The Green Bay Packers have had an eventful offseason that included constant rumors about quarterback Aaron Rodgers. It was unknown for a period of time whether Rodgers would be traded or retire throughout the offseason, but he eventually reported to training camp.
The Packers have gone 13-3 the last two seasons but lost in 2 straight NFC Championship Games.
They will try to make a Super Bowl run in what could be Rodgers last season with the Packers.
The Packers added depth at the receiver position by trading for former team receiver Randall Cobb. This move will help Rodgers and the offense to elevate even more in the 2021-22 season.
The Packers have also had some players step up during training camp. Here are 3 pleasant surprises standing out for the Packers early in the 2021 NFL training camp.
Packers standouts:
3. Linebacker De'Vondre Campbell
De'Vondre Campbell has shined in camp so far and has been getting number one reps. Campbell was signed by the Packers back in June and looks bound to be a starting linebacker next to Krys Barnes.
“De’Vondre has been lights out. He’s done a great job. I think he’s done a really nice job of picking up what we’re asking him to do at a quick rate,” coach Matt LaFleur said.
The Packers have had a weakness at inside linebacker over the past few seasons, but the duo of Campbell and Barnes could fix that problem.
Look for Campbell to have a great season after standing out in training camp.
2. Center Josh Myers
Rookie center Josh Myers has impressed many people in the Packers organization. Myers was selected in the second round by the Packers as a replacement to Corey Linsley. The Pack didn't have a ton of cap space and had to let the Pro Bowl center walk in free agency.
Myers has looked strong in training camp gaining compliments from quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
“For a guy to come in, as a draft pick, as a rookie, and be that comfortable – it’s pretty impressive,” Rodgers said. “He’s very comfortable with the system, comfortable in his own skin. And he’s a big fella. He’s probably the biggest center I’ve had in front of me. I like the way he’s stepped in and controlled the huddle and the calls the first four days.”
Getting praise from Rodgers as a rookie center is huge, and he should have a big impact on the Packers' offense this season.
1. Wide receiver Juwann Winfree
The standout everyone has been talking about is wide receiver, Juwann Winfree. He now has a shot at making the roster, even in a stacked wide receiver room. Winfree's release off the line of scrimmage has made him tough for any cornerback on the roster to cover.
Most impressive thing in WRs vs. CBs 1 on 1s is watching WR Juwann Winfree’s get off at the line of scrimmage. Super quick.
— Tom Silverstein (@TomSilverstein) August 3, 2021
Head coach Matt LaFleur gave compliments on Winfree's improvement in camp.
“I think Juwann’s done a lot of great things,” LaFleur said. “I think he’s kind of picked up where he left off in the offseason program and OTAs. Obviously being with us throughout the course of the season last year definitely laid a good foundation for him so he understands what the expectations are.”
The wide receiver group is loaded, and Winfree's emergence will make decisions tough for the front office. Look for Winfree to make the roster and get some playing time this season.
With Rodgers back, the Packers are primed to be a Super Bowl contender once again.
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