Packers passing game will still be successful in 2022
Despite the loss of Davante Adams, the Packers will still be efficient in the pass game in 2022.
By GunnarDavis
Does the loss of star wide receiver Davante Adams sting? Especially when the Green Bay Packers reportedly offered more money than the Las Vegas Raiders?
Of course it does.
Any time you lose a player the caliber of Adams, it's going to be an extremely tough challenge to overcome.
But I'm here to tell you what you probably have already heard. The Packers offense and its passing game will be just fine in 2022. Here's why:
It's not a little-known fact that the squad went 7-0 in games that Adams missed due to injury over the past couple seasons, averaging nearly 32 points per game in those contests. Without Adams, Matt LaFleur and Nathaniel Hackett were forced to go to the drawing board to get more innovative, relying more on a strong run game and creativity in the pass game.
Adams has arguably been the best pass-catcher in the league over the last few seasons. We, the fans, knew that, defenses knew that and, more importantly, Aaron Rodgers knew that - which, more than once, got him in trouble trying to force-feed Adams the ball.
In the biggest games, when Rodgers looked the most uncomfortable, it seemed it was often due to a lack of protection, as well as Rodgers locking in on one receiver (Adams) and holding on to the football for far too long.
Without Adams, Rodgers will almost be forced to go through his reads and find the best place for the football.
If the wide receiver room doesn't change from now until August, which I'm almost certain it will, the Packers may not have a true No. 1 wide receiver. Obviously, that can be a good or a bad thing.
In this case, I think the Packers wide receiver room is actually better than what it is getting credit for. It's not a finished product by any means, but it's a good start. Especially since the organization has the means to maybe snag a couple more guys before the end of the offseason.
Randall Cobb, one player who Rodgers has complete faith in, made quite the impact in games where he was healthy last season. One that I think surprised both LaFleur and the fans. The guy can still play.
Allen Lazard is a solid player, capable of getting physical in the run game, and making plays in big moments. A favorite target for Rodgers on third down, Lazard may be due for a big season in 2022.
Malik Taylor, Amari Rodgers and Juwann Winfree are all unproven players, but I'm betting at least one will play a large role in the success of the offense next season.
Recently signed tight end Robert Tonyan, as well as proven pass-catching running backs Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon, will get more targets next season as well.
Add in a free agent or two, as well as a draft pick spent on a top receiver, and this passing game will be much better than anyone is giving it credit for.
Sure, maybe the team won't have a true top receiver. But the Packers have won before without a true No. 1.
And they can do it again come fall.
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Gunnar Davis is a lifelong Packers fan and a recent graduate of Simpson College, where he was a 3-year letterwinner on the offensive line and graduated with a degree in multimedia communications. You can follow him on Twitter at @Gunnar57Davis.
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Comments (118)
Bure9620
March 23, 2022 at 12:07 pm
Yes it could be but more so due to protection. Hopefully, Jenkins is healthy and Bahk is back. The pass game will be successful if the protection is great. Veteran HOF QBs don't need weapons galore, they need a run game and great protection. MLF can scheme WRs open, get a low priced FA and some rookie speed in the draft. They have enough. The run game fixes everything.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 12:10 pm
Just like it was great post Jordy? No, not without some really good picks.
WestCoastPackerBacker
March 23, 2022 at 01:35 pm
You forget that this is the Matt LaFleur offense, not the Mike McCarthy offense. The Mike McCarthy offense struggled mightily, but the LaFleur offense continued to be successful even when there was a loss of a major talent like Adams.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:37 pm
We aren’t just without Adams. We lack 2 of the 4 next most targeted WRs. We have one starter, Lazard held over, and one older, play count type and AmRod, both of whom play in the slot only.
dobber
March 24, 2022 at 07:37 am
The offense becomes far more scheme dependent without Adams (or some other threat) drawing safety help or a second CB on a regular basis. It puts a tremendous amount of pressure on--what is right now--a bunch of journeyman guys to find a way to uncover long enough and be in the right place to get the ball from 12. It puts a lot of pressure on 12 to throw guys open. It allows defenses to squat on the run game--which people seem to see as the cure-all for an offense that lacks playmakers in the passing game. There's more coming to the WR room, yet, but it's got to be impactful or this offense will look very different in 2022.
greengold
March 24, 2022 at 08:18 am
Hahahahaha. Yeah, dobs!
This is our current WR room:
Chris Blair
Randall Cobb
Rico Gafford
Amari Rodgers
Juwaan Winfree
Malik Taylor is exclusive rights. Lazard is restricted… but… Wow. If this isn’t writing on the wall that the Aaron Rodgers era in GB is over… and, who in the actual F is Rico Gafford?
