In the 12th of a 32-part series, we are featuring all National Football League teams with a prediction of where each team will finish within their division, key off-season acquisitions and their top fantasy stars. Here are the Green Bay Packers.
Key Off Season Acquisitions
The Packers made two massive free agent signings in the offseason. One move came on offense, and the other on defense. The Packers signed Josh Jacobs of Tulsa, Oklahoma to a four-year deal worth $48 million. At $12 million per year, Jacobs is the highest paid running back in NFL free agency. In 2023, Jacobs had 805 rushing yards, six rushing touchdowns, and had 37 catches for 296 receiving yards. A two-time Pro Bowler, Jacobs was selected in 2020 and 2022. Two years ago Jacobs led the NFL with 1653 rushing yards and 2053 yards from scrimmage.
On defense, the Packers signed safety Xavier McKinney of Roswell, Georgia to a four-year deal worth $67 million after playing four seasons with the New York Giants. In 2023, he had 116 tackles (78 solo tackles and 38 assisted tackles), two tackles for a loss, one quarterback hit, three interceptions for 22 yards, 11 pass deflections, two fumble recoveries for seven yards and half a sack. The fumble recoveries came in Giants wins. The first for seven yards in a 31-19 Giants win over the Washington Commanders on November 19, and the second in a 24-22 Giants win over the Green Bay Packers on December 11.
Fantasy Star
Jacobs is ranked ninth among running backs to start the season. Expect him to be a top five back at the end of the year. Green Bay used Aaron Jones significantly in their offense over the last seven years before joining the Minnesota Vikings in the offseason, and he was a very consistent running back when it came to fantasy football.
Projected Finish
The Packers are moving into the 2024 NFL season with momentum. Yes, they played poorly in the first half of 2023, as they only won thrice in nine games. However, the Packers had a great second half as they won six of their last eight games, including impressive wins over the Lions and Chiefs. Then in the playoffs, Green Bay spanked Dallas 48-32 in the NFC Wildcard. The Packers win the NFC North in 2024.
