In Jeff Hafley’s first year as defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, the defense emerged as one of the league’s elite units. But despite the group’s success, one of its most important players, defensive lineman Kenny Clark, struggled to maintain peak performance due to a lingering foot injury.
Kenny Clark Battled Through Injury All Season
Despite Clark not being at full strength, the Packers still put up impressive numbers. They finished sixth in total defense (315.6 yards allowed per game), seventh in run defense (99.4 yards allowed), and tied for eighth in sacks (45). Clark revealed he dealt with a foot injury throughout the season one that began in the Brazil game, where he and quarterback Jordan Love both suffered significant setbacks during a season-opening loss to the Eagles. Clark eventually underwent surgery in January.
A Healthy Kenny Clark Could Elevate the Defense in 2025
The fact that the Packers’ defense performed so well without a fully healthy Clark speaks volumes. Now entering his 10th NFL season all with Green Bay and turning 30, Clark remains the emotional and physical anchor of the defensive front.
Just two seasons ago, he had a career year, setting personal bests in sacks (7.5) and quarterback hits (16), while tying his career high for tackles for loss (9). That season, the team came within a quarter of reaching the NFC Championship. While last season saw them win 11 games, their playoff run fell short of expectations.
When fully healthy, Clark is one of the premier interior defensive linemen in the league. His impact in the trenches can shift the momentum of any game, making it crucial that he enters 2025 at full strength especially with so much riding on what could be the most pivotal season of his career.
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