Packers: Three bold predictions for the 2021 season

1. Aaron Rodgers returns, wins MVP again

We’re in all agreement that if Aaron Rodgers plays for another team, he’s going to put in an all-world season and win a Super Bowl, right? But what about if he returns to Green Bay?

Well, look out all 17 opponents on the schedule.

Rodgers is coming off the back of arguably his greatest ever season. He threw for a career-best 48 touchdowns with only five interceptions, unthinkable numbers that brought home his third NFL MVP award.

Matching those numbers will be very difficult. Patrick Mahomes threw for 50 touchdowns in 2018 but hasn’t hit more than 38 since. We should expect some of Rodgers’ insane numbers to drop slightly, but that doesn’t mean he can’t have a better overall season.

If he returns, Rodgers will be entering his third year in Matt LaFleur’s system. A scheme that has helped lift this Packers offense from struggling under Mike McCarthy to leading the league in scoring last season.

They did lose an All-Pro center as Corey Linsley signed with the Los Angeles Chargers, but this is still one of the best and deepest offensive lines in the league. At the skill positions, the Packers have added third-round pick Amari Rodgers, while Devin Funchess makes his return.

More familiarity with the scheme, more talent added on offense, and Rodgers with a point to prove. That’s a recipe for success.

My bold prediction is that not only will Rodgers return to Green Bay, but he’ll become the first player since Peyton Manning in 2009 to win a second straight MVP award. Former teammate Brett Favre also achieved this in 1996.