Cory's Corner: Trust Gets and Keeps Allison's Job
Geronimo Allison will be the Packers No. 3 wide receiver by default to open the 2018 season.
Geronimo Allison will be the Packers No. 3 wide receiver by default to open the 2018 season.
That probably sounds bad right? Allison has the most important ingredient when it comes to running routes for Aaron Rodgers — trust. As he enters his third season, familiarity is his best friend on an offense that lost one of the game’s best quarterback-to-receiver combinations in Rodgers to Jordy Nelson.
Yet, Allison is still raw and his inconsistencies pop up at the worst possible moments — cue the fumble at Carolina in Week 15 last year.
The Packers aren’t just looking for marked improvement from the 6-foot-3, 202-pound wideout, they are expecting it. Which is why Green Bay drafted three receivers in this year’s draft.
Equanimeaous St. Brown and J’Mon Moore have a chance to unseat Allison for the No. 3 job but it’s going to take some time. And that means that I’ve signed off of Trevor Davis. He has turned into a matchup and gadget receiver that will excel at special teams.
The biggest problem with Allison is that his speed doesn’t fool anyone. He has shown trouble getting past defenders, which allow them to jump his underneath routes.
The Packers have Davante Adams and Randall Cobb and a bunch of guys at wide receiver. Cobb can still be successful in this league, but his numbers have fallen off a cliff the last two years.
Allison must prove that he can get separation at the line of scrimmage. He must be able to counter his lack of speed with a double move or some new power.
Allison has surprised a lot of people that said he won’t amount to much mainly because he didn’t play his high school football as a sophomore or junior. He’s still learning the intricacies of the game, while trying to master Rodgers’ non-verbals all at the same time.
If that sounds nearly impossible, that’s because it is. Allison must trust Rodgers that he will place the ball where it needs to be and Rodgers must trust Allison that he will be able to get to the precise place.
That’s the best way to simplify it: Trust. And that’s Allison’s best chance of maintaining the starting job.
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Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn
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Comments (88)
NickPerry
May 08, 2018 at 06:24 am
I'm hoping and even expecting quite a bit more from Cobb this season. I think Cobb's drop-off the last few years have as much to do with McCarthy's offense as it did with Cobb. Teams were even vocal about knowing what the Packers would run in certain situations and it clearly showed.
As far as Alison goes I still like him more than others. Yes he's slower than you'd like but he's bigger. I'm looking forward to seeing the scrub brushed offense to see exactly what changes have been made. I think those changes will be a bigger difference maker than anything.
RCPackerFan
May 08, 2018 at 06:58 am
What is funny is I wrote mine without reading yours and we both talked about the scrub brush offense.
That to me is almost as exciting as seeing the new defense. Seeing what changes they make on offense.
One of the things I really hope they do is get the RB's more involved in the passing game. When they first moved Montgomery to RB, they had him running actual routes out of the backfield. Not just running screens and going out into the flat for dump offs. I would like to see them do more of that this year.
Also I hope we see them doing more to get WR's open schematically. With as many young players as they have at the position they will need to do more schematically.
Oppy
May 08, 2018 at 02:54 pm
I'd personally like to see the Packers get the RB's more involved in the running game first. Last year was a step in the right direction on that front.
flackcatcher
May 08, 2018 at 04:51 pm
It would be nice if they did it by choice, not because their starting QB got knocked out of the game.
Oppy
May 08, 2018 at 05:26 pm
I think a lot of it has to do with decisions said starting QB makes at the line of scrimmage. I think Rodgers checks out of runs at the LOS more than he should.
It's the only thing that makes sense when you have a head coach who year after year says "We need to do a better job being productive with the run, and frankly, that starts with attempts." or some variation of.
GBPDAN1
May 08, 2018 at 08:56 am
I hope you're right, N. Perry. I hope Cobb is the Cobb of 5 years ago and not the Cobb that couldn't get open much and help carry the offense the year Jordy got hurt. And I hope that the Offense somehow corrects its self and gets better. But with MM still being there and calling the Plays , how much will change? I'm happy Philbin is back and I think back to our offense when he was here, how great it was. But let's all keep in mind what talent we had then. Our Oline was a force and we had Jordy, Jones, Finely, Jennings all in their prime and Driver still relevant.
Now we have a right side of our Oline with question Mark's and we have Alison as our #3 receiver? I'm not happy about that. Is Alison that much better than Jordy was last year? I like Alison as a 4 or 5 wr. I'm praying that one of the rookies steps up, but I feel that will take a while. With out the rookies, are we still the slowest WR set in the league like we were determined to be last year? One deep threat with hands would go a long ways to help. More so than MM changing the offense, he needs more quality personnel.
AR is what's going to make this Offensive efficient again for this year. When he had the weapons and Oline he did in 2011, our Offense was unstoppable. Our Offense this year will be good, but I see flaws.
And I blame ALL of this on TT. Since 2011, he wasn't able to build a D. So he kept spending the majority of our top draft picks on D and not so much on our offense . Now our offense wasn't replenished like it should have been.
I think BG is doing a good job as he has a mini rebuild on his hands , mostly defensive but also some on offense. I think we will make the playoffs, but I think BG will have us in better shape next year after he's had time to pick up more talent and his younger players have more experience. What happens to our offense right now if Adam's got hurt early in the year? Alison is our number one outside reciever?......ouch. Thanks Ted. And thanks Packers brass for waiting to long to make all of these changes.
