Three stats the Packers must improve in the 2019 season
1. Sacks allowed
As Aaron Rodgers gets older and injuries continue to be an issue, the importance of protecting him increases. Last season, the pass protection simply wasn’t good enough. The offense allowed 53 sacks, the third-most in the NFL, and 102 quarterback hits, tied for 10th-most.
Part of that is due to Rodgers’ ability to extend plays, which means he holds the football for longer. That’s something head coach Matt LaFleur will have considered when designing the offense. If more of the offense is focused on timing and getting the ball out quickly, there will be less risk of Rodgers getting hit.
That said, he wasn’t helped much by the offensive line, particularly at the interior positions. David Bakhtiari put together a third All-Pro season at left tackle, but too often pressure came from the inside, which is exactly why the Packers made sure to bring in offensive linemen who can play at guard.
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With improved play at the two guard spots, and also with Rodgers getting the ball out faster, the Packers can significantly reduce the amount of times their MVP quarterback is sacked. Not only does that mean there’s less chance Rodgers gets injured, but it also increases the chances of the offense moving the chains each drive.