3 Packers Players Hurt the Most by Irregular NFL Offseason

Despite what their approach in the 2020 NFL Draft might articulate, the Green Bay Packers have grandiose expectations following their 13-3 record and appearance in the NFC Championship Game last season. For those aspirations to come to fruition, Matt LaFleur's side will need to be clicking on all cylinders from the get-go.

However, that might prove difficult due to the ambiguous circumstances regarding training camp and the preseason. The abnormal offseason is without a doubt going to hurt several players that are in need of a strong showing to prove their worth to the team.

The list would include incoming rookies, of course, but that's a given. Let's avoid stating the obvious and highlight three Packers that will be most impacted by this unprecedented time.

3. Devin Funchess

There might not be a more meticulous quarterback in the NFL than Aaron Rodgers. In other words, building a rapport with the two-time MVP doesn't happen overnight, and free agent signee Devin Funchess would normally need a full offseason to develop trust in Rodgers. The former second-round pick figures to be the Packers' No. 2 wide receiver in 2020, but don't be surprised if he struggles out of the gate. It's simply impossible to learn a new system, let alone one with the eight-time Pro Bowler under center, without getting on the field, and that's not entirely feasible right now.

2. Lane Taylor

It wasn't long ago that Lane Taylor was regarded as a core piece of Green Bay's offensive line. However, that billing has drastically changed over the last two campaigns. The 30-year-old vet started just two games in 2019 after suffering a biceps injury, and struggled in protection the season prior by conceding eight sacks and 36 pressures. In a contract year, Taylor needs to impress. Now, thanks to the peculiar offseason, Packers fans don't even know if he's healthy. We'd be shocked if he's all systems go for the start of camp.

1. Jace Sternberger

Packers fans are expecting a lot out of 2019 third-round pick Jace Sternberger in 2020. Injuries derailed his rookie season, as he made just six appearances, and there will be limited time for the 23-year-old tight end to prove that he's ready to become the starter. That leads us to believe that it will be a crapshoot between him, Marcedes Lewis, Robert Tonyan and 2020 third-rounder Josiah Deguara to nab first-team reps. Almost everything is working against Sternberger to make the Year 2 jump.