At least they finally made these changes and we are (I hope) headed in the right direction. I apologize for being somewhat negative in the off season, right after the draft when it's the time to be overly optimistic and thinking of the Super Bowl , as most teams fans are. But, I'm also being realistic. I think we are totally headed in the right direction, especially if one or two of our rookie WRs works out, we solidify the RT side of our Oline, our new CBs develop including Jones and King, our new ILB develops, we add another quality edge rusher next year and we build depth. This will take a little time to all come together, which I truly think will.
Next year is our year, Folks. Unless, most of what I mentioned happens this year and all of our new young talent breaks out by mid season. Then we would definitely have a realistic chance at a SB this year because we have AR at the helm
holmesmd
May 08, 2018 at 08:47 am
NFL COMBINE 40 times:
Allison- 4.67
Adams & Graham- 4.56
Cobb- 4.46
Nelson- 4.51 !?
Monty-4.5
Clark-4.5
R.Rodgers-4.87!
40 times in the underwear olympics are far too valued in my opinion. Watch the tape! Football speed is entirely different than track speed. Anyone who has played ball at the collegiate level or above understands this. They’ll be fine.
GBPDAN1
May 08, 2018 at 05:33 pm
Hello Holmesmd.
So what you're saying is it's good not to have an 'established' deep threat WR that can catch and run good routes. Someone that makes the D nervous and play deep and opens up underneath routes. All the receivers on your list are not this type of player that are currently on our team. ( Nelson was, but lost a step and is no longer on our roster)
As I have mentioned, we currently do not have a deep threat (maybe Adams to a certain degree) out of the gates unless one of our late rd rookies does this on day 1. This is very unlikely. Name a Packers receiver in the last 10 years that was able to do this immediately. And this includes high draft pick receivers, let alone late round ones.
As my post conveyed that we are a Adams injury away of teams completing playing our underneath routes like they did successfully when Nelson went out for a year. Gram will help, but he is no longer a deep threat either, he lost a step.
And my biggest point with my post was I blame TT. BG will fix this and may already have, but it will take time for the rookie WRs to develop.
holmesmd
May 08, 2018 at 08:30 pm
Hello Dan1,
Of course I agree with your point to some degree. I just think that you’re placing too much importance on it. Everyone genuflects at the altar of NE but most of their titles were won WITHOUT a track star. We just drafted 3 huge fast WR’rs. Cobb can still run when healthy( you may recall the play in Chicago to get into the playoffs?) Adams can run. Graham can still run a 4.5(per his post signing interview). Davis can fly. The problem has been addressed as much as it could be in one draft, right? Are you suggesting we cut any WR that can’t run a 4.3? Jerry Rice was a 4.5 guy. Adam Thielen for the Queens is a 4.5 guy. My point is if you feel the need to have a field stretcher, we drafted a few this year! My more emphatic point is that you don’t NEED a speed merchant to be a productive NFL offense. Speed of course is desirable at the position but it is not the “be all, end all”.:)
GBPDAN1
May 09, 2018 at 03:10 am
Thanks for the respectful reply, holmesmd.
And I do understand your point that our deep threat WR does not need to be a 4.3 or 4.4 speed demon with good hands. Jordy was good deep in his prime and he ran a 4.51 at the combine. And you mentioned other great deep threats that weren't sped demons.
My point is, we don't have an 'established' quality deep threat receiver, or more troubling - an established Quality no#2 boundary WR, on the team currently (I'd like to see Adams as our #2). The 3 rookie receivers we drafted are not established. I truly believe that at least one will be develop into a good number 1 or a #2 boundary with time. I even think 2 of them will be good with time. Do you think that one of these WRs we drafted this year, that were not rated in the top 10 WRs, who had some sort of limitations in college which is why they weren't top 10 prospects, will jump right in to the NFL game and be a great no#2 boundary or deep threat WR? When is the last time that happened in GB? These guys are not Julio Jones types, they will take time.
I'm saying they all have potential and will take time to develop and gain ARs trust. As for the current list of players; Davis had his chance and hasn't proven to be a quality #2 . Neither has Alison ( he's a #3 outside at best, but really a #4). Some others have potential, but they are not there.( I hope Adam's doesn't get hurt)
And the reason I'm disappointed , and what I'm really making a point of is TT failed, basically, in his last 5 years, to draft well. We should have 2 more 'established' quality boundary WRs ready to go along with Adam's this year and another starter on the right side of the line on Offense.
But TT did not have the ability as to build a quality D since 2011 ( 2014 wasn't bad). He kept trying to fix his shortcomings year after year by using his high draft picks, and mostly failing, on D players and ignoring the offense.
Anyways, I think BG has us heading in the right direction. One ,or two,of these rookie WR should be contributing by years end. BG had holes to fix , mostly on D, and it wasn't all going to be rectified in one off season. I really wish they would have removed TT 4 years ago.
Are you sure Graham can still run 4.5 ? That would be great!
holmesmd
May 09, 2018 at 06:10 am
Great points Dan1 and I agree with all of them! I’m uncertain why the 3 wideouts were not rated as top round talent but I bet it may have something to do with level of competition in the case of MVS. Moore had 2 consecutive 1000 yd seasons while playing in the SEC! Pretty impressive! ESB was very productive at ND when Kizer was there 2 years ago but when Kizer departed for the NFL, the next QB was not nearly as effective as a passer. ESB also had some drops apparently? Plenty of variables in player draft grades but I think the talent is undeniable!
