Green Bay Packers: 5 units that can give them trouble in 2018-19

2. Minnesota Vikings Defense

Mike Zimmer knows how to handle Aaron Rodgers. Ever since his time in Cincinnati, Zimmer has been known as the Rodgers whisperer for his ability to give Rodgers fits. This might be his most talented defense that he’s ever had. Their first round pick Mike Hughes is currently slated to be their fifth cornerback when he could push for a starting job with other teams. Both of his safeties were top 15 per Pro Football Focus. The secondary is one of the NFL’s best.

At linebacker, their worst starter was Anthony Barr, who still made the Pro Bowl last season. All three of their starters can cover tight ends and running backs well, while being strong against the run. Rodgers broke his collarbone on a (now illegal) hit from Barr last season. Rodgers won’t be out for revenge, but those linebackers will still be coming for him hard.

Finally, when looking at the defensive line, they pose matchup problems nearly everywhere for the Packers, other than against All-Pro left tackle David Bakhtiari. Their front four, with the addition of Sheldon Richardson, could be the best in all of football. They start four players that can blow up an entire play at any given time. Brian Robison comes off the bench to provide even more punch. The Packers get the Vikings at home in week two. That home field advantage will be huge for them.