Packers Still Need To Add More Weapons in the Passing Game
By GilMartin
The first wave of NFL free agency is over, the 2023 NFL Draft is roughly one month away and the Green Bay Packers still need to add more weapons to their passing game. Regardless of who is the starting quarterback, the team’s present roster lacks enough receiving weapons to maximize the effectiveness of their passing game this season.
The team has definite needs at both wide receiver and tight end and there is a shortage in the depth chart at both positions.
At wide receiver, the Packers have already lost Allen Lazard to the New York Jets in free agency. Lazard led all Packers wideouts last season with 60 catches and was also the team’s best blocking receiver.
Randall Cobb is now an unrestricted free agent. The veteran is unlikely to be back with the Packers now that the team and Aaron Rodgers are expected to part ways. Injuries limited Cobb to 13 games last season and he caught 34 passes in those contests.
That leaves the Packers with no receivers with more than one year of NFL experience on their roster right now. Second-year players Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs and Samori Toure will be back in 2023. The only other receiver on the roster right now is Bo Melton who has yet to take a snap in an NFL regular season game.
All three of the second-year receivers have showed flashes of ability to varying degrees. After overcoming a slow start due to injuries and inconsistency, Watson had a breakout game in Week 10 against the Cowboys. He has the potential to become a legitimate number one receiver because of his outstanding size and speed but needs to work on his route running and be more consistent with his hands to take things to the next level.
Doubs is more of a possession receiver. He got off to a fast start in training camp and during the early part of the season but injuries slowed him in the second half of the year. Doubs hopes to improve on his 42 catch, 425 yard season and to play a full slate after missing four games a year ago.
Toure is the biggest unknown. The seventh round pick of a year ago caught five passes for 82 yards and one score in limited action on offense.
The Packers are counting on all three players taking a second-year jump, but with an inexperienced quarterback likely to take over as the starter this season, having at least one reliable veteran target becomes even more important for the team.
GM Brian Gutekunst has not signed a veteran free agent this year. It is possible the Packers could acquire a receiver in the expected Rodgers trade with the Jets although talks have stalled now for more than a week. There are not many difference makers left in free agency.
The Packers are also likely to add another wideout in the draft this year but that doesn’t address the need for an experienced receiver.
At tight end, Robert Tonyan has signed with the Chicago Bears. He led all Green Bay tight ends and was third on the team with 53 catches in 2022.
Veteran Marcedes Lewis is still unsigned and remains a free agent. Lewis is a good blocker for the run and in pass protection but is nothing more than an outlet receiver at this stage in his career. He adds experience and leadership in the locker room and has indicated he wants to play in 2023 but it may not be in Green Bay.
That leaves Josiah Deguara and Tyler Davis as the only tight ends with NFL experience presently on the roster. Deguara has been used more as a fullback and H-back. He caught 13 passes for 114 yards last season. He can play diverse roles but is not considered a downfield threat who will stretch a defense.
Davis has more speed than Deguara but has predominantly seen action on special teams. Last year, he caught four passes for 26 yards while appearing in all 17 games.
This is a very deep tight end class with at least five and as many as eight players expected to go in the early rounds of the draft. But because tight ends usually take more time to adjust to life in the NFL, it’s reasonable to expect the Packers to look for a veteran tight end who can catch the ball and give the quarterback another weapon. Whoever the Packers add should be a reliable receiver for the short-term. Going into the season with just Deguara and Davis would not be advisable.
Regardless of who is under center, the Packers need to add reliable targets at both tight end and wide receiver. They need to add youth and veterans to the mix for the pass offense to flourish this season. Gute has more work to do.
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Comments (90)
HarryHodag
March 25, 2023 at 12:14 pm
There's also shortages of talent at safety and what used to be called outside linebacker, now edge.
It all can't be solved through the draft. There are three tight ends on the big draft board that could help right away. But there's also an intriguing number of quality wide receivers. The Packers are simply short the ability to get the free agent help they need outside of the draft and we all know the reasons why.
The XFL could offer some stop-gap guys until the salary cap mess is resolved. Combing over quality teams' practice squads could be another method.
If the Packers get a #2 pick from the Jets they should consider trading out of #15 and getting an extra second and third rounder. The would give them three number twos and two number threes. For the price of one player they could pick up three more picks... That assumes, of course, some team would want to trade up.
