The Green Bay Packers are embarking on a new era. After firing their head coach Mike McCarthy just four weeks into the season, the team decided to hire someone new. Something fresh. Someone intuitive.

They brought in Matt LaFleur from the Sean McVay coaching tree. Last season he was hired by the Tennesse Titans to be their offensive coordinator. This move indicated a change in culture within the organization.

Aaron Rodgers no longer has to rely on his freelance ability. He doesn't have to fit footballs in tight windows or scramble for a new possession on downs.

It's almost as if Julius Peppers retiring from the NFL is another landmark. A transition to one era of Packers football to another. Peppers was able to see Rodgers in his prime, using his athletic gifts to not only outplay opponents but to outsmart them as well.

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Peppers wrote in his Players Tribune piece:

“Just for being an all-time great player and teammate … and for making me believe that somehow, a Hail Mary can be a high-percentage throw. I’ve never seen anybody do some of the things you can do, man. I’m glad I had a front seat for some of it.”

Peppers retires as the NFL’s fourth all-time leader in sacks after 17 NFL seasons, three that he spent in Green Bay from 2014-16.

Peppers racked up 104 tackles, 25 sacks, eight forced fumbles and two interceptions returned for a touchdown in 48 regular-season appearances with the Packers. He was one of the fiercest pass rushers in the league.