Q: I was wondering about the Packers’ prospective year. They seem to be the most stable team in the NFC North, but did not have the best year last year. Will Matthew Stafford contribute to the Lions, will Favre be able to play despite surgery, and will the all-star Chicago team be able to play together?

—

Tim Wertin, Athens, Ga.

A: Look, I like the Packers and thought they underachieved big time last year. They should be explosive offensively, and I would expect significant improvement from Aaron Rodgers.

But I don’t see how you can say they seem to be the most stable team in a division that includes the Vikings and Bears. The Packers had four fewer wins than the Vikings last year and three fewer wins than the Bears. They also have an entirely new defensive scheme that may or may not pay immediate dividends.

Every team in the division has questions, no doubt. But Green Bay has to prove it can play with Minnesota and Chicago.

Q: Does Brandon Marshall really think he’s doing any good by running his mouth so much? Why doesn’t he just wait to see what kind of coach Josh McDaniels is before he freaks out?
— Mike Seitz, Denver

A: If you have followed Marshall’s career, Mike, you know he just can’t help himself. It seems like Marshall isn’t always as concerned with the consequences of his actions as he is about just letting loose.

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It’s just part of the package with Marshall. You know he is one of the game's most gifted receivers. But you also know he often teeters on the edge of self destruction.

Q: How good can the Chargers be with Ron Rivera?
— M. Murphy, Encinitas, Calif.

A: I think Rivera will have a positive impact on the Chargers' defense. I’m a big believer in his philosophy and teaching style, and I could see him becoming a prime head coaching candidate as a result of what he does in San Diego.

However, I think Shawne Merriman will be an even more valuable “addition” to the Chargers defense.

Q: How much do rookies get paid?
— Jane W., Billings, Mont.

A: Anywhere between $3.1 million, which reportedly is the base salary Matthew Stafford will get as the first pick in the draft (he’ll get many millions more in bonuses), and $310,000, which is the NFL rookie minimum for this season.