Green Bay Packers: Why Clay Matthews Is the Most Important Veteran

The Green Bay Packers' Clay Matthews must rebound from last season's career-low sack total to make his fourth Pro Bowl if the Pack expects to make it to the playoffs. His success is even more crucial to Green Bay's chances than Aaron Rodgers'. 

Rodgers is obviously a key factor to the Packers' success, but a quarterback is only as good as his defense. Especially considering the new roles Matthews has been given this season.

Despite his poor campaign in 2011, Matthews is still one of the top defensive players in the NFC North. And an off season for Matthews is still better than most LBs in the league.

Career Low Sacks and Still the Top in the League

Last season, Matthews had a total of only six sacks. This wouldn't seem too bad if he didn't have a total of 13.5 sacks in the previous season.

According to Thad Novak of International Business Times, Matthew is still a force to be reckoned with even on his off days.

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"[Matthews] is one of the most feared pass rushers in the business," said Novak.

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Matthews also had his second career touchdown when he returned an interception. That's not too shabby for an having an off season. The 2012-2013 season will only be his fourth season in the League. He is still very young, but has the talent of a seasoned veteran.

He is only going to get better as the seasons pass, which is good news for Rodgers.

Nick Perry, Jerel Worthy Will Complement Matthews on the Field

First and second-round draft picks, Nick Perry and Jerel Worthy, have been selected to assist Matthews on the field.

Jason Wilde of ESPN Wisconsin explained that the two should help draw attention away from one of the Packers' main playmakers. 

Matthews stated that he was excited for Perry to get up to speed so they could start "making plays together."

With Matthews being one of the top defensive players for the Packers, a target is always on his back. With help from his new teammates, he will be able to get his number of sacks back to where it was two seasons ago.

Matthews Will Embrace New Leadership Roles

Matthews is a guy with a sense of humor who likes to joke around in front of the camera. His teammates don't seem to be bothered by it because his talent is undeniable.

According to Mike Conklin of Packerpedia.com, Charles Woodson said he can appreciate Matthews' antics.

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"If he wasn't any good, he'd take a lot of heat for it... But he's a heck of a player so nobody gives him a hard time about it," said Woodson.

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Teammates of Matthews said that even though his personality is off the wall, he still conducts himself as a businessman.

As Matthews reaches the peak of his career, he is now being looked at as a serious playmaker. He is also expected to be a mentor to rookie, Nick Perry. Even though Matthews is young in the league, he has been given a lot of responsibilities.

Both Rodgers and Woodson are expecting a lot from him as he steps up into a leadership role.

Matthews' Versatility Adds to His Talents

Matthews versatility as an LB will come in handy as he moves to the right outside linebacker position. Perry will start at the left side and give Matthews a chance to spread his wings a little bit. Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com explained how the Packers will use this change to their advantage.

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"The Packers will move Matthews around more than ever this season," said Rosenthal.

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He also added how the switch will take some of the pressure off of Matthews so he will be free to make more plays.

There is not a significant difference between the left and right outside positions, but Matthews said he's all about wherever they want him to play. His versatility as an LB is what makes him one of the best. No matter where he is placed, he will get the job done.