Packers: 3 breakout candidates due for big 2021 season

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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – DECEMBER 15: Linebacker Rashan Gary #52 of the Green Bay Packers reacts to a defensive stop in the game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field on December 15, 2019 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

Packers’ breakout candidate 2. Rashan Gary

Rashan Gary’s impressive 2020 campaign was certainly noticed by Packers’ fans, but I’m not sure how much attention it garnered nationally. At just 23-years-old entering his third NFL season, Gary is an elite physical specimen that has the physical tools to dominate his position. He’s fast enough to get around the corner and beat the offensive tackle off the snap. He’s also strong enough to set the edge and go through his man when necessary.

Gary began putting those tools together in Year 2 and he’ll be even better in Year 3. New defensive coordinator Joe Barry has discussed ways to get Gary on the field with the two elder statesmen at his position–Za’Darius Smith and Preston Smith.

Gary took a noticeable step forward last year, seeing his PFF grade jump immensely as well as his playing time and counting stats. After recording two sacks in his rookie season and five in 2020, don’t be surprised to see that number take another big leap to double digits in 2021.

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