Green Bay Packers: Week 1 Watch

Aug 29, 2015; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The Man Behind Center                    

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is eager to get back on the field and step away from the “meaningless” preseason action, as he so eloquently stated. As you all know, he only played in two games this preseason. He threw 19 passes against New England and just five against Pittsburgh.

One would think that maybe he needs to get into game shape or at least get a feel for his new receivers. After all, his favorite target is out for the year and we still do not know whether Randall Cobb is 100% healthy, optimistic as he may be. Of course it helps that receiver James Jones is back in the fold (more on this later) and Davante Adams was beginning to build a rapport with Rodgers towards the end of last season. However, we are talking about the returning MVP and if he states he is ready, then we had better believe him.

Perhaps by midseason, and barring any injuries, the team will have a clearer outlook on the wide receiver depth chart. This may be the season that Jeff Janis finally makes an impact after being heralded as a burner by the coaching staff. Second-year players Adams and tight end Richard Rodgers also have had a full offseason and training camp with the team and they are expected to carry a heavier load this season in the passing game.

Eddie Lacy’s impact should also not be overlooked as he looks to build on his first two years in the league. His success will greatly benefit Rodgers especially when it comes to running the play action. Rodgers was hobbling on one leg so often last year that fans may have forgotten how masterful he can be as a mobile quarterback. Having a threat in the backfield will keep the defense honest and take some pressure off the younger pass catchers.

Next: Keeping Up With the Jones