Packers NFL Draft Needs: Pass Rusher Opposite Clay Matthews

The Green Bay Packers nearly went perfect in the 2011 regular season so they don't have as many needs as others but there are still ways for the Packers to get better in the 2012 NFL draft this weekend. SB Nation's Packers blog, Acme Packing Company, says outside linebacker, defensive end and strong safety are the major needs.

1. 3-4 OLB: The trio of Erik Walden, Brad Jones and Frank Zombo didn't get it done last year on the other side of Clay Matthews. The Packers' pass rush was among the worst in the league in 2011 and is in need of some serious improvement at outside linebacker.

2. 3-4 DE: Cullen Jenkins left in free agency before the start of last season, leaving a big hole at defensive end. Many were hopeful that Mike Neal could fill the void, but he suffered with injuries all last season and will miss the first four games of 2012 due to suspension. The Packers have signed Daniel Muir and Anthony Hargrove in free agency to compete with Neal, Jarius Wynn and C.J. Wilson for time, but none of these players are guaranteed to produce at a starter level.

3. Strong Safety: If Nick Collins comes back, this could change. Morgan Burnett has played strong safety and free safety, but will likely play free safety in the event Collins does not return from his neck injury to start the season. Charlie Peprah has been serviceable, but unspectacular in his time with the Packers. Collins will learn Monday whether or not he can intensify his workouts and attempt to resume his professional football career, but it will be a while before anyone knows if he can start for the Packers.

For more news and notes on the Green Bay Packers, visit Acme Packing Company. Check out our 2012 NFL mock draft as selected by SB Nation NFL bloggers. And make sure to visit SB Nation's draft blog, Mocking The Draft, for more on the NFL draft.