Packers: 3 bold predictions for season opener vs. Saints

Amari Rodgers returns a punt for a touchdown

Let’s take a trip down memory lane. It was the regular-season opener in 2011. The Packers met the Saints at Lambeau Field. With the game still delicately poised, rookie wide receiver Randall Cobb took a kickoff return 108 yards for a touchdown. Talk about making an impact on debut.

Fast forward 10 years. Not only have the Packers just brought back Cobb via trade, but they drafted a slot receiver, Amari Rodgers. Cobb has been a mentor for Rodgers over the years, and Rodgers said Cobb was like a “big brother” to him. Rodgers had also drawn comparisons to Cobb before he was drafted by the Packers.

Not only does he play in the slot and is great after the catch, Rodgers is also a talented returner.

Rodgers doesn’t often return kickoffs, but he was a regular on punt returns for Clemson. It’s a role he’s secured with the Packers this summer. At college, Rodgers returned 68 punts, one of which he took the distance.

How fitting would it be for Rodgers to follow in Cobb’s footsteps and take one to the house. On debut. Against the Saints. With Cobb also making his second debut for the Packers.

Rodgers is going to have a role to play for the Packers this season, both on offense and special teams. How about a return TD in the opener?