Packers: Three early predictions for training camp 2019

1. Offense catches up with defense

Adjusting to a new scheme is not always an easy, smooth process. It takes time. So it was no surprise when both head coach Matt LaFleur and right tackle Bryan Bulaga admitted that the Green Bay Packers defense was ahead of the offense in June, according to Ryan Wood of PackersNews.com.

The defense is entering year two in Mike Pettine’s scheme. This offseason is about building on last season. And there’s of course a lot of talent on that side of the ball featuring big-money free agency additions and high draft picks.

But my prediction is that it begins to even out at training camp as the offense gains more familiarity.

“The scheme works.”

Those were the words of Aaron Rodgers when speaking to Chris Simms of NBC Sports. And he’s absolutely right. LaFleur has been a part of some highly successful offenses in recent years, spending time working for Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay. LaFleur’s system does indeed work.

But for it to work, each player needs to be on the same page.

Pettine’s second-year defense had the advantage over LaFleur’s new offense in the offseason. But as Rodgers and the offense get more reps in this scheme throughout training camp, they’ll begin to close the gap.

And that would be great news for both sides of the ball ahead of the new season.