Green Bay Packers Still Contenders Without Jordy Nelson

Jan 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Clay Matthews (52) tackles Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during the fourth quarter in the NFC Championship Game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Defense

If the Packers offense takes a step back at all, it will be a tiny one that still lands them in the top five. There are plenty of reasons to believe the Packers defense will be much improved from last year. They spent a first round pick on Damarious Randall and he looks like he’s going to work out well at corner.

Quinten Rollins was their 2nd-round pick for depth behind Sam Shields Casey Hayward and Randall. Injured-in-2014 nose tackle B.J. Raji is coming back to solve their woes against the run in 2014. Also to help against the run, inside linebackers Sam Barrington and Nate Palmer were promoted to starters.

That means Clay Matthews, one of the best edge rushers in the NFL, can go back to what he does best. Mathews had to move to inside linebacker last year to help against the Packers against the run. He’ll be rejoining ageless wonder Julius Peppers, who will be coming off the edge on the other side to complete a very stout defense.

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