I think Rodgers gets traded in a blockbuster draft day deal, and a new era begins.
Figure, there’s just no way Rodgers looks at this as an appealing group. Nor does he have first instinct willingness to bring rookie WRs up to speed, based on what we know of him.
There’s so little that makes sense regarding a notion that he wants to stay here to finish his career. There’s much more making sense about trading him for a great beginning to the immediate future for the Packers.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 24, 2022 at 08:16 am
Trading Rodgers now would amount to $128 mil in dead cap money that would all have to be paid this year which is 100% impossible. It would be doomsday for this team. They're stuck with him now. Theres no going to be any trade.
greengold
March 24, 2022 at 11:20 am
No offset by players included on the other side? After June 1st the dead cap hit drops to $29.7… Unsure tho how a Leonard Williams and likely Daniel’s Jones throw in might adjust those numbers, if they do at all?
I’m this first to admit the workings of the cap are not my strength. Same for trade mechanisms. It simply appears to be much that doesn’t fit.
I can’t believe we’re stuck with this, if what you say is true. If that’s in fact the case, all we can hope for then is that Rodgers breaks form, and embraces bringing Amari Rodgers and newly drafted rookie WRs up to speed in LaFleur’s system.
Allen Lazard wants to get paid, as he should. With what?
I’d like to know how this plan of keeping AR is supposed to work…??? I’m just not seeing it.
Leatherhead
March 24, 2022 at 08:37 am
Greengold, the WR room is a long way from being finished. On opening day, I predict we'll have Lazard, Amari, Cobb, and two guys who aren't on the roster right now. We'll have adequate weaponry to move the ball and score points.
You know, it has occured to me that we use the draft choices we got for Adams to replace him. #22 and #52 could get us two pretty good prospects. Thats's one position. Lazard is another. Cobb and Amari are the third WR when we go that way.
dobber
March 24, 2022 at 08:42 am
I think this is MOSTLY right. I've read a couple interpretations that say that the structure of many of the guarantees make them transferable with the contract (listed as option bonuses here). There's a certain amount of signing bonus that accelerates onto the contract if he's traded or if he retires.
https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/green-bay-packers/aaron-rodgers-3745/
I'm dubious of this interpretation, simply because it doesn't jive with how we usually view guarantees, but if correct it represents a very "pay as you go" deal that could still allow him to be traded or for him to retire (as long as he does so before annual roster/option bonuses kick in).
TGR is the master, here. How do you interpret this?
jannesbjornson
March 23, 2022 at 03:16 pm
Now they have to hIt on three at the minimum. Two wides and a TE. MVS may be signing with the Chiefs.
dobber
March 23, 2022 at 12:17 pm
By acquiring Tyreek Hill, it looks like Devante Parker of the Dolphins just became available. He joins a contingent of fragile, aging WR that could be had in trade or via FA.
EnemyTerritory
March 23, 2022 at 12:23 pm
Hill to the Miami Dolphins for five draft picks: a 2022 1st-round pick (No. 29), a 2nd-round pick (No. 50) and a 4th-round pick, as well as 4th- and 6th-round picks in the 2023 draft, sources tell ESPN. So…did the Fins overpay or did the Packers get ripped off? I’m thinking the latter
Bure9620
March 23, 2022 at 12:25 pm
The day 3 picks are more, but a not a huge trade value for 4th and 6ths. They got more, but Hill was not Franchise tagged.
murf7777
March 24, 2022 at 07:04 am
Bure…..I’d add that he is 14 months younger. Might not seem like much but when you are signing long term deals with WR’s around 30 I think it is.
Bure9620
March 24, 2022 at 09:01 am
It absolutely is, I agree. 3rd contracts for receivers approaching 30 or on the wrong side of 30 are a risk as it is. This is a calculated risk LV taking imo, one they are obviously comfortable with.
13TimeChamps
March 23, 2022 at 12:39 pm
Got ripped off? Adams could have walked and GB would have ended up with a 2023 3rd round compensatory pick. Instead, Gutekunst tagged him and got a 1st and 2nd. No comparison to Hill, who was still under contract and several years younger.
To be honest....I think both contracts are stupid. Paying WRs 28-30 million a year is asinine.
dobber
March 23, 2022 at 01:32 pm
This is about right. The cap relief the Packers got was worth 2-3 starting players, too. The Packers had very little leverage with a player who wanted out of town and essentially got Vegas to buy the tag. I'm more than content with this.
