Packers: 10 players who need to step up in 2020 season

6. Devin Funchess

Devin Funchess was the Packers’ top addition at wide receiver in free agency, a major position of need when the offseason began. Funchess has the talent to be a complementary option in the Packers offense alongside Davante Adams. The Packers need more consistency at wide receiver to help Adams, and Funchess can provide that if he stays healthy.

Back in 2017, Funchess caught 63 passes for 840 yards and eight touchdowns. If he can get close to those numbers again with the Packers, this offense will take a step forward this year. But after not making many moves at receiver in the offseason, a lot depends on Funchess’ first year in Green Bay.

5. Christian Kirksey

Similarly, Christian Kirksey was the only notable addition at inside linebacker. He’ll take over the starting role from Blake Martinez, who signed with the New York Giants in free agency. Backup B.J. Goodson also departed in free agency.

For starters, Kirksey needs to stay healthy after missing 23 regular-season games over the past two years. And with so much uncertainty at the inside linebacker position, there’s a lot of pressure on Kirksey to become a reliable starter in the middle of Mike Pettine’s defense. If he starts every game and is an upgrade on Martinez, this defense will be in good shape.