A well offseason meant everything to Green Bay Packers running back Rashan Gary. Unlike last year, when he spent the offseason rehabbing a surgically repaired knee, Gary is well and has a full opportunity to improve as a player heading into the 2024 season.
“Man, this is a blessing,” Gary said. “I have an off-season where I can do what I need to do, work on elements of my game that I didn’t have time for last year. This is very important and crucial to me.”
Gary tore his ACL in November 2022 and missed the rest of the season. He returned for the first week of 2023, but his appearances were confined before then. In fact, the Packers didn’t put him on the field for at least 60 percent of the defensive snaps until delayed October, when Gary returned to the game full-time.
There will be no restrictions in 2024. He was a full participant in the offseason training program and will be fully ready for camp.
“I think it will be great for him. I expect a lot of great things from him,” said Edge Rush player Preston Smith.
Gary said he’s been working on everything – from top to bottom – in his overall game this offseason.
“There’s always something I can get better at,” Gary said. “I’m just working on my overall game, running and passing.”
How will Gary spend the break before training camp? Taking a leadership role and unifying your job group. Gary said his defensive linemates in Texas or California will join him in the weeks before camp, which starts in delayed July.
In 2024, the Packers move to a 4-3 base under recent defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. Gary said the recent scheme is simpler and will require less thinking and more play, especially on offense.
“We love this new defense,” Gary said.
Despite a confined role in 2023, Gary still finished with 9.0 sacks and 22 quarterback hits. Now he will play full-time, with his hand on the ground.
What does the recent defense look like?
“Attack, attack, attack. Aggressive. I love it. All you really need to do is put your ears back, relax and have fun,” Gary said.
