Green Bay Packers 2015 Training Camp Profile: RB Eddie Lacy

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Any player who is the running back of a team that’s quarterbacked by a Super Bowl winner and future Hall of Famer like Aaron Rodgers, is likely to be chronically underrated. This is undoubtedly the case for Eddie Lacy. Make no mistake, though, Lacy is incredibly important to the Green Bay Packers‘ offense, and is arguably one of the NFL‘s top-three players at the position.

Many in NFL circles repeatedly claim Lacy’s 2014 sophomore campaign was less than impressive. In reality, though, it was nearly identical to the rookie showing he had in 2013 which made him so popular. In 2013, Lacy rushed for 1,178 yards and accumulated 11 TDs in total. Lacy added 35 receptions for 257 yards in addition for good measure.

In 2014, Lacy rushed for 1,139 yards (39 less) and nine TDs (two less). However, Lacy’s production in the passing game progressed in droves, as he made 42 receptions for 427 yards with four TDs. Not only was Lacy’s production in his second season similar to his rookie campaign, it was statistically better, yet is somehow deemed as a letdown.

Such is life for a Packers running back.

Heading into training camp, the Packers appear to be primed to perform as an offensive juggernaut in 2015. Green Bay was able to keep the key components of the offense together by re-signing Randall Cobb. Jordy Nelson should do Jordy Nelson-level things, and Davante Adams will build off his solid rookie showing.

The tight end spot is perhaps the only question mark, especially now that Andrew Quarless has gotten himself into trouble with the law. Even so, this offense can dominate without much from the tight end, as evidenced by what they were able to accomplish in 2014.

The majority of carries will belong to Lacy this season, with James Starks being the only other back who gets a fair amount of looks. Don’t be surprised, however, if you see Starks, and possibly even Rajion Neal getting substantial playing time during training camp with the first unit. There are some within the Packers coaching staff who like Neal’s potential, and will be clamoring for the second-year player to get some looks with the first team.

The NFC North is hardly laden with intimidating defenses currently. And there’s surely none with enough talent to stop both aspects of this Packers offense simultaneously. Thus, expect big things again from Lacy in 2015 considering the attention Green Bay’s passing game commands.

Keep an eye on the Packers during training camp, as you’ll be watching the makings of what should be one of the most explosive offensive units the league has seen this decade.

Timothy Downs is a Featured Writer for www.RantSports.com. You can ‘like him’ on Facebook add him on Google or follow him Twitter @Tidow1212.

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