NFL Record Predictions: Where do the Redskins end up in the pack?
By Ian Cummings
Green Bay Packers
The shorthand explanation? Aaron Rodgers finally has a defense.
The longhand, because the Bears and Lions fans deserve it in a time like this: I like the Packers as one of two teams to make the playoffs from the NFC North. Yes, Matt LaFleur is in his first season with the team, but this wouldn’t be the first time Aaron Rodgers has transcended coaching in his career.
Rodgers may have been part of the problem, in regards to Mike McCarthy and his downfall in Green Bay, but a fresh start could help him maximize his arm while he still has some juice left. And even if LaFleur isn’t the great offensive mind he’s chalked up to be, Rodgers has plenty of weapons, and a very solid offensive line.
And defensively, the Packers have gone from dangerously thin to simply dangerous. Their front four has a new look with Rashan Gary, former Redskins edge Preston Smith, and ZaDarius Smith, and their secondary has elite potential, with Jaire Alexander, Josh Jackson, Darnell Savage, and Adrian Amos. The Packers stole an upgrade at safety from Chicago to complete a very well-rounded lineup, and it should help them, despite their coaching situation.