5 Packers who have exceeded expectations after first month of season

Green Bay Packers defenders celebrate after a late fourth quarter interception by Green Bay Packers cornerback Eric Stokes (21) against the Pittsburgh Steelers during their football game on Sunday, October 3, 2021, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-WisconsinGreen Bay Packers' Shemar Jean-CharlesGreen Bay Packers linebacker Ty SummersGreen Bay Packers linebacker Chauncey RiversGreen Bay Packers' Kingsley KekeGreen Bay Packers' Oren BurksGreen Bay Packers' De'Vondre CampbellGreen Bay Packers' Chandon SullivanGreen Bay Packers' Vernon ScottApc Packers Vs Steelers 14010 100321wag /

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SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 26: Preston Smith #91 of the Green Bay Packers reacts after a hit during the second half against the San Francisco 49ers in the game at Levi’s Stadium on September 26, 2021 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

Packers who have exceeded expectations: Preston Smith

Following a disappointing 2020 campaign, it wasn’t clear how Preston Smith would respond in 2021. The good news is he set the tone early when he showed up to training camp slimmer than before and in great shape. And so far that’s paid dividends this season.

Sure, he’s not putting up the raw pass-rushing numbers from 2019, as he’s only accrued two sacks and eight total pressures through five games. However, he’s a much more complete player this season. He’s been elite against the run, earning a 90.2 run defense grade from PFF. This has been huge, as he’s sacrificing individual numbers for the betterment of the team. Green Bay is going to need a lot more of this, especially with Za’Darius Smith possibly out for the season.

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