As Aaron Rodgers is awaking from the darkness, the Packers are putting together a game plan for this off-season. The Packers are on the cusp of a restart. This roster has a young QB in Jordan Love, that has shown flashes of greatness, wide receivers who had the high of highs and the low of lows, and a defense that can compete now.
The Packers have one thing looming over their heads. The Aaron Rodgers saga continues for another off-season. This year it is looking like the end. Many believe the Packers will trade Rodgers to the Jets or the Raiders. Both would be perfect for the Packers as they can officially start retooling this team. With Rodgers gone, Love will be given the keys to this offense. The Packers will have lost their best WR and franchise QB in two off-seasons. Entering a rebuild, other guys might want out. Another Aaron could be cut or traded, Aaron Jones. Jones getting traded or cut would allow A.J. Dillion and a late-round rookie to take over the backfield. Jones’ production has decreased over the past few years, with Dillon’s rising, so this move should benefit the team.
The draft is where the Packers will upgrade this roster in a big way. The Packers currently hold the 15th pick and will be able to get an offensive weapon. Michael Mayer is significantly mock-drafted in this range, as are all of the top receivers, Quentin Johnston, Jordan Addison, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. These receivers could step in along with Romeo Doubs and Christian Watson, creating a young and talented receiving core for years. After selecting a skills player in the first round (unheard of for the Packers), they can bolster their defensive and offensive line for the remainder of the draft.
The trade value of Rodgers is yet to be seen as he ages and maintains a massive contract. It is hard to see him going for anything less than two second-round picks, and he might be worth a first next year and a second this year. The Raiders have the 38th pick and would benefit from a trade for Rodgers. If the Packers acquire this pick, many defenders in this range will be available and could help this defense. Corner, edge, and tackle could all be selected here.
Once the Packers land a solid offensive weapon and an excellent defensive piece, they must find an Aaron Jones long-term replacement. Devon Achane would be the perfect compliment back to A.J. Dillion. With Dillion doing his work in the middle, Achane is a back that can break things out to the sideline and be off the races. He will test out incredible at the combine but still be considered a day-two pick. Achane could be a steal for this Packers team.
Regardless of the moves the Packers make, the season will ultimately rest on the shoulders of Jordan Love. Love has the potential to be an outstanding QB in this league. However, with little to no action since being drafted, there is an unknown of how he will produce. Giving him as many weapons as possible and an offensive line to protect him will be crucial to his success. The Packers will still find a way to win games with this defense, but their offense determines whether they make the playoffs.