As the Green Bay Packers enter the unpredictability of the rest of this summer, continuity will be key to success. Teams who have established relationships within the locker room, the coaching staff, and the organization as a whole will have a huge competitive advantage. Thankfully, Green Bay returns every major coach. Internal development from players and staff is now more important than ever.
Oren Burks: Jordy Nelson, Desmond Bishop, and Kyler Fackrell all took a big leap in year 3. Burks could be the next in line. With Christian Kirksey in the fold, and set to start, Burks will have to compete to see the field next season. However, Packers fans have to remember Kirksey’s lengthy injury history. Should anything befall the former Brown, Burks needs to ready to make the leap. By now, Burks should be well versed in Mike Pettine’s scheme. Execution and consistency are what separates the great from the good in the NFL, and Oren Burks will need to display both in training camp for this prediction to come true.
Kingsley Keke: An interior penetrator, Keke should be unleashed in 2020. Primed to take a 2nd year jump, the Texas A&M product could easily win himself a starting spot in camp. He may not have a Mike Daniels 6 1/2 sack second year, but looked explosive at the end of 2019. His attacking prowess from the inside could pay dividends with the Smith brothers and Rashan Gary attacking from the outside. Kenny Clark’s running mate on passing downs is already on the roster.
Equanimeuous St. Brown: While he missed all of 2019 with a high ankle sprain, the former sixth rounder averaged over 16 yards per catch as a rookie. St. Brown should get a chance at more big plays in 2020. He could become the explosive, downfield weapon in Matt Lafleur’s offense. Green Bay didn’t need to reach for an explosive receiver in the draft, St. Brown is already in Titletown.
There are plenty of breakthrough candidates heading into next season. Depth contributions are absolutely integral in order for the Green Bay Packers to reach the promise land. Let us hope we’re able to see it all play out.
Nick is a lifelong Packers fan. 4th and 26 was on his 13th birthday, unlucky. Follow him @CANDRAFTGEEK647 on Twitter for all your Packers draft needs and questions.