3 former Aaron Rodgers teammates that Packers need to bring back for 2021

1. Clay Matthews

If Rodgers does plan on making one last run with the Packers, there is perhaps no one better to return then edge rusher Clay Matthews. In fact, Matthews was one of the players Rodgers name-dropped during his aforementioned press conference.

Back in 2009, the Packers used a first-round selection on Matthews, and he certainly lived up to the hype. Through his 10-years in Green Bay, Matthews recorded 482 combined tackles (121 for loss), 189 quarterback hits, 83.5 sacks, 41 defended passes, 15 forced fumbles (five recoveries), six interceptions and three defensive touchdowns. Furthermore, Matthews was named to six Pro Bowls and helped the Packers win Super Bowl 45 back in 2010.

At the conclusion of the 2018 season, Matthews hit unrestricted free agency and signed on with the Los Angeles Rams on a two-year deal. Matthews played in 13 regular-season games with the Rams, where he posted 37 total tackles, 11 quarterback hits, eight sacks, three defended passes and two forced fumbles. He was released at the end of that campaign and has been a free agent ever since.

While yes, the Packers do have their pass rushing starters all set with the likes of Za’Darius Smith, Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, it never hurts to have some quality depth. It would be very fitting to see the Packers bring Matthews for one “Last Dance.”