NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 28, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end B.J. Raji (90) against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports /

Green Bay Packers – B.J. Raji

Why is he the pick?

Frankly, there are not too many question marks on the Packers heading into 2015, so Raji stuck out in the crowd. With Aaron Rodgers and an all-star cast around him, the offense is going to remain one of the most prolific in the league. However, the defensive line could see some problems with Letroy Guion suspended for the first three games and Raji coming off an injury.

Last year, Raji tore his right bicep in the preseason and missed all of the campaign. Coming back in 2015, Raji is expected to hold down the nose tackle again as he did when the Packers won the Super Bowl in 2010. Raji had not been the same player even before the injury, struggling to get the same push as he did in his younger years out of Boston College.

What is at stake?

Stuffing the run. If there is one area where the Packers could have a tough time on the field this year, it is against running teams. At inside linebacker, Jake Ryan and Sam Barrington are not making a Pro Bowl anytime soon. If Raji can’t eat up double-teams on the inside and allows for guards to consistently get out and take them one-on-one, it could be a major issue.

Next: Detroit Lions

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