Razor
March 25, 2023 at 12:31 pm
I like what you're saying - and hope they do it sooner rather than later!
coolhand
March 25, 2023 at 02:44 pm
There is also a shortage of cap room because of the ridiculous contract they gave Rodgers last year. Even when the trade goes through to the Jets, there will still be a $60 mil cap hit and no room to sign any experienced veteran players
croatpackfan
March 25, 2023 at 03:57 pm
No, those 58-59 mill $ goes with ACR to Jets. That is why Jets do not want to give #1. That money is option bonus that is not on cap until 1 week of September. If they trade ACR there will be only 40 mill $ dead money hit.
That is all.
Coldworld
March 25, 2023 at 06:48 pm
Do I detect dark humor Croat? Murphy’s Millstone.
croatpackfan
March 26, 2023 at 09:08 am
You got it!
dobber
March 25, 2023 at 07:53 pm
"Even when the trade goes through to the Jets, there will still be a $60 mil cap hit "
Plenty of cap analyses out there to read that would show you this is incorrect.
greengold
March 25, 2023 at 09:04 pm
Box of cookies headed your way!
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 03:50 pm
I thought the DE/OLB/EDGE class this year was supposed to be really good. I think it is, personlly
Coldworld
March 25, 2023 at 06:51 pm
Even with Hollins I think we need 2. No guarantee Gary will be back early or himself and able to play close to his snap load of last year. I’d love a guy like Garvin to have it click, but I don’t see any depth behind Enagbare, Smith and Hollins that I have much faith in.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
March 26, 2023 at 07:56 am
Yes, we have all been told how Garvin has such play strength but seems unlikely by now he is going to be anything more than he is. His days are definitely numbered. You take a look at Enagbare whose game is play strength and even in year 1 he excels.
I too believe the Packers could use two Edge players. If possible pick-up Jermain Johnson for that quick twitchy Edge, and then draft one of the beefy 270 - 280 lbs Edge like a Murphy, White, or Adetomiwa.
Ferrari-Driver
March 25, 2023 at 07:17 pm
Did you say TWO NUMBER THREES!
Razor
March 27, 2023 at 09:34 am
Yes. Jets traded a receiver to Cleveland for a #2 draft pick. So Jets now have #42 and #43 picks.
4thand10
March 25, 2023 at 08:31 pm
@ HarryHodag Actually, if you wanna go back further to a 4-3 cover 2 the OL/Edge was called a Defensive End. Kampman was a Defensive End converted to OLB when Capers rolled into town. Reggie White was a defensive End.
Razor
March 25, 2023 at 12:25 pm
Am I the only Packer fan who is worried that Rodgers might do something really stupid and cause the Jets to walk away? A recent podcast made the point that given the less than stellar quality of this draft class at the top, that two relatively high 2nd round picks would have a similar value to a #14 or so first rounder. Plus, GB already has a 2nd round pick -- so that would result in GB having 42, 43 & 45. So, with their own first round pick they would have four picks of the top 50 players. Also possible to swap #15 for #13. Ok all kinds of other possible tweaks but I like four picks in the top 50. And again I worry about Rodgers screwing up the deal -- and blaming the Packers. Get him gone and focus full attention on the draft, free agency, etc. I personally am very excited and optimistic about the future.
Also, for reference, Bart Starr didn't start until his 4th season! Favre was about to be cut by the Falcons! AR went 6-10 in his first starting season. Give Love a chance -- anxious to see him in the MLF offense.
One more thing. If I'm MLF, I am cranking full-out on the defense. Must be top ten.
Your thoughts?
Heyward
March 25, 2023 at 01:11 pm
I expect the trade to eventually be completed, but the way the Packers have bungled things with Rodgers the past few years, nothing would surprise me.
HawkPacker
March 25, 2023 at 01:19 pm
Razer, not so sure the Falcons were about to cut Favre since we have up a #1 for him.
Razor
March 25, 2023 at 02:21 pm
You are correct about #1 pick — my mistake.
Coldworld
March 25, 2023 at 07:07 pm
Their coach had said Favre would never see the field again. Allegedly the GM was a friend of Wolf and knew of his interest in a guy who, by his own admission, was discouraged by the mess of a franchise and coaching atmosphere, bored, overweight and partying so much he reeked of alcohol in meetings. Sounds like the last kind if prospect to gamble on. Wolf offered a first for that. Thank goodness.
croatpackfan
March 26, 2023 at 09:11 am
I think you forget that Favre was on rookie deal and young, while ACR brings cap hit with him and is old.
PackEyedOptimist
March 25, 2023 at 04:09 pm
A bunch of 2s would be great with this draft class.
