Green Bay Packers 2018-19 - NFL Season Preview & Future Odds Predictions

Last season Green Bay’s All-Pro quarterback Aaron Rodgers missed several games due to a shoulder injury. The last time that happened back in 2013, he returned the following season and earned the league MVP and Packers fans hope fate repeats itself. The Packers ended the 2017 NFL regular season 7-9 and missed the playoffs for the first time in nine seasons. Rodgers sat out seven games with a fractured shoulder. However, Rodgers, who said he is completely healed and still at the top of his game, is 34 and time is running out for him to win another Super Bowl. The offense must get used to Joe Philbin, the re-signed offensive coordinator, whose schemes are different from what the team is used to, which Rodgers says will take time. The Packers, to save money, released veteran wide receiver and Rodgers’ favorite target Jordy Nelson and the right side of the offensive line has been plagued with injuries. To compensate for the loss of Nelson, the Packers added tight end Jimmy Graham a five Pro Bowler who will give more options to Rodgers. Last season Graham, while with Seattle, caught 10 touchdown passes. The big playmaker at wide out Davante Adams should become an elite receiver for the team this year. Jamaal Williams along with Aaron Jones need to step up from solid rookie seasons as running back to take some heat off Rodgers. Jones will miss the first two games of the season due to a suspension. Ty Montgomery will make defensive backfields miserable coming out of the backfield on third-down situations.

Green Bay’s defensive unit was disappointing last season. Dom Capers was fired after nine seasons as the defensive coordinator and Mike Pettine was hired in his place. His defensive units with the Jets and Bills were also in the top 10 for total defense. Top draft picks were used to help the cornerback position with Josh Jackson and Jaire Alexander selected. The defensive line returned three from last season and added Muhammad Wilkerson. The defensive pass rush last season was weak and the team needs standouts Nick Perry and Clay Matthews to remain healthy and receive better play from peripheral players such as Reggie Gilbert, Vince Biegel and Kyler Fackrell. The Packers need safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix to bounce back from a disappointing season, after Morgan Bennett left during free agency.