A team with no shortage of controversy surrounding them as rookie minicamps begin to open across the NFL; the Green Bay Packers remain focused on rekindling their relationship with star quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Reportedly disgruntled with a clock set on his time left with the Packers after the selection of Jordan Love a year ago, the 16-year veteran remains adamant he will not return to the team.
With positional battles on the roster beginning to take shape as training camp remains just over two months away, the Packers will hope to see second-year jumps from running back AJ Dillon, fullback Josiah Deguara, and linebacker Kamal Martin. Furthermore, with new defensive coordinator, Joe Barry, set to take over for Mike Pettine, look for a battle to take place at the number two cornerback spot opposite Jaire Alexander. Rookie Eric Stokes will challenge veteran Kevin King after being selected 29th overall in this year’s NFL Draft.
Will Josh Myers Start at Center in Week 1?
True. After being selected 62nd overall by the Packers in this year’s NFL Draft, look for Myers to fill in for the recently departed Corey Linsley. Playing over 1,500 snaps for the Ohio State Buckeyes over three seasons, the 22-year-old is a strong run blocker with the ability to fire off the line of scrimmage at the snap and get to the second level of the defense. Furthermore, he can also effectively anchor in pass protection against rushers while remaining strong at the point of attack.
With all-pro left tackle David Bakhtiari still working his way back from a season-ending ACL injury, look for third-year lineman Elgton Jenkins to slide out to the blindside protector spot. This would leave veteran Lucas Patrick or former sixth-round pick Jon Runyan Jr. likely to slide in at the left guard position.
Could Shemar Jean-Charles Take Over for Chandon Sullivan as the Primary Slot Corner?
True. A productive player during his final two years at Appalachian State, Jean-Charles recorded 25 pass breakups, two interceptions, and 80 tackles in 25 games with the team. Remaining undersized to be a regular contributor on the outside at the NFL level with just a 5’11” 190-lb frame, the fifth-round pick has both the instincts and timing to match up with opposing slot receivers.
Enjoying an up and down season a year ago, Sullivan struggled mightily in big moments for the Packers. Routinely targeted by Tom Brady in the NFC Championship Game, the 24-year-old allowed three catches for 57 yards, with all of them coming on third downs to extend drives. Back with the team on a one-year deal after signing his RFA tender, the Georgia State Alum could be fighting for a roster spot if he struggles again in 2021.
Do Any Other NFL Franchises provide Aaron Rodgers with a Better Opportunity to Win a Second Super Bowl?
False. With trade rumors beginning to swirl as Rodgers’ destain for the Packers’ front office dominates the news circles around the league, possible trade destinations have started to be mentioned. Likely wanting to head to a team on the verge of entering Super Bowl contender status, possible partners have included the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, and San Francisco 49ers.
However, with all-pro wide receiver Davante Adams and pro-bowl running back Aaron Jones set to return for another season, the 37-year-old’s best option to return to the big game remains in Green Bay. Furthermore, after emerging into one of the best red-zone threats in football a season ago after hauling in 11 touchdown catches, tight end Robert Tonyan will also look to build on his strong 2020 campaign after signing his second-round tender.
Can Blake Bortles earn a roster spot after reuniting with Nathaniel Hackett?
True. Bortles recently inked a one-year deal with Green Bay to help fill the voided third quarterback spot. With a need present, after longtime veteran Tim Boyle signed with the Lions early on in the offseason, the former third-overall pick brings experience with Hackett. Working under the coordinator during his time with the Jaguars from 2015-2018, the 29-year-old helped lead the team to an AFC Championship Game appearance. Furthermore, he also tossed a career-high 35 touchdown passes in 2015 in his first year in Hackett’s system.
With no quarterbacks selected in the draft or signed as an undrafted free agent, look for Bortles to provide an insurance option if Rodgers chooses to return to the team. Or, a veteran backup option if Love is indeed the starter Week 1.
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