I would think and sure hope that with all of this competition at WR, 1-2 very effective boundary receivers will emerge. I’ve also read some good things about Yancey. I feel quite a bit better about the WR group than I have for some time. I completely agree about your premise regarding TT but I think the “needle is finally pointing up”;) Regarding Graham, he apparently believes he can still run that 4.5! Let’s hope he can!
GBPDAN1
May 09, 2018 at 02:49 am
Thanks for the respectful reply, holmesmd.
And I do understand your point that our deep threat WR does not need to be a 4.3 or 4.4 speed demon with good hands. Jordy was good deep in his prime and he ran a 4.51 at the combine. And you mentioned other great deep threats that weren't sped demons.
My point is, we don't have an 'established' quality deep threat receiver, or more troubling - an established Quality no#2 boundary WR, on the team currently . The 3 rookie receivers we drafted are not established. I truly believe that at least one will be develop into a good number 1 or a #2 boundary with time. I even think 2 of them will be good with time. Do you think that one of these WRs we drafted this year, that were not rated in the top 10 WRs, who had some sort of limitations in college which is why they weren't top 10 prospects, will jump right in to the NFL game and be a great no#2 boundary or deep threat WR? When is the last time that happened in GB? These guys are not Julio Jones types, they will take time.
I'm saying they all have potential and will take time to develop and gain ARs trust. As for the current list of players; Davis had his chance and hasn't proven to be a quality #2 . Neither has Alison ( he's a #3 outside at best, but really a #4). Some others have potential, but they are not there.
And the reason I'm disappointed , and what I'm really making a point of is TT failed, basically, in his last 5 years, to draft well. We should have 2 more 'established' quality boundary WRs ready to go along with Adam's this year and another starter on the right side of the line on Offense.
But TT did not have the capacity (talent) to build a quality D since 2011 ( 2014 wasn't bad). He kept trying to fix his shortcomings year after year by using his high draft picks, and mostly failing, on D players and ignoring the offense.
Anyways, I think BG has us heading in the right direction. One ,or two,of these rookie WR should be contributing by years end. BG had holes to fix , mostly on D, and it wasn't all going to be rectified in one off season. I really wish they would have removed TT 4 years ago.
Are you sure Jimmy Graham can still run 4.5? Is this documented? That would be great !
dobber
May 08, 2018 at 09:13 am
"What happens to our offense right now if Adam's got hurt early in the year? Alison is our number one outside reciever?......ouch. Thanks Ted."
Allison is a very average possession receiver being thrown to by an outstanding QB. I would ask the question: if Adams got hurt, and Allison was asked to play one outside spot (as the depth chart currently shows), who is playing the other outside spot? Can that player take the heat off the underneath routes (which is about all you'll get from Allison)? You and I agree that we'd like to see that guy playing opposite Adams be a guy defenses have to respect in the middle and longer routes.
Let's not lose track of Jimmy Graham. He's not going to be a guy who will be running deep seam routes all the time, but he's going to make defenses respect him until he shows that they don't have to. As long as he's a distraction, the offense will benefit. If he's lost too much and is just another tall TE who can't block? Things could get rough if Adams or Cobb goes down.
holmesmd
May 08, 2018 at 10:55 am
Good points as always Dobber. I’m going to go out on a limb here and predict a bit. 2 of these 3 drafted WR’rs are going to be difference makers! I think all 3 of them may be but I have my homer glasses on I guess;) More specifically, I think J’Mon Moore will rapidly dispel any possible attrition due to injury. I think we have a stable of wideouts and this offense is going to sizzle!
Cartwright
May 09, 2018 at 03:41 pm
If what you mentioned doesn't pan out this year, and it very well might not they're just rookies, and having Geronimo as your go to wide receiver should something happen to Adams needs a contingency plan. If Dez Bryant is available and he is, looking for a one year prove it deal, I could see Green Bay waiting him out then giving him the call. I can't see trusting rookies to play well consistently for a whole season and not make costly mistakes when you can go get a sure thing. The NFL is different as these newbies will soon find out. Rent Dez out for a year and give the new guys time to learn. This could put us in a great position. He's there for the taking.
RCPackerFan
May 08, 2018 at 06:46 am
I would expect Allison to be the #3 WR to at least start the year. By the end of the year any of the other WR's could become the #3 WR.
Now saying that he will be the #3 WR I don't mean he will be the #3 weapon. I think he will more likely be the 5th weapon. They added Jimmy Graham and they have 3 RB's that can be used in the passing game more.
With McCarthy and Philbin taking the scrub brush to the playbook, I think they will find more ways to use the RB's in the passing game. Especially Montgomery and Jones.
I think the WR battle will be one of the funnest ones to watch. With Allison and Davis as the longest tenured young players, they should be contributing more. They are entering their 3rd year with the Packers. After them they have Clark and Yancey who are entering their 2nd year. Both of those players could be looking to getting some major playing time. And after them we have the 3 rookies. Moore would be almost a virtual lock. We have to believe at least one of the 2 other rookies will make the 53, if not both of them.
Allison will be pushed and will have to earn his spot on the roster.
