Fansided

Each NFL team’s biggest reason to be excited in 2018

By Brad Berreman

BEREA, OH - JULY 30: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns throws a pass during a training camp practice on July 30, 2018 at the Cleveland Browns training facility in Berea, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images/Getty Images)
BEREA, OH - JULY 30: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns throws a pass during a training camp practice on July 30, 2018 at the Cleveland Browns training facility in Berea, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images/Getty Images) /
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Mandatory Credit: Larry Radloff-Icon Sportswire/ Getty Images
Mandatory Credit: Larry Radloff-Icon Sportswire/ Getty Images /

Green Bay Packers – The return of Aaron Rodgers

The idea of a great quarterback being a “great deodorant” (h/t to John Madden) was on full display in Green Bay last year. They started the season 4-1, before Rodgers suffered a fractured collarbone against the rival Minnesota Vikings early in Week 6 and essentially missed 10 games. They proceeded to go 3-8 after Rodgers was sidelined, with the obvious drop-off to Brett Hundley under center.

Rodgers returned in Week 15 against the Carolina Panthers, when there was still a slim chance for the Packers to make the playoffs. But a loss in that game put that hope officially to bed, and Rodgers was officially done for the year.

With Ted Thompson out, new general manager Brian Gutekunst had a more aggressive approach this offseason. Mostly notably, Jimmy Graham was signed to give the Packers a notable weapon at tight end for the first time since Jermichael Finley.

Rodgers is back to take his place as arguably the most talented quarterback in the NFL this year. The defense might improve some, with a new coordinator (Mike Pettine) and a fresh approach. But any excitement about (or hope for) another (overdue) Super Bowl run with Rodgers under center rests firmly on the healthy return of the quarterback.

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