers may be a notable exception, his departure from the team has shifted attention, leaving Barry as a focal point of consternation among Packers fans. While it once seemed inevitable that Barry would depart after the season, whether through the expiration of his contract or a pink slip, there’s now a growing openness to the possibility, if not the likelihood, of him returning to Green Bay for 2024 and beyond.

Should Barry make his case to Matt LaFleur today for retaining his job, he would present a compelling argument. Despite consistent struggles in the run game, the Packers’ defense has consistently positioned the team to win. Currently ranking ninth in the league in scoring defense and boasting the eighth-best scoring percentage in the red zone, Barry’s defense, at its best, epitomizes a bend-but-don’t-break unit.

A noteworthy resurgence has marked the Packers’ recent performance, with the defense allowing an average of just 17.4 points per game over the past five weeks. Never conceding more than 23 points in a single contest and limiting opponents to 20 or fewer three times, the defense’s strength is evident. While some might attribute this success to matchups against Brett Rypien and Kenny Pickett, the defense held its ground against formidable quarterbacks like Justin Herbert, Jared Goff, and Patrick Mahomes.

Remarkably, the defense has thrived despite key players being absent throughout the season. Jaire Alexander has spent as much time off the field as on it, Darnell Savage and De’Vondre Campbell have battled injuries, Eric Stokes had a short-lived return from injured reserve, and Rasul Douglas left for good in late October. Yet, the defense has persevered, showcasing the coaching staff’s ability to extract impressive performances from young and previously overlooked players.

Players like Carrington Valentine, Corey Ballentine, Rudy Ford, Jonathan Owens, and Karl Brooks have stepped up, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive efforts. While some might consider this praise to be relatively subdued, it remains praise nonetheless. The defense, on the whole, has fulfilled its responsibilities this season, leaving room for speculation that Joe Barry might indeed receive another opportunity to lead the unit in 2024.