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 05:56 pm
I agree that the chances are that Allison is the number 3 at the season opening (excluding TE) That said, I sincerely hope that we will not just keep trotting out the same 3 receiver sets.
We need to use our RBs in tandem more and we need to have different receiver groups capitalizing on the fact that we now have a variety of sizes and speed. Through injury and similar size and speed, we lacked variety in our offense. Hopefully there is no excuse for that with our RB/TE/WR groups now in place and with the playbook tear down after Philbin’s return. That approach would also likely make it easier for the rookies to digest, as opposed to having them learn the entire playbook
Would really like a genuinely good blocking TE or FB who can catch as well to round it out.
Finwiz
May 09, 2018 at 06:37 pm
If Allison is a number 3 receiver at the start of the season, we have BIG problems on offense.
Not to worry.
jww061356
May 08, 2018 at 06:52 am
I think if Allison is the only 3rd wide to see the field as the year goes on we are in trouble. I am hoping Clark can make a jump and one of the other guys can at least be a rotational piece.
dobber
May 08, 2018 at 07:59 am
What Clark provided was unique height. How many receiving options do the Packers have now that stand 6'3" or bigger?...and are less of a developmental reach than Clark?...and can run?
I have no issue with Clark being chucked. He could land on the PS, but he's not truly a unique piece anymore.
CJBauckham
May 08, 2018 at 11:21 am
Seconded
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 05:59 pm
Yes to your point on uniqueness no to the sudden urge to discard. If he progresses and wins time, so much the better for us all. His athletic potential is not diminished and we have yet to see if he or the new draftees can convert that. If Clark is not one of the best not, he will be weeded out on merit as he should be at roster cut time.
dobber
May 08, 2018 at 07:31 am
Not a fan of Allison...or any of the returnees at WR for that matter. They're all JAGs or less and likely not meaningfully better than any of this year's draftees. I would like to see the Packers find the best of these three draft picks and force feed him (or them) to #12 to develop timing during camp.
A rookie isn't likely to learn the entire playbook and the majority of the route tree in any one camp, but in all seriousness, Allison can't run any of the deep stems effectively anyway. Davis can, but hasn't shown any consistency. Yancey and Clark are wing-and-a-prayer shots in the dark. What are you really conceding by taking the best of these bigger, faster kids and giving them a shot? Especially behind Adams, Cobb, and Graham?
"Yet, Allison is still raw and his inconsistencies pop up at the worst possible moments — cue the fumble at Carolina in Week 15 last year."
Note that I'll defend Allison to a certain degree here: yes, the Packers needed him to hang onto that ball, but he didn't just drop it. The defender did a nice job of popping it out.
Lare
May 08, 2018 at 10:02 am
I agree, I don't see any of the current guys having the mix of size, speed and ability of the rookies. The best case scenario would be for one or two of them to get on the same page with Rodgers early. Perhaps that was part of the master plan to simplify the offense this year.
We also have to remember that it's been quite a while since Rodgers threw to any receiver with much speed.
croatpackfan
May 08, 2018 at 12:18 pm
I'm with you dobber. All rookies showed similar progress... Allison gets more chances because of his hight, not because he is better than others. My opinion is that he need to do over his ability to stay after cut...
I'm coming back to last year praises from Aaron: Davante Adams, Trevor Davis and Michael Clark... What will be this offseason, we will see...
Somehow I believe Moore is the most complete WR from the rookie class. Also, I would like to see what DeAngelo Yancey did with himself up to TC this year. Maybe, he is sleeper...
All together I will not bet on Geronimo. I wish him the best. If he prove me wrong I will be glad...
dobber
May 08, 2018 at 12:55 pm
I think maybe your comment on Yancey is the most pertinent one: they need players not named Cobb or Adams--guys we might label sleepers--to jump up and win the WR competition, not just be rostered based on potential or draft status. In the end, it likely doesn't matter who does it, so long as someone(s) does.
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 06:05 pm
Yancey is my sleeper from last year. Remember he got injured in camp just when he had started to show something.
On paper, the new WRs have huge potential, but that doesn’t mean they will all make it in the nfl either at all or this season. Maturity, adaptability and other factors have as much influence as athletic ability or health.
Let them show what they have but let’s not write off the others until the pads and pressure of the preseason is well under way. I’m just happy we have some real competition and some diversity of style this year
Handsback
May 08, 2018 at 07:35 am
Philbin will make a huge difference in the Packer's offense. I may be over optimistic, but they could never capture that spark of creativity once Philbin left for the Dolphins. It's not just Philbin, MM also wants a different approach and here's the kicker.....they have new receivers and running backs to plug into a system built for them. They can use the talents of a Graham, Allison, and Clark along with the speed of the rookies and Davis. Monty should be a new workhorse in their offense and make the other teams defense catch-up to Green Bay's offense.
I could see Green Bay's offense start a little slow, build up a head of steam by game 10-12 and flying high by the playoffs. Or they could crash and burn and everyone will say that was the new approach?
Andrew Lloyd Peth
May 08, 2018 at 07:43 am
I would hate this on every conceivable level.
We've all seen what happens when we demand Rodgers buy endless time for slow receivers and then throw pinpoint accurate passes when they still can't get separation--he takes too many hits. Sure disaster. Might as well keep Kiser warm and ready.