I agree that Hill's age is a key piece here. He's a unique talent, too, and an elite athlete. A true gamebreaker.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:15 pm
Better age, better leverage. It’s a massive deal, but all in all comparable in the circumstances. It just likely cost us MVS.
greengold
March 24, 2022 at 12:42 pm
MVS 2021
16.5 Y/R, 3 TD, 18 1D, 47.3% Catch%, 430 YDS
I think we’ll survive.
LeotisHarris
March 23, 2022 at 03:59 pm
Hill's a unique talent, an elite athlete, and true gamebreaker, but also a garbage human being that's one domestic violence incident or child abuse charge away from where he belongs. The temptations in Miami will likely prove to be too much for him.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 23, 2022 at 04:07 pm
Hes also a woman and child beater.
murf7777
March 24, 2022 at 07:06 am
Plus our first round draft pick is higher, thus equal to around one of the 4ths. I agree no comparison.
jannesbjornson
March 23, 2022 at 03:15 pm
In addition, the Hill issues/negotiation were not relevant last week. It was Hill's opportunity to leverage the Chiefs after Adams set the table for the aristocracy.
WestCoastPackerBacker
March 23, 2022 at 01:37 pm
It was clear that Adams only wanted to go to one destination, and not become a true free agent. So GB made that happen, along with Vegas. They could have let him hit the market and only gotten a 3rd round comp pick next year, when Rodgers is another year older. GB got great value for a guy not under contract for 2022.
dobber
March 23, 2022 at 01:59 pm
It's a remarkable haul for a guy with two run-ins for domestic violence in his history.
13TimeChamps
March 23, 2022 at 03:14 pm
NFL teams have shown over and over they don't care. Look at the guy GB just added to the roster:
"According to the police report, Reed allegedly grabbed the woman by the throat, dragged her across the bedroom floor and stairs by her feet and ankles, chased her and broke open a bathroom door before being held back by people identified as other Seahawks employees."
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:16 pm
Many teams don’t. Of course it could backfire, but top talent trumps most qualms for most teams.
13TimeChamps
March 23, 2022 at 03:48 pm
It's heartwarming that certain fans on here don't condone his violence, but at the same time welcome him to the team with open arms. Did I mention he is 6'3" and 300+ lbs? Seems like a great guy.
Homer fandom trumps common sense and decency.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 04:11 pm
Reed wasn’t charged I suppose. There is an issue with that in that it was not proven. There has to be some cut off in the continuum of fair play. I confess I don’t know if it was an isolated event. The guy that always sticks in my craw is a certain. Former Vikings RB, but redemption is the norm now if you are wealthy or famous. Unless you are Sharper, and rightly.
13TimeChamps
March 23, 2022 at 04:27 pm
This isn't a he said/she said. It was reported that "several" Seahawk employees had to restrain him while he tried to break into the bathroom to get at her again. Leaves little doubt about proof. Why no charges? Who knows? He's an NFL player? She was too afraid to press charges?
My wife counsels battered women. She has said over and over this level of violence is rarely a one time thing. I'm surprised the Packers signed him, to be honest. They usually stay clear of these situations.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 23, 2022 at 05:56 pm
Well this isnt the Green Bay Packers anymore. Its the Green Bay Rodgerses. Things are done differently now with little concern for character.
Guam
March 24, 2022 at 09:13 am
I think that is an unnecessarily harsh judgement of the Packers given the lack of clarity around this story. There are a number of versions of this story floating around the internet (see TGR's version further down this thread) and none can lay claim to being the definitive story, at least that I can figure out. Factually, no charges were ever pressed and this is the only incident that has ever been attributed to Reed. There is no recurring pattern of violence which often seems to be the case with domestic violence. The incident happened five years ago and the Kansas City Chiefs vetted and signed Reed to a contract after this incident and now the Packers have done so as well.
We shouldn't permanently indict someone based on a story floating around the internet. Not saying it didn't happen or that due diligence shouldn't be done, but I would be careful about judging Reed too disparagingly based on internet information. Given the Packer's history of avoiding character problems, I would hope and believe that Gute and the front office did their due diligence and trust that they have not acquired a problem.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 06:48 pm
I understand that. I’m not saying it didn’t happen. I’m just saying that charges weren’t brought civil or criminal. At some point there has to be some level of trigger. I don’t know a better one. What any of us guess at beyond the known isn’t enough.
Thegreatreynoldo
March 24, 2022 at 05:50 am
Reed invited the woman to his home. There was a party there. The woman got drunk; Reed asked her to leave. She refused. Reed then decided to remove her from the premises by force. She resisted. It sounds like Reed lost his temper. Seahawks employees were also at the party.
Not sure of the technicalities, but I gather that the DA thought he wouldn't get a conviction since a homeowner was removing a trepasser by force.
