The Green Bay Packers came into the NFL offseason looking to make major moves on the defensive side of the football. Most important, the Packers wanted to add more pass rushing options. They were able to do that in free agency with Za'Darius Smith and Preston Smith, but also drafted one at No. 12 overall in the 2019 NFL Draft with Michigan's Rashan Gary.
Gary was not welcomed with open arms by the fans right off the bat. Many thought Green Bay should target some offensive weapons for Aaron Rodgers, but as time has gone on, fans have come around a bit.
He may not have put up major production at Michigan and there may be some concerns, but there is no denying the raw potential and body that Gary possesses. The reaction that he had to being drafted by the Packers was also emotional. There is no doubt that he is ready to work hard to become the best NFL player that he can be.
Green Bay may be targeting a similar unique role for Gary to the one that Julius Peppers had during his time in town. If that is the case, Gary will primarily be a pass rusher, but will also be asked to drop back in coverage schemes as well.
All of that being said, let's dive in and take a look at the three main goals that Gary should be focusing on this season as a rookie.
3. Play All 16 Games And Stay Healthy
Health has been an issue for Gary at times in his career and the Packers need him on the field. Playing all 16 games and staying healthy the whole season is a major goal. Gary is already back at work in the weight room trying to do everything in his power to get his body ready for the NFL.
Development will be key with Gary and he should get plenty of run in his first season. Assuming he stays healthy, Gary is going to have plenty of opportunities to learn the game on the fly.
2. Rack Up At Least Six Sacks
Gary is not going to be a lethal pass rushing threat from the second he steps on the field. He is going to learn the game and improve as the season moves forward. Coming through with at least six sacks would be a great start to his NFL career.
There is a strong chance that he could come up with more than six sacks, especially with all of the other pass rushing talent that Green Bay has on the roster. Even with that fact, the Packers would love to see their rookie get to the quarterback at least six times.
1. Learn Professionalism On and Off the Field
Finally, there have been question marks about Gary's love for the game and his motor. Brian Gutekunst does not have concerns about his motor, but it will still be vital to his future to learn from the veterans on the roster and improve his work ethic both on and off the field.
Both of the Smith's and veterans like Mike Daniels can take Gary under their wing. He needs to open up completely and learn from them as a rookie. His potential is through the roof and taking in everything he can from the veterans on the roster will help him unlock it fully.
Follow Us
Subscribe