We need a guy who strikes some fear and backs CB's off. We need burst, and we obviously know it since we've spent the past 2 drafts finally addressing it throughout the roster.
Then there's Special Teams. If Allison makes the team, he won't start for long, which means we'll need him to produce elsewhere to justify displacing a more athletic player on the roster--but he's worthless on Special Teams.
Trevor Davis has another offseason to work on routes. He has speed and very good hands. He is also our top return guy by a wide margin, unless some imbecile wants to risk our #1 pick by putting him back there.
I'm hoping Michael Clark progresses--remember how raw he was coming out. I'm hoping all 3 draft picks make the opening 53, as it 's unlikely any will clear waivers. I'm hoping Trevor Davis sticks so we don't do something supremely stupid like risking our top pick on returns.
I'm hoping for anything--anyone--but Allison.
Samson
May 08, 2018 at 08:32 pm
You are talking about the endless search for competent WRs in GB. It's sad to think that the most prolific QB in NFL history has to try to made "due" with UDFA and late round picks. --- Somehow, someway, Bryant or Beckham would have been an obvious upgrade. --- Maybe Gute will figure it out after 2018.
Being bold is how anyone wins in the NFL today, especially with an all-world QB.
croatpackfan
May 09, 2018 at 04:47 am
You must be joking! Beckham? That little egomaniac who lost more games for Giants than win. He made 2 or 3 highlights catches and he is star...
Ridiculous...
Bryant? I prefer Jordy over Bryant for double salary any day and night. Another so called star produced by PR experts...
Both of them are empty, not bold!
Bert
May 08, 2018 at 08:45 am
I just don't see Allison, Davis, Clark etc. as being the answer as a #3. They are pretty much JAGs and will only put more pressure on Cobb and Adams. We are so thin at WR. If either Cobb or Adams go down it could be a huge problem.
Savage57
May 08, 2018 at 08:47 am
The best thing which could happen for the Packers as they sort out the WR's would be for AR to get over his 'Circle of Trust' obsession.
The Packers have restocked with fresh WR raw material and these guys are young, raw, going to make mistakes and take some time to get the offense. Rather than shun them, refuse to throw their way, or give 'em the stink eye, be a leader.
In order to improve, the young bucks are going to need opportunities. They won't get them if the guy throwing the ball doesn't change his MO and understand that with risk comes reward.
Having the lowest int. percentage is nice, but having an arsenal of receiving options is nicer.
Savage57
May 08, 2018 at 01:33 pm
You must have missed the play in Atlanta where Davis missed a catch on a comeback and Rodgers went off the rails, and Davis was hardly seen on the field again as a WR.
It wasn't just a Janis thing. AR needs to reset along with his WR group for these guys to reach their potential.
Besides, what other options will he have once Cobb and Adams are injured. Again.
Finwiz
May 08, 2018 at 01:57 pm
Yes.......Davis wasn't much better than Janis or he would have been playing.
Not to mention he isn't the most physical guy in the world either.
croatpackfan
May 09, 2018 at 04:57 am
As I recall Davis did perfect back shoulder catch in the endzone and scored TD against Falcons. Why do you not talking about that?
People here praises Byrd for his showing against Lions (17 week last season), but Trevor was the best WR on the field. Allison was lost, Randall had some troublesome drops and Clark was not given any fair opportunity, because every throw to him was at the level of his knees. The best use of 66 guy!
Stats from that game:
Receiving REC YDS TD LG
T. Davis 3 56 0 29
R. Cobb 4 45 1 17T
E. Byrd 2 31 0 29
J. Williams 3 31 0 27
G. Allison 2 15 0 9
B. Hundley 1 10 0 10
M. Clark 1 5 0 5
J. Janis 1 0 0 0
D. Mays 3 0 0 1
holmesmd
May 08, 2018 at 08:35 pm
Don’t forget an improved defense:)
Andrew Lloyd Peth
May 08, 2018 at 12:05 pm
I agree, Savage.
Rodgers is the greatest, but he needs to broaden his vision this year for developing chemistry with more athletic targets. It's not enough to have a declining veteran run certain routes "just right" but not create good separation or back off coverage with threatening speed.
This isn't about Janis. It's about the past few years of Rodgers force-feeding throws to the same group over and over, even when they weren't open. It's about an increasing number of throws being swatted away by DB's shadowing Aaron's "Old Faithfuls."
We need WR's with characteristics that strike fear, whether it be Clark's 6-6 frame or Davis's speed or the 3 rookies excellent combinations of size/speed/strength. Davante Adams has arrived, but he needs some serious help.
If you don't strike fear, the DB WON'T BACK OFF. It's that simple. Aaron needs to help develop chemistry with these guys, rather than just demanding they mimic his buddies.
Oppy
May 08, 2018 at 03:15 pm
It is nice to hear a few other people with the audacity to ask Aaron Rodgers to make changes, adjust, and improve. It doesn't mean he's not great. It just means he could be better (scary thought). I believe some of Rodgers' tendencies actually limit himself and the offense as a whole. His immense talent and football IQ make him unique in league history I believe, but his over-demanding need for his desired perfection and unwillingness to leave anything to chance or risk leaves a number of on-field tools at his disposal unused.
holmesmd
May 08, 2018 at 08:38 pm
Stated another way, Rodgers could use a bit more Favre to his game. I agree completely, especially at this stage of his career. Push your chips to the center of the table and cut it loose.
