7 bold predictions for Packers entering the 2023 season

6. Packers defense finishes top five in sacks

Green Bay has its deepest edge rusher group in years. GM Brian Gutekunst kept six on the initial 53-man roster, and he didn't have much choice. All of them earned their spot.

Rashan Gary's return from injury is significant, and the Packers have done a good job of surrounding him with more talent.

Preston Smith is a reliable and productive starter. First-round pick Lukas Van Ness adds power and athleticism to Green Bay's defense and he can line up across the front seven. Justin Hollins and Kingsley Enagbare both impressed last year. Undrafted rookie Brenton Cox forced the Packers to find room for him on the 53-man roster after an excellent preseason.

The best defenses rush the passer in waves with great depth. The Packers have that, and they will rank in the top five for sacks this season.

5. Packers trade Yosh Nijman

The Packers remain committed to five-time All-Pro David Bakhtiari. On the other side of the offensive line, second-year Zach Tom deservedly won a starting job.

Yosh Nijman was in the mix at right tackle, but second-year Rasheed Walker had seemingly overtaken him on the depth chart by the end of the preseason.

Having great tackle depth is hardly a problem. The Packers are lucky to have the amount of talent they do at a premium position. However, if Nijman is the fourth choice, it would make sense to take calls from other teams that desperately need a starter. And there would be no shortage of interest in Nijman if the Packers put him on the trade block.