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5 bold predictions for Packers in 2019

By Rucker Haringey

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 30: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers drops back to pass in the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field on December 30, 2018 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 30: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers drops back to pass in the first quarter against the Detroit Lions at Lambeau Field on December 30, 2018 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /
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BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – JANUARY 06: Za’Darius Smith #90 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts after blocking a field goal against Mike Badgley #4 of the Los Angeles Chargers during the third quarter in the AFC Wild Card Playoff game at M&T Bank Stadium on January 06, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – JANUARY 06: Za’Darius Smith #90 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts after blocking a field goal against Mike Badgley #4 of the Los Angeles Chargers during the third quarter in the AFC Wild Card Playoff game at M&T Bank Stadium on January 06, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

2. Za’Darius Smith will post 12 sacks

Giving Smith a four-year, $66 million deal this offseason certainly illustrates the faith the Packers have in the 26-year-old edge rusher. Expect him to make that contract look like a bargain with a massive first season in Green Bay.

Smith only managed 8.5 sacks for the Ravens last year, but he’s never gotten an opportunity to be his team’s primary edge rusher before. The Packers will absolutely give him that chance. He should be on the field during every passing down to pressure the opposing quarterback.

He’s got the size and athleticism to turn into a Pro Bowler for Green Bay. LaFleur’s 3-4 defensive alignment is going to give him the freedom to make plays all over the field. Don’t expect him to drop into coverage very often though. The Packers front office gave him a big deal to make plays in the opposing backfield.

The one threat to Smith making this prediction come true is the lack of established pass rushers around him. Mike Daniels and Preston Smith will need to prove they can generate consistent pressure too. If all three guys can play well, Za’Darius Smith is going to have a massive year.

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