Oppy
May 09, 2018 at 12:05 am
It is the ONLY aspect of their games where I'd actually like Rodgers to be a little more like Favre- not sheer recklessness, but give the guys on the field- all of them- the opportunity to go out and make a play in a big moment.
Throw the damn ball. I believe it was James Jones who once said something to the affect of, 'Arod is the best QB in the game, but we're professional football players too. Gotta trust us to make a play once in a while, too."
Michael Hughes
May 09, 2018 at 02:02 am
Rodgers needs to remember, he makes mistakes as well. Veto ing a receiver because of a few mistakes is pretty dumb.
LambeauPlain
May 08, 2018 at 08:55 am
It is entirely possible the Pack could have two new number 3 and 4 receivers on opening day.
Moore, St. Brown, or Valdes-Scantling could all supplant every other current WR receiver on the roster not named Adams.
All three bring size AND speed while the other roster players behind Adams and Graham bring either size or speed....and I am including Cobb here.
We could see the core receivers on game 1 being Adams, Graham, Moore, St. Brown, Valdes-Scantling with Monty being a match nightmare RB.
Davis had his return utility that increased his roster value. Operative word...had. I think Alexander will take his job and he is better at it.
Not only will the DBs be remade, the WR group may be too.
dobber
May 08, 2018 at 09:19 am
I just don't see Cobb going anywhere at this point unless they make some kind of unexpected move to bring in another established WR by trade or as a signing...and they decide they need the cash. I do think that J'mon Moore has a chance to be the slot of the future, though. I see a lot of Jordan Matthews in him.
In edit: I agree with you, though: I wouldn't at all mind seeing a WR corps that reads Adams, Cobb, Moore, ESB, MVS, + potential mystery WR with special teams contributions. And a big part of that stems from help they'll get at TE and (hopefully) from the RB position.
Andrew Lloyd Peth
May 08, 2018 at 12:08 pm
I agree, LP, except on Davis. I would keep him and leave him as our explosive returner. There's no way I'd risk our top pick in that role. We need Alexander mastering coverage only, not taking shots from gunners.
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 06:13 pm
I think we need to aim higher. While he can be good, he is seldom great and displays erratic judgment. I think his only shot at staying is as a returner if no rival emerges who is not a key starter: please do not use Alexander.
worztik
May 08, 2018 at 09:12 am
I predict that Clark will surprise a number of people this year and he’ll be a weapon for ARod, especially in the red zone. That being said, I think we keep 6 WRs. The 3 rookies, Adam’s, Cobb and Clark would make me happy if all of them play up to their potential. One of the rookies may turn out to be a good returner, as well, and then we’re not wasting a roster spot on a WR that does nothing but return kicks. I’m an optimist as regards our new draftees and I think the days of TT drafting players to “develop” are over with, to a point. They all need to produce this year; one way or another! I see potential in all of them... ;~)
worztik
May 08, 2018 at 09:15 am
We do not need to use our #1 draft pick on kick returns!!!
Andrew Lloyd Peth
May 08, 2018 at 12:10 pm
Nope. I want Jaire mastering coverage, not taking shots from gunners.
worztik
May 08, 2018 at 12:23 pm
YUP!!!
Samson
May 08, 2018 at 08:16 pm
Agree.
Alexander was drafted to be a #1 CB not a special teams PR.
Chuck Farley
May 09, 2018 at 05:57 pm
Wrong o mundo. Butt is on record stating their draft board is made up of guys who can play more than one position due to all the injuries this team has playing in bad weather in the cold on grass. Alexander was a one to to run back kicks.
Tundraboy
May 08, 2018 at 09:58 am
That's why it would have been better to find Jordy's replacement when Jordy was still in his prime. Oh well at least they drafted some prospects.
CJBauckham
May 08, 2018 at 11:26 am
I like Allison more than some here, when he's not high or fumbling. I like Davis less then some here, though he has the advantage of his returner status.
I view all 3 rookies as more viable prospects than Clark or Yancey, even with their year in the system.
Of course, I have absolutely nothing to back any of that up except for my gut. Hooray for being a fan! I wish all these guys well this year
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 06:21 pm
Outside of a trade, injury or a truly spectacular camp by one and maybe two other young WRs, there is no way they will drop Allison and go into the season with only two WRs with meaningful nfl experience.
Adams, Cobb, Allison and four of the others. I think we try Monty on returns. I don’t think Davis can justify a space with the receiving potential and Cobb likely being in his last year. The seventh will likely be a gunner on STs as well.
gr7070
May 08, 2018 at 11:30 am
Ability to get open, catch football will dictate who makes roster.
Way, way, way too much is made of the Rodgers trust BS. I don't think even Rodgers buys into 1/10th as much as the writers
Oppy
May 08, 2018 at 03:20 pm
...Except it's not a writer-fabricated story.
It's been brought up by- brought up by, not answered by- WRs, RBs, and TEs as well as Rodgers himself in locker room interviews time and time again over the last 4-5 years.
Samson
May 08, 2018 at 08:12 pm
AR is very good at the PR thing. --- If you were a fly on the wall when AR really expressed his feelings, the truth might be different. --- Think about it.
Oppy
May 09, 2018 at 12:10 am
Yeah... I don't know what this means.