PatrickGB
March 23, 2022 at 02:24 pm
It depends on how it all works out. Right now GB needs another good WR. The Fins and Chiefs do not. In fact I expect the Chiefs to sign MVS. Then, what do we have? Draft picks and what else? Cobb, Lazard AmRodgers, Taylor and Whinfree?
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:21 pm
Blair, Gafford and maybe a cheap SFA and UDFAs.
murf7777
March 24, 2022 at 07:12 am
I go with ol’ Ask Vic……”dime a dozen” theory, we will be alright, obviously we won’t go into the year with that lineup. As long as we have a great OL we will be fine.
shmelbs
March 23, 2022 at 03:14 pm
Adams' deal surely reset the market for a receiver like Hill. If Adams hadn't been traded, it's a good bet Hill's deal wouldn't have been so rich, so it's not entirely fair to compare the two deals.
I think the Packers got a good deal. The Raiders is where talented WRs go to see their careers die--ask Javon Walker and Jordy Nelson, among many others. Adams will fare a lot better than those guys, but it'll be interesting to see if he truly lives up to the hype and the mountain of money they're giving him. Maybe he will. We don't know right now.
On the other hand, with a little extra cash in their coffers, the Packers have been able to resign several valuable players on D, and they have great draft capital to play with. The Packers already got better, and that's something we DO know right now. And it's a good bet they'll get even better through the draft.
Plus, it'll be nice to see Rodgers look at all his receivers and spread the ball around. I have this recurring dream where Lazard is wide open in the end zone and Rodgers inexplicably launches the ball across the country to Adams in Las Vegas, where Adams is double-covered. The irony is that Adams catches the ball and scores.
13TimeChamps
March 23, 2022 at 03:32 pm
"I have this recurring dream where Lazard is wide open in the end zone and Rodgers inexplicably launches the ball across the country to Adams in Las Vegas, where Adams is double-covered. The irony is that Adams catches the ball and scores."
That's hilarious!
Bure9620
March 23, 2022 at 10:44 pm
Funny
LambeauPlain
March 23, 2022 at 08:33 pm
For KC to get to the Packers #22 in the Adams trade, they would have to offer their #29 for Hill and their 3rd rounder, #94.
Packers got ripped off? 7 spots in the first round is huge.
Thegreatreynoldo
March 24, 2022 at 06:04 am
Under the Jimmy Johnson system, pick #22 is worth enough more than pick #29 that 22 and 53 is almost exactly equal to 29, 50, plus the mid point for the 4th and 6th in 2023. It is slightly more points for Adams than Hill, IIRC. If one discounts the 4th and 6th by a round for being future picks, then Adams clearly is the richer haul.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 24, 2022 at 08:21 am
The 1st rounder the packers got is 7 spots higher which is a pretty substantial gap. The 2nd rounder the Packers got is 3 spots lower but in the 2nd its a substantially smaller gap value-wise. Add it all up and theyre both pretty similar in value.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 12:32 pm
Cobb and others? Start an infirmary?
dobber
March 23, 2022 at 01:32 pm
Get a bigger hot tub in the rehab room.
jannesbjornson
March 23, 2022 at 03:22 pm
Ice Baths now in vogue.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:24 pm
Maybe cryogenics
LeotisHarris
March 23, 2022 at 04:02 pm
Yep, too hot in the hot tub!
PeteK
March 23, 2022 at 04:32 pm
Holy shrinkage!
LambeauPlain
March 24, 2022 at 11:02 am
Parker is a former #1 pick but is no longer a #1 WR, obviously. However replacing Tua with Rodgers could see a renaissance for the 29 year old.
My larger concern are the injuries, especially his numerous hamstring issues. He has had 15 reported injuries with half of those being the hamstrings. Until he missed all of last year (yep, hamstring!), the most games missed were 5 in a season...but he was always on the injury reports, missed practice time and while he probably played through several injuries...is his hamstring a chronic problem now? Those can be so problematic.
My concern is the Pack needs WRs who can contribute now...is Parker to be depended on?
dobber
March 24, 2022 at 12:52 pm
I don't disagree. I think he's emblematic for what's readily available at this point: aging and/or injury prone. If you go that route, you're crossing your fingers that they'll be available enough to win you more games than they cost you. The Packers are shopping on a budget, so they're likely looking for a reclamation project.
jont
March 23, 2022 at 12:23 pm
No mention of MVS. Have the Packers said they're no longer interested in him and I missed it?
Be that as it may, reports have MVS in KC today-- just as Tyreek Hill left for Miami. Maybe the Chiefs will sign him?
