The NFL's 5 Most Improved Offenses Entering 2016

Green Bay Packers

So many things went poorly for Green Bay’s offense last year -- a shoddy offensive line, struggling receiver corps, and a subpar running game -- but Aaron Rodgers kept them afloat. The Packers finished 2015 ranked 12th in Adjusted NEP per play and nearly knocked off the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Divisional Round.

Rodgers is so, so good.

It's not like Green Bay's offense was bad in 2015, but it should be better this year.

Probably the biggest reason for the improvement will be the return of Jordy Nelson, who missed all of last season with an ACL tear. He was one of the top wideouts in the league in 2014, ranking fifth in Reception NEP per target among receivers with at least 70 targets.

Last year, despite being on the opposite end of passes from Rodgers, Randall Cobb and Davante Adams had miserable seasons without Nelson making big plays on the outside. Among the 48 receivers to see at least 80 looks, Cobb and Adams ranked 43rd and 47th, respectively, in Reception NEP per target.

The Packers’ running game also struggled last year. Among the 44 running backs with at least 100 attempts, Eddie Lacy and James Starks checked in 29th and 37th, respectively, in Rushing NEP per play.

Green Bay allowed the fifth-most sacks (47) last season. They addressed the line in the NFL Draft, selecting tackle Jason Spriggs with the 48th overall pick.

Rodgers shouldn't have to run for his life (as often) and fire 50-yard rockets, but he can do it if necessary.

Since 2010, Rodgers owns three of the top eight quarterback seasons -- 2011, 2013 and 2014 -- in terms of Passing NEP per drop back. No other signal caller has more than one top-10 campaign.

With a full arsenal of weapons, the addition of Jared Cook and maybe more Jeff Janis, a popular breakout candidate, Green Bay should be one of the league’s best offenses in 2016.