After finishing the 2023 NFL season on a high note with a 6-2 run and a significant playoff win, the Green Bay Packers have set lofty expectations for 2024. Following their Sunday Night Football triumph over the Kansas City Chiefs, the Packers caught the league’s attention, going on a run and capping it off with an impressive victory against the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC Wildcard Round.
Despite a heartbreaking loss to the San Francisco 49ers in a thrilling finish, Green Bay proved themselves as one of the NFC’s top contenders. With the buzz surrounding the Packers’ potential, training camp is full of anticipation. The upcoming camp could reveal early indicators of whether they can elevate their performance to new heights this season.
Here are the five most important storylines to keep an eye on.
Will Jordan Love Get Extended?
All eyes in Green Bay are fixated on Jordan Love’s potential extension. The Packers opted against his fifth-year option, instead offering him a one-year deal in 2023 worth up to $22.5 million.
Love’s debut season as the starting quarterback was stellar, silencing critics of his 2020 draft selection. Finishing seventh in the NFL for passing yards and second in passing touchdowns, Love’s impressive stats underline his potential.
In the playoffs, his 466 yards and five touchdowns over two games showcased his clutch performance. It’s clear: Love is the franchise quarterback. Now, the Packers need to secure his future.
Which WR Stands Out?
The 2023 season highlighted the depth and talent within the Packers’ wide receiver corps.
Jayden Reed was the most productive, excelling particularly from the slot and providing a reliable option for Jordan Love across the middle.
Dontavyion Wicks, despite being a lesser-known name, displayed impressive skills in man coverage and after-catch prowess.
Meanwhile, Christian Watson’s explosive potential remains tantalizing, though his injury history raises concerns. If he can stay healthy, his big-play potential can help spread out defenses, making it easier for Love to find open targets
Romeo Doubs, though the least efficient, led the team in targets and offered a blend of size and red zone dominance.
Is Josh Jacobs Back to Form?
The offseason saw the Packers make a bold move by signing Josh Jacobs after releasing Aaron Jones, despite Jones having a respectable 4.6 yards-per-carry in 2023.
Jacobs, conversely, had the least efficient season of his career, averaging only 3.5 yards-per-carry and amassing 805 rushing yards—down from his 1,653-yard career high in 2022.
Questions loom about Jacobs’ diminished quickness and ability to hit holes. However, his contract allows Green Bay flexibility, including an option to cut him after 2025 with minimal penalty.
With Marshawn Lloyd waiting in the wings, Jacobs must prove he’s back to his peak form.
Where Will Jordan Morgan Play?
With their first-round pick, the Packers selected versatile OL Jordan Morgan out of Arizona. A three-year starter at left tackle for the Wildcats, Morgan’s flexibility across the offensive line makes him a valuable asset.
Despite his smaller size for an NFL tackle, his productivity cannot be overlooked. While Elgton Jenkins and Zach Tom are locked into starting roles, left tackle and right guard are viable options for Morgan.
Whether he continues at left tackle or transitions to right guard, Morgan’s position will be a key storyline to watch during training camp. His rookie performance could significantly impact the Packers’ offensive line dynamics.
Safety Rooms and LB Revitalized
Improving the run defense was a clear focus for the Packers, who ranked 28th in the league for yards allowed in 2023. To address this, they made a significant splash by signing safety Xavier McKinney to a four-year, $68 million deal, providing stability alongside second-round pick Javon Bullard.
They further bolstered the safety position by drafting Evan Williams and Kitan Oladipo. The linebacker room also saw crucial upgrades: Edgerrin Cooper, drafted 45th overall, and Ty’Ron Hopper, taken just a round later, joined the roster.
The Bottom Line
Training camp is a crucial time for the Packers to make final roster decisions and determine the direction of their season. With key storylines like Love’s extension, the WR competition, Jacobs’ return to form, Morgan’s role on the offensive line, and the revamped safety and linebacker rooms, there is no shortage of excitement for Packers fans.
Expect the next season to be full of surprises and plenty of action as the Packers strive to reach their ultimate goal: winning the Super Bowl. And don’t forget to keep an eye on the odds from online sportsbook platforms because this could be the year for Green Bay.