I'm sure Gute is looking everywhere for pass catchers.
BruceC1960
March 23, 2022 at 12:31 pm
I would guess KC sniffing around Jarvis Landry too.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 24, 2022 at 08:22 am
DK to Chiefs is the latest rumor.
dobber
March 23, 2022 at 01:50 pm
I come back to Devante Parker as an example. Assuming he can still run (he was a 4.44 earlier in his career, but has had his share of soft tissue injuries), a guy like him or Will Fuller will come at a reasonable price (Parker is owed ~$6M in 2022 and 2023 as a trade) and help provide some wheels and experience to go along with a young draftee and the rest of the Packers vagabond WR room.
There's a vet coming from somewhere, yet, we just don't know who/where.
PatrickGB
March 23, 2022 at 02:28 pm
PS? Maybe someone’s cut during TC? WWJ? At this point maybe we can trade for someone?
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:22 pm
Probably could get touch down Jesus back
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:26 pm
Janis is only 30. He’d help STs and could get deep
jannesbjornson
March 23, 2022 at 03:32 pm
Draft three guys and let the Guru run the air show, just like Elway and the Three Amigos. The dinosaur notion about big, lumber-legged wides as necessary for the offense is another myth that needs a funeral. They also have an opportunity to bring in two-three TEs to compete for a spot. Right now they have Deguara and some warm bodies. When he wants power ball, run the DBL TE sets and Procure a Fullback to efficiently run this version or any version of WCO. Juszczak makes it happen for the 49rs. Packers win the big game with guys like Wiilliam Henderson and Kuhn. It is not a coincidence. LaFleur has to get back to basics and evolve.
Thegreatreynoldo
March 24, 2022 at 06:06 am
Julio Jones is 33 and has missed a lot of games lately, but his per snap figures are still #1 WR level. His cost? Will we need a bigger hot tub?
https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/packers-free-agency-2022/2022/3/23/22...
Coldworld
March 24, 2022 at 09:27 am
No good if not on the field, however talented
Bure9620
March 23, 2022 at 10:46 pm
I think they want MVS back at their price. At this point his agent is trying to drive up the price. I would be a bit surprised to see MVS back in Green Bay at this point.....
Coldworld
March 24, 2022 at 11:26 am
I’m hearing that Kansas will replace with more than one WR, recognizing that Hill is a unique talent and that they won’t get the same capabilities in one player. It all depends who their primary signing is (if they can secure one) as to whether the will offer to pay MVS.
Oppy
March 23, 2022 at 12:29 pm
Will the passing game be good to go in 2022, or will it leave something to be desired? Nobody knows for sure, but one thing that's certain is if the air attack is less than desirable this coming season, Aaron Rodgers will not have to worry about shouldering any potential responsibility for it- he's above criticism. It'll be the WRs not getting open, could be the OL not giving Rodgers 5 seconds on every drop back. Could be the running backs not posing a credible threat to the defense, heck, might even be the play caller isn't putting Rodgers in a favorable situation, but rest assured, it won't be Rodgers' fault.
BruceC1960
March 23, 2022 at 12:33 pm
Heaven forbid any drops.
Oppy
March 23, 2022 at 01:12 pm
Drops are one area where it's clearly the receivers' fault, as evidenced by the horribly intimidating scowling Rodgers will cast at the target in question, and the refusal to throw a ball in their direction for at least 3 weeks if they haven't already been established as trustworthy previously.
BruceC1960
March 23, 2022 at 02:28 pm
I’ve always wondered about that. It’s ok to stare down a receiver after a drop, but nothing said on a missed throw?
PatrickGB
March 23, 2022 at 02:33 pm
In all fairness, if a receiver drops a catchable ball, then it is his fault. If the WR is not where he is supposed to be then it’s his fault too. Yet if the receivers don’t read Rodgers mind then it’s Rodgers fault.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 23, 2022 at 04:36 pm
But did he ever respond the same way if Davante dropped a ball? Nope.
Oppy
March 23, 2022 at 06:23 pm
" ...if they haven't already been established as trustworthy previously."
Oppy
March 23, 2022 at 06:39 pm
.
dobber
March 23, 2022 at 01:54 pm
It's a passing league. There are plenty of teams on the Packers' schedule that are going to score in the mid-to-upper 20s (or low 30s) on a good defense. If the Packers want to try to win games 24-17 on a weekly basis more power to them, but this is a league where you need to put up points--and I'd say that if you're going to be pedestrian throwing the ball, you're going to struggle...and that always falls on the QB no matter how teflon-coatetd he thinks he is.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:31 pm
Well worth 50 million a year to have Rodgers throw to this WR corps. Maybe the contradictions in the whole strategy are becoming less invisible?
splitpea1
March 23, 2022 at 12:32 pm
Let's see who that "free agent or two" is, as well as that draft pick (maybe two) is before we speculate on how proficient the passing game will be. Right now we have a rather large void to fill. We'll also have to get Tonyan back on the field, and in the meantime, hope the other TEs/HBs pick up the slack in his absence.