Michael Hughes
May 09, 2018 at 02:05 am
Yep ... they should have drafted nelsons replacement last year and cobbs this year. For some reason everyone demand we spend all our top picks on defense. Again. And gute obliged.
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 06:24 pm
I think they did draft Cobb’s replacement, or at least one they hope will be, this year.
gr7070
May 08, 2018 at 11:33 am
Oh, and Trevor Davis does not excel at gadgets nor special teams. He excels at being fast; that's it.
Tundraboy
May 08, 2018 at 11:34 am
I see a similar scenario as with RB last year, perhaps even more successful. Nothing at all to base that on other than my gut, however the collection of skills that this group could bring is exciting to think about.
Packer_Fan
May 08, 2018 at 12:42 pm
I don't think there is a #3 wide receiver at this time. , Clark, perhaps Montgomery and the three draft choices will all get reps. Even Davis will have reps there. And I hope Philbin will put some life in the offensive scheme. It needs it. A backup quarterback picked apart the Patriot defense. It wasn't because the nuances between QB and WR. It was scheme, followed by execution. Hope to see some of that from Philbin.
4thand10
May 08, 2018 at 09:34 pm
I agree with this A LOT PK. I think #3 still has to emerge. Maybe even a #2 has to emerge if Cobb doesn't play like the old Cobb. Maybe he will produce like the old Cobb if he isn't used in the backfield so much.... man that got stale.
However, I always viewed Foles as a starter. I thought he played well as a rookie years ago...then he was a back up..which I really didn't get. A person who watches football their whole lives can pretty much tell which QBs "get it" and ones that look lost. Foles always looked like one who " got it".
The other baffling thing was at one point I thought Montgomery was really starting to pick it up at WR... then because of the cluster #-/? we had at the RB position at the time he was plugged in there. He played well at RB, but I always felt like it was a stop gap measure until we got a real RB because of how often he gets injured. But I felt like he was really emerging at the WR position . I think he would be a "tough" younger version of Anquan Bolden. I'd almost like to see him as the #3.
As others have stated if just one of the rookie WRs steps up...that would be awesome.
Firstdown
May 08, 2018 at 01:39 pm
I see it a little differently.
Make the team- Adams, Cobb, Davis, Allison, Moore and St Brown. P Squad Valdez, Yancey and maybe Clark.
We need some experience at receiver. We only have two experienced receivers, that's it. As complicated as the offense is, we need Davis and Allison playing WR3 and 4 rather than the rookies.
I think the coaches were impressed with what a receiver Clark's size could potentially do. But he really flamed out in the last couple of games. The pros is no place for a beginner.
I'm thinking that the brass is thinking that Davis is their Jordy replacement guy. Here's why- Allison came back to his level last year. Drops and fumbles are part of his game. Allison averages a drop per 16 targets, Davis averaged one drop per 60 targets his senior year in college. Davis handled the ball 60 or 70 times last year, no drops, no fumbles. In his senior year in college, Davis also led all power five conference receivers in yac, at 9.5 yards per catch. No one was better than Davis at that, not Fuller, not Dobson, not Thomas, not Coleman, not Treadwell, nobody. Allison had one 20 yard catch last year (on a busted play) in 48 targets, Davis doubled Allison's 20 yard output with only 5 targets. I'm thinking Davis will be WR3 this year.
Davis' current value, as only a returner, is 1.5 mil a year, and we have him for the next two years at 600k. He ain't going anywhere.
Speaking of rookies, Moore is the best of them. He'll definitely be on the 53. EQ had serious problems catching the ball last year, his QB's averaged 51% completions to the team as a whole, but EQ caught only 44% of his targets. His sophomore stats were much better, so hopefully last year wasn't really him.
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 06:30 pm
From everything I have read, EQ is clearly the rawest of the draft picks. I expect MVS to make an earlier claim to a roster spot. Since I don’t think any of them survive to the PS, I believe it will take a flame out before any miss the team. I think the rest fight for one spot. That is why I think Davis won’t be the returner. I also think any one of the holdovers would be easier to get through to the PS.
Arthur.Jackson
May 08, 2018 at 02:11 pm
Look I won't say Geronimo Allison will have the 14th most career receiving yards like Anquan Boldin but he is basically slightly taller and skinnier version.
gr7070
May 08, 2018 at 03:54 pm
Is this sarcasm?
Anquan Boldin has one of the most unusual WR builds in modern NFL history. Few have been as densely (ht:wt ratio) built as he.
Allison is *nothing* like him in regards to height: weight!
Boldin is a couple inches shorter and 20 pounds heavier!
dobber
May 08, 2018 at 08:09 pm
Anquan Boldin was a bully and a beast on the field. Another example of a guy who wasn't stopwatch fast, but had little trouble getting separation and still beating CBs deep.
http://draftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=168&draftyear=2003&genpos=
Ferrari Driver
May 08, 2018 at 03:24 pm
If Allison is the Packers starting receiver on the outside throughout the season, the team will have a major problem. Donald Driver was an effective receiver, but during his last couple of years and his loss of speed he was often covered by a linebacker.
The back shoulder throw to Allison will be pie in the ski with his lack of speed. I one of the newly drafted receivers can break through into the starting lineup before the playoffs.
Oppy
May 08, 2018 at 03:32 pm
I would love to see a Packers game that does NOT feature the offense moving the ball via a single back shoulder throw or "free play" toss down the field.
