There’s no franchise in NFL history than has won more league titles (13) than the Green Bay Packers. They call it “Titletown” for a reason. And these days, with talented Aaron Rodgers at the helm, the franchise has reached the playoffs eight consecutive years. However, there’s been no Super Bowl appearance and win since 2010. Mike McCarthy’s squad has reached the NFC title games two of the past three seasons. They would fall to the Seattle Seahawks (2014) and Atlanta Falcons (2016), respectively.
General manager Ted Thompson was very active this offseason.
So what can we expect from this roster when the players report to St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin on July 26?
Major additions this offseason
For years, the Green Bay Packers avoided free agency and relied primarily on the draft to fortify their roster. But Thompson went in a somewhat different direction this offseason. Veteran additions such as tight ends Martellus Bennett (New England Patriots) and Lance Kendricks (Los Angeles Rams) were joined by veteran guard Jahri Evans (New Orleans Saints). On defense, the Pack signed end Ricky Jean-Francois who is well-versed in the 3-4 scheme. And cornerback Davon House is back with the team after spending two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
In April’s draft, the Packers added 10 players. The team spent its first four selections and the final six on offensive support – including three running backs. As for the defensive side of the football, cornerback Kevin King (2-Washington), versatile safety Josh Jones (2b-North Carolina State) and defensive tackle Montravius Adams (3-Auburn) could all see early playing time during the season.
What to look for
Can the much-maligned defense of the Green Bay Packers finally get its act together? This is a team loaded on offense but unable to consistently stop the opposition. Due mainly to injuries but the victim of inconsistent play as well, the team’s secondary had major issues this past season – most notably at cornerback.
Dom Capers’ defenders allowed 32 touchdown passes and only the Saints surrendered more yards through the air. Still, the team has brought in a lot of new faces in the defensive backfield and also bolstered the three-man front.
All told, this is a club that has relied far too long on Rodgers to bail them out. A more balanced attack will aid the defense and keep the star signal-caller out of harm’s way. Until the Packers’ shore up this side of the ball, trips to the postseason will continue to end in disappointment.
