Coming into the 2019 season, the Green Bay Packers had enormous expectations. Their superstar quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, had just inked what at the time was the biggest contract in NFL history and looked to bounce back strong from his broken collarbone. Their defense, led by defensive-tackle Kenny Clark, looked young and promising, and many NFL analysts such as Tony Romo picked the Packers to go to the Super Bowl.
After an exciting comeback win over the Packers longtime rival, the Chicago Bears, the hype around the Packers grew even more, as no one could deny Aaron Rodgers’ greatness. Fast forward to week 17, and the Packers have suffered a terrible loss, losing to their division rival Detroit Lions by 31, despite playing at their home turf. This game seemed to define the Packers season, as ever since their spectacular week one comeback, they fell short of expectations.
The Packers finished the year 6-9-1, finishing third in the NFC North, the division they have established dominance in over the last couple of decades. Despite this disappointing season, there is still hope in Green Bay, as there always is with Aaron Rodgers at the helm. Let’s take a look at five reasons why the Green Bay Packers will make a super bowl run in 2019.
Five Reasons Why the Green Bay Packers Will Make a Super Bowl Run in 2019
A Fully Healthy Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers was dealing with knee injuries the whole season, and because he is so tough and competitive, he played 16/17 games. Rodgers explained that he had a tibial plateau fracture and an MCL sprain and that he had lost vision when he suffered a concussion week 17. Now, Rodgers appears to be healthy, and will most likely be 100% by the start of next season, therefore giving the Packers insane optimism.
More Experienced Receiving Core
While Packers wide-receiver Davante Adams did have a superstar season, the Packers lacked depth and experience at wide receiver. At the start of the season, Packers wide receiver Geronimo Allison was looking like he was going to have a break out year until he was sidelined with hamstring and groin injuries. This forced the Packers to start two late-round rookies, Marquez Valdez-Scantling and Equanimeous St. Brown. Yes, both rookie WRs showed potential but showed their lack of experience. However, the Packers have no need to worry as not only Geronimo Allison but Jake Kumerow, who was injured most of last season, appear to be fully healthy. With veterans in Adams, Allison, and Kumerow to pair with the young but talented Valdes-Scantling and St. Brown, Aaron Rodgers now has a full armory to pick apart defenses.
Full Usage of Aaron Jones
Aaron Jones is one of the NFL’s brightest running-backs and put up impressive numbers despite not being utilized enough by at the time head coach Mike Mcarthy. Still, Jones led the NFL in yards per carry and when given the opportunity, Jones never failed to rise to the occasion. New head coach, Matt Lafleur, plans to utilize the run game more. Not only will this keep defenses guessing, but it will take the pressure off of Aaron Rodgers, who in the past were forced to carry the load on offense. The Packers drafted Dexter Williams, the talented running back out of Notre Dame, to pair with Aaron Jones and veteran Jamaal Williams in the backfield. Led by Aaron Jones, the Packers offense will likely have their best season running the football in a long time. Expect great things from this Packers offense.
More Depth on the Offensive Line
The Packers struggled heavily on the offensive line, as Rodgers was sacked 49 times. The biggest reason for this was lack of depth, as the Packers rotational offensive lineman were not ready for the NFL quite yet. The Packers addressed this issue, however, signing Billy Turner and drafting Elton Jenkins. These moves give the Packers more depth and versatility on the offensive line, therefore protection their generational talent in Aaron Rodgers.
Filled Needs on Defense
The Packers pass rush seemed nonexistent at times this season. The Packers needed help specifically at outside linebacker. They went out and signed outside linebackers Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith, two power rushers who get to the quarterback with strength and physicality. The Packers drafted a versatile defensive end in Rashan Gary, another physical pass rusher who can also stand up and play linebacker during coverage schemes. This pash rush should be the best pass rush the Packers have ever had since Clay Matthews was in his prime. Another big void on the Packers defense this year was safety, as the Packers traded Haha Clinton-Dix and Josh Jones proved too young to be a starter at this point in his career. The Packers signed Adrian Amos, one of the better safeties in the league who is known for almost never giving up a big play downfield. They also traded up in the draft Darnell Savage Jr., a safety who should mesh well with Amos, because he is known for his big play ability. Savages’ electrifying plays paired with Amos’ lockdown coverage ability could make to be the most terrifying safety duo in the league.
Last Word
The Packers really addressed their needs this offseason and look to get back into super bowl contention within the coming years. After a disappointing 2019 season, the Packers will come into 2020 with a chip on their shoulder. With fully healthy Packers squad paired with their new additions, the Packers will surprise the NFL not only make the playoffs but make a Super Bowl run.
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