Filling Clark's void at nose tackle over the past two games, Lancaster has racked up 11 tackles (eight solo) in 98 defensive snaps. Despite not having their three preferred starters, the Packers' run defense has allowed only 147 yards on 49 carries (3.0 yards per attempt) over the past two weeks.

"Tyler, for sure, has been ahead of where I was when I was a rookie," said Clark recently. "He's doing a great job. The coaches trust him. We trust him. He's everywhere he's supposed to be and playing the run great."

Following Lancaster's disruptive six-tackle performance against Chicago two weeks ago, defensive coordinator Mike Pettine praised Lancaster for being "close to dominant."

Lancaster appreciates the compliment, but it doesn't change his mindset. He still feels every part the undrafted free agent who must prove on every snap he's worth keeping around.

"It's pretty awesome knowing my coaches have more trust in me now, but I really try to push that back," Lancaster said. "Because the next week, I could have a horrible week. I really try to ignore anything positive or negative on the outside and focus on what my game can be."

Lancaster knows he's a run-down defensive lineman right now, no different than the position Clark held down during his rookie season back in 2016. Moving forward, it's his goal to round out his game for more involvement with the interior pass rush.

At the same time, Lancaster can appreciate how far he's come over the past eight months in Green Bay.