Packers: Five things to watch at training camp 2019

5. Which returning defenders step up their game?

Much will be made about the newcomers to the defense, but the team won’t reach its full potential without returning players stepping up their game.

Many expect Jaire Alexander to build on his promising rookie season and turn into a Pro Bowler and impact player. If Kevin King can stay healthy and live up to his potential, the Packers could have a very formidable duo at corner.

Kenny Clark is on the verge of becoming a superstar and should he continue on that trajectory, the defense will have a fierce pass rush coming from inside and out, with Clark and Mike Daniels pushing the pocket and the Smiths and Gary closing from outside.

Speaking of defenders who should up their game, no-one did that more in 2018 than Kyler Fackrell. Fackrell will be headed for free agency in the spring, and another season like last year will make Fackrell a very rich man, even if it’s not with the Pack.

Can Oren Burks shore up what’s been a weak spot in the middle of the field? Will Josh Jones finally make his talent and skills meet? Or will he make his unhappiness known and wait for a trade? I personally would like to see him reach his potential and give the team more games like the one he had against the Bengals in his rookie year with this team.

Beginning Thursday, all of these questions will start to be answered. Let’s get back to football!