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The Green Bay Packers are set to take on the Houston Texans to open their preseason schedule this week. After a long offseason, fans could not be more excited to see football once again. A start of a new era of football is about to begin within the proud franchise.
Matt LaFleur has taken over the head coaching job and there was a lot of roster turnover this offseason. Clay Matthews and Randall Cobb both decided to leave town in free agency, while Mike Daniels was released prior to the start of training camp. Green Bay went out and signed names like Adrian Amos, Preston and Za'Darius Smith, and Billy Turner in free agency.
In addition to free agency, the Packers came away with a very solid NFL Draft class. The first two picks, Rashan Gary and Darnell Savage, are both expected to get a lot of playing time as rookies.
While preseason doesn't give fans a long look at starters, there are players that have to perform well in order to make the roster. It is also a chance for fans to get their first look at young players who could become impact players in the future.
All of that being said, let's dive in and take a look at three players to watch for the Packers in their preseason opener against the Texans.
3. Ka'dar Hollman, Cornerback
As we have previously reported, Hollman has been turning heads in camp so far for the Packers. He was drafted with the No. 185 pick in the 2019 draft in the sixth round. Many didn't think much of him, but he has a decent chance to make the final roster if he plays well in the preseason.
Standing in at 6-foot-0 and 195 pounds, Hollman has good strength, speed, and intelligence. He has the work ethic to make something of himself as well. Green Bay is really high on Hollman and he will likely get a good amount of playing time this week.
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2. Rashan Gary, Linebacker/Pass Rusher
It's unknown what Gary's full role will be within Mike Pettine's defense. He is known as a pass rusher, but there are quite a few pass rushers that could bump Gary into another role. More than likely, however, Gary will be used as an outside linebacker to rush the passer or as a pass rushing interior lineman.
Gary was drafted with the No. 12 overall pick in the 2019 draft and will be able to make an immediate impact. Fans were split on how to react to his selection, but they are coming around to him. It will be entertaining to see him take the field for the first time as a member of the Packers.
1. Dexter Williams, Running Back
Finally, Dexter Williams rounds out the trio of rookies that the Packers' fan base should be keeping a close eye on in Week 1 of the preseason. Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams have been missing time in camp, which has given Williams a chance for an increased role.
Williams was taken in the sixth round of the draft with the No. 194 overall pick out of Notre Dame, but could end up being a major steal. His style of play fits nicely into LaFleur's offense. This week, Williams has a good chance to play a lot and the Packers are going to enjoy seeing how he runs and the passion he brings to the gridiron.
