The Green Bay Packers are entering the 2023 NFL season under a veil of mystery, sparking a cascade of burning questions that loom ominously over the franchise.
At the forefront of these uncertainties is the transition to a new era, with Jordan Love poised to take the reins as a first-year starter. The absence of a seasoned wide receiver on the roster, coupled with the heavy reliance on two rookie tight ends (a position notorious for requiring years to develop), only adds to the intrigue surrounding the offensive dynamics.
While the defensive unit offers fewer conundrums, doubts persist regarding its ability to live up to the extensive pre-season hype, despite the infusion of yet another first-round draft pick. Adding to the enigma is the special teams sector, where the Packers have introduced rookie talent in both kicking and punting roles, further amplifying the unknown.
In this landscape of unpredictability, we embark on a journey to dissect the four burning questions that loom over the Packers as they embark on their new season.
With the Green Bay Packers getting ready to kick off the 2023 NFL season, here are four burning questions that will define them.
How Will Matt LaFleur’s Offense Work?
During Matt LaFleur’s first four years as the Packers’ head coach, he often discussed the challenge of harmonizing his offensive principles with Aaron Rodgers’ distinct preferences. Given Rodgers’ stubbornness to run the offense in his own vision, LaFleur frequently had to make concessions to accommodate his quarterback’s style.
However, with Love now at the helm, the Packers’ offensive trajectory is set to shift. We can anticipate a more genuine version of LaFleur’s offensive philosophy. This likely involves a greater emphasis on short to intermediate routes using the middle of the field, a variety of crossing patterns, pre-snap motion to befuddle opposing defenses, and a concerted effort to involve playmakers early and often. It’s almost as if a new offensive coordinator has taken the reins, bringing in a fresh and distinctive offensive approach.
Can Packers Defense Hide Their Safeties?
The Packers are stacked with talent at almost every position on the field, except one – safety.
Throughout the preseason, there’s been a prolonged battle to determine who will start alongside Darnell Savage at the back of the secondary. This situation isn’t ideal, especially considering Savage’s subpar performance last season, where he ranked 87th out of 88 qualifying safeties according to PFF.
It’s still unclear whether Rudy Ford, Jonathan Owens, or rookie Anthony Johnson will secure the starting spot alongside Savage. It wouldn’t be surprising to see this position rotate throughout the season. The Packers lack a solid answer at safety this year and will likely need to use strategic tactics to minimize any potential weaknesses in this area.
Is Jordan Love Ready?
Love has been a preseason sensation, with experts showering him with compliments for his mastery of the offense, progression through reads, and calm presence in the pocket.
But the million-dollar question is whether this preseason prowess will seamlessly transition to regular-season success.
There were moments in exhibition play when Love failed to hit open targets, grappling with a nagging accuracy issue. This could spell trouble in the regular season, particularly if these misfires occur over the middle of the field, where precision is paramount.
Another looming challenge is that this season marks Love’s first rodeo as the full-time starter. After four years in the shadows, he’ll be thrust into the spotlight for a grueling NFL campaign. How he navigates an entire season’s physical and mental rigors will be pivotal in shaping the Packers’ short-term fortunes and long-term trajectory.
Will Packers’ Defense Play Up To Expectations?
Joe Barry has been the mastermind behind underwhelming defensive seasons in Green Bay, a budding tradition for this group of players. Can they finally turn that narrative on it’s head this season?
The Packers used their first-round pick on Lukas Van Ness, giving them eight first-rounders on this unit–Van Ness, Devonte Wyatt, Quay Walker, Savage, Rashan Gary, Jaire Alexander, Kenny Clark and Eric Stokes. At some point, those players must begin living up to their collective draft position regardless of the defensive coordinator.
It will be essential for this unit to carry the load early on. It will likely take some time for Love to adjust to the game and settle in. The D can’t afford an up-and-down performance like we’ve been accustomed to over the last several years.