Green Bay Packers: 5 Bold predictions for the 2020 season
By Joe Kipp
Green Bay Packers bold prediction No. 5: Rashan Gary records at least 8 sacks
After being drafted 12th overall in 2019, outside linebacker Rashan Gary had a disappointing rookie season relative to his draft status. As a first-round pick, many expected Gary to provide a quick impact. He finished last season with two sacks and 13 solo tackles after playing just a minimal role.
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Luckily, the Packers didn’t need him to provide a huge impact. Za’Darius and Preston Smith combined for 25.5 sacks in their inaugural season in Green Bay, which meant the Packers didn’t need to rely on Gary to step up.
All indications from training camp have shown that Gary could be ready to take a step forward heading into Year 2. Day after day, Packers beat writers reported how quick, agile and unblockable Gary was in practice. After an offseason to fully heal his shoulder and get his body right, it appears Gary is ready for a heavier workload.
I’m predicting Gary will finish the season with at least eight sacks, which is a tall task considering how much playing time he got last season. Defensive coordinator Mike Pettine has stated multiple times that Gary will be a huge part of Green Bay’s defense this coming season. If the talent can meet the production, opposing quarterbacks could be in a lot of trouble.