Lets take a look at a breakdown of some of the NFC North’s players to pay attention to as the 2014 season progresses.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions organization have been working hard on getting quarterback Matthew Stafford and his offensive line settled and being more precise in different formations. They are cleaning up minor errors that the coaching staff sees. Cornerback Chris Greenwood has been getting a lot of reps with the defense. It is essential that he stays healthy this season, because frankly the Lions need a cornerback that can step up and make big plays.
General manager Martin Mayhew has committed to the future of Greenwood if he stays healthy and has given an explanation of why he is sticking with him. “Some guys walk in from day one and they got it, and they just step on the field and they got it,” Martin said. “Some guys take a year. Some guys take two years. It doesn’t take more than two years to figure out what players can help or hurt your team.”
The Lions will be watching Greenwood in the preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. The organization is looking for depth behind starters Darius Slay and Rashean Mathis. If Greenwood could impress the coaches he could earn himself a possible position this season.
Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears are looking for a way to strengthen their defense. They resigned some players, but the one that stuck out the most was veteran offensive lineman Dennis Roland. Dennis was signed Thursday and is very excited to be back in a system that he knows. His father was head coach for Olivet Nazarene University before he passed away. Dennis could give the Bears the boost they need in order to keep Bears’ quarterback Jay Cutler from getting sacked or having to rush throws that could result in turnovers. This could help improve big plays from time to time and open up more play action passes down the field.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have been adding players that they feel could help strengthen the team. They released defensive end Rakim Cox and added Chris Crocker on Monday. Crocker had played for the Bengals and in his 151 career games he has notched 554 tackles, 14.5 sacks, 60 passes defensed and 15 interceptions. The Vikings need a leader and that is what Crocker is bringing to the table. With his experience and the rebuilding stage of a young defense, the Vikings could go far if they let Crocker play his game.
Green Bay Packers
Coming off an injury Packers’ quarterback Aaron Rodgers is one of the few starters that has to get more reps in preseason. If he is 100% this season the Packers could be very dangerous and challenge post season appearance. The one aspect that Rodgers needs to improve this season is his timing with his wide receivers. Before Rodgers had gotten hurt last season, the timing was off with his receivers and tight ends. If they can make those adjustments, honestly Rodgers would be virtually be unstoppable. Rodgers looked very sharp in training camp and showed that he still could put a little oomph throwing deep passes.
