The Green Bay Packers enter training camp hoping to prepare for a better all-around year than ’16. Had the Lions not collapsed at the end of last season, the Packers would have squeaked into the playoffs via wild card. A big part of the problem? Defense. The Packers ranked 22nd overall in that department last year. They finished 31st in pass defense, giving up 269.2 yards per game. This offseason, the Packers have shown that they want to fix their secondary via draft and free agency.
How will all these new pieces fit? Here’s what you should watch for during training camp.
3 Position Battles to Watch
1. Running Back
Ty Montgomery vs. Jamaal Williams vs. Aaron Jones
Yes, Montgomery is going to get the starting nod because he has the experience and is ready to build off of last year. I don’t think he loses the starting spot, but the Packers drafted three running backs which provide a fun battle for the spot behind Montgomery. Packers Running Backs Coach Ben Sirmans is looking for someone to step up during camp.
“The biggest thing is just competition, competition. With so many different guys, somebody is going to have to rise to the top and step up and be ready to play.”
Should be fun.
2. Cornerback
Davon House vs. Kevin King vs. Damarius Randall vs. Ladarius Gunter
As mentioned earlier, the Packers were B A D on defense last year and this will be a very important position to address during camp. The Packers brought veteran House back after two seasons with the Jaguars and is the easiest lock to start. As for the others, King has the edge but missed OTAs and some of minicamp so he’ll have to prove himself during camp. The Packers love King’s talent though and will have every opportunity to shine.
Strap in for a good, healthy dose of friendly competition. I think they’re all friends.
3. Linebacker
Vince Biegel vs. Kyler Fackrell vs. Jayrone Elliott
The Packers need some help at the linebacker position to play alongside Clay Matthews and Nick Perry. Biegel is recovering from foot surgery and hopes to return to the field for camp. The Packers are in dire need of pass rushers and need players to step up. Cross your fingers that Biegel is good to go for camp because if not, it could prove costly for the Pack.
Ready to Breakout: Kenny Clark
I picked Clark as my guy in my NFC North breakout article and I’m sticking with him now. Here’s my reasoning from the article.
Unless you’re a Packers fan, you probably won’t know who this guy is. Clark finished his rookie campaign with 21 tackles and two fumble recoveries. Why do I think he’s in for a breakout year? Packers head coach Mike McCarthy had nothing but praise for Clark during the OTAs in May.
Kenny’s been crushing it in the weight room. That’s what you like to see, particularly in that second year. Just the science that’s involved in that, where guys can really make a significant gain in this nine-week program. I look for Kenny to do a lot more as a football player on the field.
Fantasy Sleeper: Ty Montgomery
Montgomery has every chance to take over as lead RB and if all goes well he can explode in ’17. I pick him as my sleeper because some will pass on him due to little RB experience thus far in the league. Personally, I think he’s a risky pick. Are you ready to risk it all? It may just turn out to be the best decision you make come draft day.
Rookie To Watch: Kevin King
Yeah I know I talked about him already but there seriously is a lot of excitement around this guy. His 40 time at the combine? 4.43. That’s incredible speed for a guy Packers fans are hoping can improve the defense. The defense will love the help. Packers fans will probably love him. It’s a win-win.
Overall, the Packers will be scary good offensively this year, especially with the addition of Martellus Bennett at TE. If Montgomery proves valuable for the run game and the additions to the defense step up and play well, this team could find themselves in the Super Bowl. Again, it’s all up to the defense.
Good luck, cheeseheads.
