Packers: Five bold predictions for the 2020 season

Rashan Gary has a monster year

I’ll admit I was more than a little puzzled when the Packers took Rashan Gary in the 2019 draft. There were injury and position questions surrounding him and I felt there were better players on the board. Despite some of the athleticism shown at the combine and pro days, I wasn’t sold on the Michigan star.

I’m banking on my assessment being wrong.

For Gary, the situation couldn’t have been better. The Packers spent big money on Za’Darius and Preston Smith, and Gary wouldn’t have to be rushed onto the field. In addition, the Packers still had their 2018 sack leader Kyler Fackrell to spell the Smiths.

All Gary had to do was soak in the knowledge, work on his craft, take advantage of opportunities when they arrive, and build towards the future.

By all accounts, he has done exactly those things and is ready to show the team they made the right choice.

There have been rave reviews by the coaches, as well as the internet, to Gary’s metamorphosis. Gary posted videos showing his training on social media, showing fans his progress, and with camp underway, he’s getting many chances to prove himself.

Teams will focus on the Smiths and newly-signed Kenny Clark first. This should give Gary favorable matchups to take advantage of.

Last year, the Packers were the only team to finish with two players in double-digit sacks. This year I say they are the only team with three as Gary comes up big.