That would show the kind of growth I'm looking for. I think it'd be great for the Packers offense.
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 06:31 pm
A linebacker? Lol, can you back that up?
Spock
May 08, 2018 at 03:30 pm
I've never understood the Clark thing. To me he is the latest 'Janis' for fans. Okay, he's big and somewhat fast. I haven't seen him do anything to 'wow' me. Reports are that Yancey is really doing well. He's my 'sleeper' from last year to excel this year. Disagree with those who say Cobb can't get separation; the film says otherwise and with Jordy gone Cobb (and maybe Adams) will see more in the 'scramble drill' (to give Allison his due he's good at this too). Arod just wasn't throwing to Cobb (who almost never drops a pass) when he was open IMO. Personally, I hope Philbin gets the RB's more involved (maybe has a heart to heart with Aaron about not changing out of so many plays from runs to passes?). I'm excited about all the possibilities and really will be interested in how TC brings out the best players for the 53!! I have a gut feeling that Pettine really WILL improve our defense dramatically and his track record certainly gives the fans hope we haven't had for our defense in a long time. I love the bigger, faster ("we can rebuild him" Six million dollar man) receivers added to the mix. I'm hoping Gute isn't done yet on the FA market as even some modest influx of talent will greatly improve this team. As always this time of year I am stoked for our team's possibilities. Should be a BLAST to watch. Go, Pack, Go!
Lare
May 08, 2018 at 04:31 pm
I also hope Gutekunst isn't done yet on the free agent market. If the offensive line depth isn't addressed it won't make much difference who the Packer's WRs are.
Packer_Fan
May 08, 2018 at 04:37 pm
Clark had problems catching contested throws when tightly covered. I remember a fade in the end zone last year, he was not able to even get his hands up to make an attempt. The ball whizzed by about a foot from his body. He needs more time and work. I think BG may look at a FA WR is the young or draft picks don't step up. It would be hard for him to sign a FA when you drafted three wide receivers.
flackcatcher
May 08, 2018 at 05:18 pm
JANIS!(sob.............)
Samson
May 08, 2018 at 08:05 pm
The problem is simple.
"The Packers have Davante Adams and Randall Cobb and a bunch of guys at wide receiver."
If one of the three 2018 draftee WRs doesn't step up immediately (season 2018), then GBs "O" will suffer. --- AR will not like his WRs running the wrong routes or not running themselves open.
Reality Check: GB's "D" may improve significantly in 2018. --- The "O" may be the albatross in 2018. --- Lack of a proven OL and WR corp surrounding AR doesn't fill me with a great amount of hope.
dobber
May 08, 2018 at 08:12 pm
I worry more about the OL than the WR corps at this stage, and it has little to do with the draft.
holmesmd
May 08, 2018 at 08:51 pm
Dobber,
If they sign Evans and get Madison going, they’ll be at least as good as last year, don’t you think?
dobber
May 08, 2018 at 09:36 pm
<<knocks on wood>>
Michael Hughes
May 09, 2018 at 01:59 am
The more rodgers has thrown to receivers he trusts as opposed to whoever is open, the worse his numbers have got. He needs to get over himself and spread it round like he used to do.
NickPerry
May 09, 2018 at 05:53 am
Some really excellent comments and back and forth on this piece. I especially like the back and forth (And I agree) about Rodgers becoming at least a little more like Favre. Jennings and Jones both had somewhat productive rookie seasons because Favre THREW them the ball.
These kids will make mistakes BUT they'll grow from them too. Favre said in 2007 this was the most talented team he'd been on as a Packer...Or something like that. Most Packers WR's don't have ultra productive rookie seasons because they don't get the ball. Well Mr. Rodgers, it's time to give em a shot. Who knows you may have a Colston, Michael Thomas, Tarek Hill, Keenen Allen...All these guys had damn fine rookie seasons and many were drafted in the 3rd round or later, Thomas was a 2nd rounder. My point is it CAN happen. Especially when AR is the QB.
Just a thought...
Jeremy Maclin...He's not a burner but he can still get downfield. He may be able to had cheap and would be some insurance if Cobb or Adams were injured for a few games.
holmesmd
May 09, 2018 at 06:24 am
Right on NP!
Coldworld
May 09, 2018 at 06:37 pm
I have to disagree because what we need now is to build young recievers. That takes playing time and lots of it. Maclin might help in the short term, but not enough to make mediocre great. I’m not willing to lose potential just for a minor short term upgrade when we finally have some potential.
Right now, we live or die by getting younger players better on offense. That’s where Ted left us.
Thegreatreynoldo
May 10, 2018 at 05:34 am
I thought Favre said it in 2005, but it was 2006. The team went 8-8, but a year of experience and it went 13-3 in 2007.
The link below has the quote, but a lot of it is quotes by Favre about his arm being fine but his ankles, knees and hips were giving out, even to the point that he couldn't walk normally. I am pretty sure he said similar things in 2005, which is why I was fine with drafting AR.
http://www.espn.in/nfl/news/story?id=2536010
hybridauth_Facebook_100004084225446
May 09, 2018 at 09:51 pm
For a guy that smokes weed he's still a great WR .....
stockholder
May 10, 2018 at 08:24 am
It's Time to weed him out! No separation. You can't keep kids on the bench. They must learn. Baptism by Fire. Cobb likely will be gone next year too.