Colby Wooden Sparks Packers’ Run Defense Renaissance
Colby Wooden’s transformation from a seldom-used rookie to a pivotal force in the Green Bay Packers’ defensive line is a tale of perseverance and opportunity. Dubbed “The General” by his teammates, Wooden has become the linchpin in a run defense that has defied expectations this season.
A Journey from Benchwarmer to Leader
Last season, Wooden spent the majority of his time on the sidelines, not playing a single defensive snap in four games. His rookie year saw minimal involvement, with an average of just 18 snaps across 13 games. Fast forward to the present, and the narrative has shifted dramatically. With the departure of veteran nose tackle TJ Slaton and the surprising trade of stalwart Kenny Clark to the Dallas Cowboys, Wooden’s moment has arrived.
“It’s like opportunity and preparation met,” Wooden reflected. “I’ve been practicing and preparing for this. I didn’t know it would be this soon. None of us know God’s plan. It’d be a shame to waste this opportunity.”
The Rise of “The General”
The nickname “The General” stems from assistant defensive line coach Vince Oghobaase, who emphasizes the nose tackle’s crucial role in the defense. “Everything starts with the nose,” Wooden explained. “For me to be the nose, it’s looked at like being the general of the defense.”
Wooden’s impact on the field has been profound. Just seven games into the current season, he has already set career highs in tackles and solo tackles, showcasing his evolution as a player. His four tackles for loss this season surpass his total from his first two years combined, reflecting a newfound confidence and skill set.
Praise from Coaches and Teammates
Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley has praised Wooden’s energetic presence and relentless work ethic. “He’s just this relentless guy who always has a smile on his face,” Hafley said. “He’s gotten bigger and stronger and is developing confidence. His teammates believe in him, and I think that’s huge.”
Micah Parsons, an NFC Defensive Player of the Month, also underscored Wooden’s importance, stating, “Colby, it starts with him. We call him ‘The General.’ He owns his role. He understands he stops the run.”
Embracing the Challenge Ahead
As the Packers prepare for their upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers, they stand fourth in the NFL with just 3.73 yards allowed per carry. This defensive strength is a testament to the hard work the team has put in, particularly after losing key players.
“My mindset wasn’t to prove people wrong. It was to prove the guys upstairs right,” Wooden asserted. “God didn’t leave me here. This is his plan. So, I just got to go out and execute.”
A New Era in the Trenches
Wooden’s physical presence has grown significantly; he has bulked up from 273 pounds at the 2023 Scouting Combine to approximately 300 pounds now. This increase in size, coupled with his knowledge gained from watching Kenny Clark, has enabled him to thrive in his new role.
“Playing inside is all about mentality,” Wooden stated. “You got to love physicality. It’s not a pretty job, but you have to take pride in it.”
His journey has not come without challenges, but Wooden’s commitment to preparation and execution has positioned him as a key player in the Packers’ defensive resurgence. As he continues to develop, the team looks to build on their defensive success, buoyed by the energy and leadership of “The General.”
