The Green Bay Packers offense was a pleasant surprise during the 2023 NFL season. After trading four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers to the New York Jets to make way for Jordan Love, many predicted that Green Bay would finish at the bottom of their division. Not only did they have a first-year starter in Love, but they also had a pass catcher group made up of just first and second-year players.
Despite being the youngest offense in the NFL, Love led the Packers to a 9-8 record, Wild Card berth, and an upset win over the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL Playoffs. It was clear at that point that the future was very bright on that side of the ball.
The Same Could Not Be Said about the Green Bay Packers Defense
While Love and his young wide receivers and tight ends were out setting franchise records, the defense continued to be a source of frustration. Former defensive coordinator Joe Barry was never popular among fans, and his inability to make in-game adjustments began to frustrate players too.
Thanks to the heroics of 2023 seventh round pick Carrington Valentine and special teams ace Corey Ballentine, Green Bay’s passing defense ranked ninth in the NFL, allowing just 206.8 passing yards per game. Jaire Alexander and Eric Stokes missed a great deal of time due to injuries, forcing younger players into starting roles they otherwise would not have had.
The run defense, however, ranked 28th in the league, allowing 128.3 rushing yards per game.
At the end of the season, Barry was fired and replaced by Boston College head coach Jeff Hafley. The new defensive coordinator has reinvigorated that side of the ball and the star players on it.
So much so that one of their biggest stars believes they will be in the Super Bowl this season.
Green Bay Packers Cornerback Jaire Alexander Predicts Team Will Win the Super Bowl
Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander breaks up a pass intended for Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones during their football game on Sunday, December 9, 2018, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis.
Wm. Glasheen/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin.
After training camp practice on Tuesday, two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander met with the media. When asked about what the team’s potential is for 2024, he said: “I see us hoisting that Lombardi Trophy on my birthday February 9.”
Jaire Alexander’s prediction for #Packers in 2024 season: “I see us hoisting that Lombardi Trophy on my birthday February 9.” pic.twitter.com/dKXBkFc1R2
— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) July 30, 2024
The Packers have not won the Super Bowl since 2010, Rodgers’ third season as their starting quarterback.
Based on how the defense has spoken about their new coordinator ever since he was hired, it is easy to say why Alexander believes that.
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