4 biggest surprises for Packers at quarter mark of 2022 NFL season

On paper, the Green Bay Packers appear to be off to a nice start this season. They are tied for the second-best record in the NFL at 3-1 and have beaten a couple of likely playoff teams.

In reality, they have a lot of work to do if they want to achieve their ultimate goal of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy at the end of the season. The offense has struggled at times and has at least one turnover in every game this season. The defense hasn’t been as dominant as they were billed to be in the preseason and is leaking yards on the ground.

It’s not all doom and gloom in Titletown, as there have been plenty of promising developments. This team should improve throughout the season and are nowhere near their final form. Let’s take a look at four pleasant surprises a quarter of the way (or close enough that it doesn’t matter) into the season.

Here are the four biggest surprises for the Green Bay Packers at the quarter mark of their 2022 NFL season.

Aaron Jones

Jones had a down 2021 campaign when he averaged a career-low 4.7 yards per rush and only finished the season with 799 yards on the ground. That led many to speculate AJ Dillon’s emergence in the backfield would lead to even more time for Dillon and fewer carries for Jones.

However, Jones is on one to begin this season. He looks as explosive as ever, as he’s been a playmaker on the ground and through the air. He’s averaging 6.8 yards per carry (his previous career-high is 5.5) and the Packers’ offense is thriving off him.

Rashan Gary

Gary was expected to take another leap this season, but he’s been downright dominant so far. He has at least one sack in every game and is tied for second in the NFL with five total sacks. He showed off his pass-rushing dominance against the Patriots when he simultaneously strip-sacked Bailey Zappe and recovered the fumble. Now, if only he can set the edge on a run.

Randall Cobb

Cobb has turned back the clock to begin the season and looks as spry as ever. He’s not getting as much playing time–only appearing on the field for 41 percent of the offense’s plays, a career-low. When he is out there, he’s explosive and making guys miss after the catch. He’s caught 10 of his 12 targets for 150 yards and is averaging a career-high 6.6 yards after the catch per reception. It’s like Toby Keith said, “I’m not as good as I once was, but I’m as good once as I ever was.”

Romeo Doubs

Doubs has built on his strong training camp and preseason and continues to produce plays. Yes, he has some mistakes that cost the Packers points, but the good has outweighed the bad. He continues to get separation on routes and has shown excellent speed to make plays happen. He also uses his hands well to catch the ball at the point of attack. There’s a lot of room for growth, but it’s been a great start so far.