Leatherhead
March 23, 2022 at 12:48 pm
We completed 402 passes last year. 123 were to Adams. That’s 30%. The other 70% …..most of our completions….were to other guys. It is reasonable to believe that some guys will catch more passes if they get more targets.
Not worried at all. We’ll be fine.
Bure9620
March 23, 2022 at 10:49 pm
Agreed, an opportunity has been created for production through a void needing to be filled, so goes the NFL.
murf7777
March 24, 2022 at 07:17 am
LH….were on the same page as long as we have a great OL!
TarynsEyes
March 23, 2022 at 01:36 pm
As long as Rodgers is accurate the passing game will look efficient, sufficient, and even create numbers that keep Rodgers near the top of the ranking chart, but that alone will not alter what seems a pattern come playoffs. The Packers' passing game will be like a boxer with a great stick'em jab, but no knockout punch.
WestCoastPackerBacker
March 23, 2022 at 01:39 pm
Won't it alter in the playoffs, when he won't be focusing on Adams primarily, as the article mentions? GB certainly missed Tonyan, MVS and Dillon in their playoff loss. That would have allowed Rodgers to spread the ball around more widely.
dobber
March 23, 2022 at 02:01 pm
It would've forced SF to defend more of the field. At least, more of the field than the part #17 was on.
TarynsEyes
March 23, 2022 at 02:14 pm
Would that really have been so difficult without Adams commanding double coverage+? The loss of Adams might force Rodgers to look elsewhere more often, but what he has to look for isn't that impressive. At least not to the expectations some believe exist. A weak two and lesser threes and fours are not difficult to defend.
dobber
March 23, 2022 at 02:42 pm
"A weak two and lesser threes and fours are not difficult to defend."
...neither is a rookie who only runs a limited route tree or isn't physical enough, yet, to get off the LOS.
Leatherhead
March 23, 2022 at 03:07 pm
I would have forced SF to prove it could stop the run, even if I went into the halftime with 0. I would have forced SF to prove it could defend the line of scrimmage. Even with our beaten up line, we moved the ball on the ground against these guys.
jannesbjornson
March 23, 2022 at 03:44 pm
When Dillon went down, the 49rs didn't have to worry about squat. The O line was at not even at 1/3 strength and Turner out of position. LaFleur didn't even attempt to give Taylor reps. How do we pound it against the best front four in football? Missing Tonyan or even a competent second TE kills the flow in a cold weather game. If Gronk was on that squad they probably play in the SB.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 23, 2022 at 04:40 pm
Dillon only had 7 carries by the time he got hurt. Pounding the ball was never part of the plan. It should have been, especially with a lead for most of the game while playing at home in inclement weather. As long as Rodgers is under center, he will never allow the run game to carry this team. They will live and die by his right arm. Come playoff time, die they will.
TarynsEyes
March 23, 2022 at 02:09 pm
The lack of a WR that commands a double team doesn't make it easier for the Packers, it makes it easier for their opponent.
shmelbs
March 23, 2022 at 03:22 pm
This is where strong, innovative coaching comes in. Talent and athleticism aren't a guaranteed victory if there isn't strong synergy with the coaching philosophy and game plan.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:40 pm
Oops
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 23, 2022 at 05:59 pm
Thats assuming the guy taking the snaps listens to the coaching.
Leatherhead
March 23, 2022 at 03:21 pm
I like that analogy....a boxer without a knockout punch.
I think one game doesn't make much of a pattern, and in the previous playoff loss we threw for over 350 yards and 3 TDs. You are on target, though, that we haven't administered that dagger-to-the-heart , it is over, checkmate .
I think in the playoffs, the plan should be to win it on the ground, until we're convinced we can't, even if that means going into the locker room with 0 points. Protect the ball, keep the defense off the field, shorten the game. If they can stop you, then I guess the second half would feature some passing. If they can't, then they'll lose.
Leatherhead
March 23, 2022 at 03:21 pm
I like that analogy....a boxer without a knockout punch.
I think one game doesn't make much of a pattern, and in the previous playoff loss we threw for over 350 yards and 3 TDs. You are on target, though, that we haven't administered that dagger-to-the-heart , it is over, checkmate .
