Packers: 9 reasons why Green Bay will bounce back in 2018

7. Run game is in a strong position

A year ago the Packers decided to make wholesale changes at the running back position, replacing veterans Eddie Lacy, James Starks and Christine Michael with rookies Jamaal Williams, Aaron Jones and Devante Mays.

Ty Montgomery — who made the transition to running back midway through the 2016 season — was the only member of the backfield to return.

Last season’s moves have paid off. Williams and Jones look to have formed an excellent 1-2 punch in the backfield, while Montgomery offers depth as a running back but plenty of value to the offense no matter where he’s lined up.

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Mays was the only disappointment of the rookie running backs in 2017, although it’s too early to write him off. The seventh-round selection only carried four times all season. Opportunities were few and far between, in large part because he had more fumbles (two) than rushing yards (one). Mays will need to regain Mike McCarthy’s trust to earn more opportunities in 2018, and it starts with a strong summer.

For now Williams and Jones will likely see the bulk of the work in the backfield, and the Packers have to be delighted with their offseason work last year. Both running backs were found on the draft’s final day, but have already made a positive impact in Green Bay.

Williams, Jones and Montgomery will all have important roles in 2018.