3 Bold Predictions for the Packers Heading Into 2019 Season

Matt LaFleur's first season as head coach of the Green Bay Packers begins Thursday night at Soldier Field against the Chicago Bears as he attempts to lead the Pack into the playoffs for the first time since the 2016.

Being that it's his first season at the helm, there is bound to be a profusion of surprises up and down Green Bay's roster. With that in mind, let's highlight three bold predictions for the franchise heading into the new regime.

3. Davante Adams Finally Leads the League in TD Receptions

Arizona Cardinals v Green Bay Packers / Dylan Buell/Getty Images

Davante Adams has eclipsed 10 receiving touchdowns in each of the last three seasons, but 2019 will FINALLY be the year in which he leads the NFL in that elusive category. The Fresno State product firmly established himself as one of the best wideouts with a breakout campaign in 2018, logging 111 receptions for 1,386 yards and 13 scores. Antonio Brown led the league in 2018, but he's now a part of Oakland's slow-paced offense. Expect Adams to leapfrog the likes of Michael Thomas and DeAndre Hopkins in a tight TD race.

2. Za’Darius Smith Becomes an Elite NFC North Sack Artist

Green Bay Packers v Baltimore Ravens / Todd Olszewski/Getty Images

Make no mistake about it, folks, Za'Darius Smith is going to break out even more so in Green Bay in 2019. After compiling 8.5 sacks, 45 tackles, and 25 quarterback hits for the Ravens last year, the Packers signed him to a four-year, $66 million contract in March. Desperate to win over the crowd at Lambeau Field and live to his big-money deal, expect the Kentucky product to FEAST up front for his new franchise.

1. Aaron Jones Makes Pro Bowl With Ease

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Yes, it's a big if. But if Aaron Jones can remain healthy, he will etch his name as one of the NFL's elite running backs. If available for all 16 games, there's no reason to believe he cant eclipse 1,000 rushing yards, more than 10 rushing touchdowns, and be a major asset for Aaron Rodgers in the passing game. Let's not forget that he's averaged a stellar 5.5 yards per carry on 214 rushes in his two seasons with the Pack and is heading into his first full season as the true bell-cow.