I think in the playoffs, the plan should be to win it on the ground, until we're convinced we can't, even if that means going into the locker room with 0 points. Protect the ball, keep the defense off the field, shorten the game. If they can stop you, then I guess the second half would feature some passing. If they can't, then they'll lose.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 24, 2022 at 08:24 am
I agree wholeheartedly agree about winning playoff games (especially at home) with the run. But its never going to happen. Not with 12 under center.
jhtobias
March 23, 2022 at 01:41 pm
Well it better be with a 50 million dollar quarterback. Also for those freaking out if you truly believe this is the wr room come opening day, i have some lake front property in Arizona to sell to you.
Coldworld
March 23, 2022 at 03:32 pm
No, it’s the WR closet. Had to save somewhere.
BirdDogUni
March 23, 2022 at 06:48 pm
Lol... Arizona has lakes. (128 lakes in Arizona.) : )
stockholder
March 23, 2022 at 02:06 pm
No WR on this roster made a difference in the play-offs. The object of a WR; is to make a difference. So ////Malik Taylor ran 4.46 8.32 RAS //// was better than St. Brown getting cut? And /// Juwann Winfree ran 4.53 RAS 6.53/// really helped? And when Amari Rodgers got his chance? ( when Cobb got hurt) Blah. And boy did that field get stretched.- But MVS was hurt again. Adams tried. Oh- how this trio is Nelson, Cobb, and Finley on paper. Your mind isn't on the playoffs. It's on the saddling Rodgers with a bunch of dreadful problems. Run the ball. And when Rodgers throws it to his backs. The chains won't go anywhere. Let's just be honest. There was No #2 or #3 WR last year. And when Tonyan went down. Nobody could catch the ball over their head. Heck yes; I want new WRs. Even a new TE. They're the only ones that will take us further in the play offs. We must have deep threats.
PatrickGB
March 23, 2022 at 02:38 pm
For years this FO has undervalued WR’s and MLB’s in the draft and FA. It has come back to bite us often in the playoffs.
Leatherhead
March 23, 2022 at 03:25 pm
So the front office has undervalued WRs and MLBs in the draft and FA, how do you account for this:
We've consistently been one of the best passing offenses in the league.
We were the league's best passing attack in 2020.
How was this achieved without valuing WRs? Luck? As regards the MLB issue, didn't we have Campbell last year? And wasn't he a Pro Bowler? And didn't we resign him?
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
March 23, 2022 at 04:42 pm
How can one make a difference without opportunity? Was Lazard supposed to throw it to himself?
jannesbjornson
March 23, 2022 at 05:08 pm
Preach it, then give the rubes a share of stock for Christmas--non-voting.
Packer_Fan
March 23, 2022 at 02:46 pm
Yes, Adams is gone and MVS probably too. But the OL should be OK with Bak, Runyan, Myers,Newman and Jenkins/Nijman. We also have two excellent RB's and with Tonyan back, a stable TE group. Sure,there is a need at WR, but we have 7 picks in the top 140 and 4 in the top 60. And I expect a WR pick in the first round and perhaps more in the top 140. And there will be more releases of WR to come. I just hope Gute takes the opportunity when the time comes. I saw the OBJ signing was a missed opportunity last year.
Now the defense, the signings of Campbell, Douglas and Reed should make the defense actually better. And the draft can give the depth needed. Especially at IDL, EDGE, ILB(Leo Chenal is my take).
MooPack
March 23, 2022 at 03:19 pm
"Packers passing game will still be successful in 2022"
We'll see after the draft and what WRs get released.
Anyone here think AR is going to have any say on which WR they will draft?
Archie
March 23, 2022 at 04:06 pm
Would Gutey trade up for WR Drake London?
Would Gutey draft 2 or even 3 WR?
Would Gutey draft TE McBride in r2?
Given the opportunity, I say he does all three. We will go from rags to riches. I would like to get at least one top DL/Edge from this draft.
stockholder
March 23, 2022 at 05:31 pm
Drake broke his ankle. Refuses to work out until he feels he's ready. I knew a guy who broke his ankle. It never healed right. His baseball career was over. I would not draft him.
PackEyedOptimist
March 24, 2022 at 07:31 am
I know a guy who broke his ankle. too. Me. Playing basketball at age 30. Without surgery or top medical care, I was back playing a year later, and I was good as new in two years.
Plus, Drake's style isn't "ankle-needy." For someone like Davante, it would really cramp his style for a while, but Drake's not a quick-footed style guy.
Now, if Drake has a poor workout on April 5, he probably drops into the second round, and then I'd be happy to grab him at that point. He can be a star, and he fits the LaFleur offense perfectly.
