Three reasons to be optimistic about the Green Bay Packers

It’s safe to assume that 2022 did not go according to plan for the Green Bay Packers. The team’s 8-9 finish was just its fifth losing season since 2000, and it’s just the third time since Aaron Rodgers took over as the full-time starter in 2008 that he didn’t log 10 or more wins in a season that he started at least 15 games.

Trading Davante Adams proved to be a big mistake (Green Bay fell from the eight-ranked passing offense to the 17th), and failing to invest in beefing up the front seven resulted in the No. 26-ranked run defense.

For as underwhelming as 2022 was, there are still a few things to look forward to next season. Below are three reasons for the Packers to be optimistic heading into 2023:

1. The quarterback conundrum will be settled by the start of the season

The biggest question Packers fans want answered is who will be under center next year. Rodgers has been noncommittal about his playing future, and once he returns from his darkness retreat, there should be a little more clarity there.

Conversely, Jordan Love’s future hinges on what Rodgers decides to do. Should Rodgers stay in Green Bay, Love has made it clear he would likely ask for a trade. If Rodgers wants out, then the Packers get a full season of Love as a starter to decide whether or not they want to pick up his fifth-year option and possibly commit to him long-term.

Either way, this seemingly never-ending soap opera should be settled by the time the draft rolls around.

2. Signs point to investment in offense

Adams’ absence was quite evident from the jump, and Rodgers really struggled to find any sort of consistency. He failed to throw for 300 yards in any game, his 12 interceptions were the second-most he’s thrown in a single season, his 91.1 passer rating was the lowest of his career and his 10.6 yards per completion were his lowest since becoming Green Bay’s starter.

However, the Packers appear to be invested on turning the offense around. They restructured the contract of running back Aaron Jones to reduce his 2023 cap hit and signed guard Elgton Jenkins to a four-year extension in December. Most draft experts are convinced they’ll use their first-round pick on an offensive weapon, with tight end and receiver the most popular predictions among mock drafts.

3. Year 2 of Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs

Outside of a four-game stretch in which he scored seven touchdowns, Watson left a lot to be desired during his rookie year. Sure, those seven touchdowns led the team, but he finished second in yards (611) and fifth in receptions (41) and targets (66).

Doubs, a fellow rookie, didn’t exactly set the world on fire either. His stats were just a step above Watson’s (42 receptions, 67 targets, 425 yards, three TDs), and he struggled to put together consistent performances.

However, both have a full year in Green Bay’s offense, and both know what is expected of them. If Rodgers remains the QB, both already have a solid rapport with him to build from. If it’s Love, then both have the summer to find a rhythm with their new QB. Watson and Doubs flashed their potential, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see either ascend to the top of the depth chart.