Packers: Expect a much-improved defense in 2021 season
While the Green Bay Packers‘ defense made strides in 2020, there were weak areas which proved to be costly in the NFC Championship game against Tampa Bay.
Throughout last season, Green Bay had its moments when they struggled to stop the running game. Plus, the secondary showed great weakness at times. Certain games were frustrating to watch as the defense definitely had its head-scratching moments. Though the overall aggression was better in 2020 than in previous seasons, there is still plenty of room for improvement.
This season, the Packers are loaded defensively with returning impact players and new acquisitions. It seems that the weak areas have been filled with amazing athletes.
Expect a much-improved defense from the Packers this season.
Returning impact players
Many veteran players will return this season which is a huge reason why the Packers will increase production on defense.
The two-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Za’Darius Smith will be back again this season. Not only is Smith a powerhouse athlete, but his leadership is also an important aspect that motivates the entire defense. Other Green Bay defenders enjoy learning from him especially the younger players. Being the star player that he is, the defense’s success will greatly depend on Za’Darius Smith.
Preston Smith is another dynamic athlete who will also return this season. Many offenses struggle when the Smith Bros. are at their best. The overall production of the entire defense stems from their explosiveness.
Krys Barnes, who is entering his second NFL season, is another big playmaker for the defense. Barnes had a very impressive rookie season. It would not be surprising to see him go off this season as he is a hard hitter. The future is bright for the young linebacker.
Rashan Gary is another terrific edge rusher who will shine again for the Packers this season. Many expect greatness from him.
Jaire Alexander, Darnell Savage, and Adrian Amos are three notable players who will continue to be play a big part in the secondary. Alexander has been an absolute star at cornerback and was a second-team All-Pro in 2020. Wide receivers often struggle against him because of his excellent coverage.
Savage and Amos are also important players in the secondary as they use their agility to shut down offenses. Alexander, Savage, and Amos will use their leadership to improve the secondary this season.
Promising newcomers
While Green Bay already has plenty of talented defensive athletes, they have also added promising newcomers. The Packers made some terrific draft picks including the star cornerback from Georgia, Eric Stokes.
Many are excited about Stokes because of his great athleticism and amazing ability to cover the ball. Stokes’ hard work and determination will result in great success both individually and for the team as a whole. Not only will Stokes become a dynamic player for the Packers, he will also emerge as a top NFL cornerback.
Green Bay also signed big-time linebacker De’Vondre Campbell. Campbell is one of the most aggressive linebackers in the NFL today. His energy will greatly benefit the Packers. In an already stacked group of linebackers, Campbell will make an excellent addition to Green Bay’s defense.
With so much talent on the defensive side of the ball, there is absolutely no reason for the Packers to struggle defensively this season. Hopefully, Green Bay’s defense will live up to expectations and help the team reach their goal of winning another Super Bowl.