Packers0808
March 23, 2022 at 04:24 pm
Why doesn't anyone have enough faith that one of the guys ALREADY on team may just step up given more chances now that Adams is history! Remember it took two or so for Adams to get there and I remember well the clamoring back in those days to dump him. Give people their due and chance before throwing them under the bus so easily and earlly!
Coldworld
March 24, 2022 at 09:46 am
Taylor for some reason got no chances in favor of EQ, whom they never tried to resign and is I think on a minimum deal in Chicago. Winfree might have some upside, but he is raw and might be able to contribute, but it’s a big leap indeed from there to being a leader on the O in a year.
Blair we know little about due to injury, he’s a former small small school deep threat and was as raw as they come. He seems to have 4.4 speed, but he needed to bulk up and that’s all I can tell you.
Gafford is likely a kick return candidate and lightning fast. Small school small (5’10, 187) CB converted to WR by the raiders because he can run a 4.2 40. He could play the option. He’s got an NFL touchdown on four passes, but mostly been used on STs.
AmRod we have all seen. He’s got to come In and play more like his film. I think it’s confidence, but he’s a slot/option type and behind Cobb. Unlikely to make a major impact although he could start to contribute.
That’s it. No one I see as a likely major breakout. We might get some role/depth contribution.
Packers0808
March 24, 2022 at 12:57 pm
You point out some stuff, but the leap has been done before. Also there is yet the possibility MVS could come back as yet and he has some upside that it would seem Rodgers hasn't yet tapped into!
jont
March 24, 2022 at 09:49 am
"Why doesn't anyone have enough faith that one of the guys ALREADY on team may just step up?"
There's always hope, my friend, and Packer fans are ever hopeful. "Hope springs eternal," as Alexander Pope wrote.
At the same time, Pope was a very cautious man who had many enemies and never went out into the street without his large, aggressive dog, and always with two loaded pistols in his bag so today's lesson from great literature is "Gute should draft a couple WRs."
oceanstrength
March 23, 2022 at 04:44 pm
Hey, dont forget Josiah Deguara!! He may be due for a breakout too.
The nine players that currently catch balls from Aaron Rodgers need only add about 12 catches each and the Adams deficit is filled.
oceanstrength
March 23, 2022 at 04:44 pm
Hey, dont forget Josiah Deguara!! He may be due for a breakout too.
The nine players that currently catch balls from Aaron Rodgers need only add about 12 catches each and the Adams deficit is filled.
Nate-1980
March 23, 2022 at 05:23 pm
This opinion at best is wishful thinking, the offense was the problem in the playoffs.. Yeah Rodgers locked in on adams, but to think this group of pass catchers is good enough to win it all is false..They need a vet added and top picks in the draft.. Dreaming Taylor and other unproven guys to magically become factors is a bad risk..I heard someone say trading a 3rd for cooks could work, I’d do that because I think he’s only making 12 mil this season, and he’s a baller..
LambeauPlain
March 23, 2022 at 09:11 pm
So you want THREE smaller slot WRs in Green Bay? But who knows? Cobb is oft injured and 3rd rounder AmRod needs a super sophomore season he would not get with Cooks traded for a 3rd rounder.
With MVS likely not leaving KC without a deal post Hill trade, the boundary is what the Packers need to reload. Cooks is a good talent but not a boundary. Maybe he could be. He's fast and prolific catching his targets.
Packers1985
March 23, 2022 at 05:39 pm
With Bobby Wagner's signing the rams are going be even stronger at defense. So for us to have some decent chances we would need more weapons mostly at WR. Hopefully Gutey does some magic in signing a veteran FA at WR.
Irish_Cheesehead
March 24, 2022 at 08:59 am
Gotta love the major networks spin on the Adams trade as a major gut punch to Packers fans. Most people I’ve talked to feel pretty positive about the move. I see a more balanced passing attack and overall offensive plan moving forward. Can’t wait to see what the draft brings!
coolhand
March 24, 2022 at 09:44 am
I look at it this way. If we sign Adams to the LV deal, we can't resign Campbell, Douglass, Tonyan, and may even have to let some others go to meet the cap. And we don't get the 2 draft picks. Now, does that make the team better? I say no!
BirdDogUni
March 24, 2022 at 02:02 pm
Agreed. We're much better off this way.
Hell, even if Gutey spends both the picks he obtained for DA on WRs in the 1st and 2nd rounds, we're a ton of money ahead.
Imagine if he drafts Chris Olave and Christian Watson. Or Treylon Burks and Alec Pierce. Or any other combination of WRs with 1st and 2nd round grades.
Gutey's got this, whether we agree with his choices might be another matter, but that's his job.