3 Packers Not Named Aaron Rodgers or Davante Adams Who Were Key in Helping Team Clinch Division

Throughout the 2019 season, the Green Bay Packers failed to garner much respect because of their tendency to "win ugly."

That still might be the case, and it's fair to say that the Pack are thriving as an afterthought because they captured the NFC North crown after dominating the Minnesota Vikings on MNF.

Though Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams will accumulate the majority of the headlines, there were several other contributors that helped Green Bay clinch reach great heights this season. Let's highlight a few of those players, shall we?

3. Jaire Alexander

Packers lockdown cornerback Jaire Alexander. / Dylan Buell/Getty Images

Last season, Alexander was named to the NFL’s all-rookie team, and he's followed that up with a sensational sophomore campaign. Outside of Za'Darius Smith, he might just be the Packers' most important player on defense. In terms of lockdown corners, Alexander is often overlooked, but his name deserves to be up there with the very best the game has to offer. The Louisville product's ability to shut down opposing teams' No. 1 wideouts serves as a perfect complement to Green Bay's elite pass rush. Hit stats -- two interceptions, 16 passes defended, 53 tackles, and one forced fumble -- won't jump off the page, but that's because QBs know better than to throw his direction.

2. Aaron Jones

Aaron Jones breaking away from the Vikings' defense. / Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

In a season where Green Bay's passing game was largely Jekyll and Hyde, Aaron Jones was utterly spectacular, and his importance to Matt LaFleur's offense was on full display week in and week out in 2019. For the year, Jones compiled 984 yards on 211 carries -- good for 4.7 yards per tote -- for a league-leading 16 touchdowns. The Texas product was also a key receiver for Aaron Rodgers, logging 47 receptions for 431 yards and an additional four scores. He's the Packers' offensive MVP of 2019, make no mistake about it.

1. Za'Darius Smith

Za'Darius Smith wrapping up Mike Boone on Monday Night Football. / Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

What more is there to say about the Pack's prized offseason acquisition? Smith is a game-wrecker who must give NFL offensive coordinators nightmares leading into games against Green Bay. For the season, the Kentucky product has produced 54 combined tackles (17 for losses), 13.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and a whopping 35 QB hits. His domination all season deserves Defensive Player of the Year recognition.