Packers Kick Off 2024 Training Camp with Key Storylines
The Green Bay Packers began their 2024 training camp with their first full practice at Ray Nitschke Field on Monday. Here are some key developments:
For the third time in six seasons, head coach Matt LaFleur has a new defensive coordinator. This year, he brought in Jeff Hafley, who is stepping into his first NFL defensive coordinator role after serving as Boston College’s head coach and working as a defensive assistant in the NFL from 2012 to 2018. Hafley has transitioned the Packers from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defensive scheme, promising a more aggressive and attacking approach. New Packers safety Xavier McKinney is optimistic, stating that the new system will allow the defense to be more instinctive and turnover-focused.
**Key Position Battle: Kicker**
The kicking situation is notably unsettled this year. Last offseason, the Packers entrusted the kicking duties to rookie Anders Carlson, but his performance faltered towards the end of the season. Carlson missed kicks in 10 of his last 12 games, including a crucial miss in a playoff loss to the 49ers. To address this, the Packers brought in three kickers during the offseason: free agent Jack Podlesny, veteran Greg Joseph, and recently claimed rookie James Turner. With Podlesny cut, the competition remains intense as the Packers decide who will secure the kicking role.
Leave a Reply