But as far as your "full-out on the defense" I see this draft the opposite way.
First of all, it's a weak defensive draft except at CB and EDGE, so odds are, when it's the Packers turn to pick, the BAP isn't going to be a defensive player.
Secondly, with a new, young, QB, I want as many good pieces as possible to be added to help him be successful; the talent is deep at TE, WR, and RB, and our OL is in good shape, so it's a great year to draft offensive weapons.
greengold
March 25, 2023 at 09:49 pm
PEO, you’re right we do need to balance that out on the O side, and some tough decisions loom. Skill players? OTs???
Man, if a decade+ starting LT drops in our laps, we might want to tap that. I’m still wanting that Ferrari of a slot WR, but, TE trumps that for me.
I think chances are the best of the TE lot will be gone by 42, and a simple trade down of 10 spots might hurt us. Weirdly, we’re probably over drafting TEs at 13 and/or 15, but, I don’t see avoiding that. We’ll miss out on other great players for the TE love. I might be ok with that.
The more I think about it, I want the Packers to draft the very best classic Y - TE, the badass blocker who can release as a receiving matchup nightmare. Adding that will help our WRs immensely.
Torn between Mayer & Washington a bit. Guess there’s time to deep dive.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
March 26, 2023 at 08:02 am
Green & Gold,
Summarizes exactly what I have been thinking for quite some time. Every single word & thought!
greengold
March 25, 2023 at 08:31 pm
Hey Razor, I don’t think there’s any chance AR blows this trade up. I think it’s already done, and they’re just waiting for max exposure/impact in announcing it immediately preceding or during Day1 of the draft.
I’ve sworn off discussing trade terms scenarios after stating I think GB will get not quite as much but closer to recent Stafford & Wilson market value. The Packers aren’t going to give a 4-Time MVP & a Super Bowl Champion away for chump change.
nfldotcom clearly feels same, as their recent mocks have us picking at both #13 & #15.
I’m convinced Bak’s extension being very trade friendly, coinciding with Rodgers decision that same Friday to express his wishes to play for NYJ says it all. They’ll be separate deals because Bak can’t be traded by GB prior to June 2nd, but I’m convinced it happens. Add in the Lazard signing. Then the Mecole Hardman cherry on top, to me, says it’s in the can. Fini.
Love? Seems right on schedule. Maybe a year behind, but 2 MVPs by AR and a pandemic explains that, and still, on schedule.
I suspect Jordan Love will surprise many in this NFL in 2023.
BirdDogUni
March 26, 2023 at 10:45 am
I don't think there's any way AR blows up a trade to the Titans either. Messing with the PFF simulator and it is easy to trade AR to the Titans for 11 and 41, just saying.
I think it is ludicrous to think the Jest are the only team wishing they had AR for a year or 3... I would LMAO if Gutey trades AR to the Titans on draft day, only to have the Jest have to give up a King's Ransom to the Titan's to get him...
Not only would that piss me off, because Gutey couldn't get the King's Ransom, but that the Jest would have to, to get AR from the Titans.
Imagine. The Titan's easily giving up their 1st and 2nd round picks, then the Jest calling when they're on the clock at 13. Titan's hold their feet to the fire. It costs the Jest their 13, 42, 43, and next year's 1st rounder... (Not only do we look like fools, so do the Jest!)
Don't tell me it isn't plausible, because I definitely think it is...
fair_weather
March 25, 2023 at 08:49 pm
Your ideas intrigue me and I would like to subscribe to your newsletter.
PhantomII
March 25, 2023 at 09:29 pm
We may not be able to do it at all this year, but I'm way more in favor of getting the nucleus in draft and filling the rest or misses thru FA. I think the offense...missing a #1 WR, a #2 WR and a TE is a big deal. Watson will be a #1 eventually but we need a projected 1-2 WR or 2 to go along with him, not to mention much better TE's that are a consistent red zone threat. Barry will not do us any favors on defense regardless...that's where I am with that, so we will need to score more points. FA may be an option for us in a year or 2. In the mean time JL needs to target top talent ASAP.
Bgordo1
March 26, 2023 at 08:37 am
Not worried Rodgers might do something he’s already stated his intent but that Gutey might overplay his hand and the jets look elsewhere.
splitpea1
March 25, 2023 at 12:42 pm
Maybe the title of the article should be changed to "Packers Will Need To Develop More Weapons In The Passing Game", because we aint got no money and the leftovers aren't too appetizing. There's no point in signing another Sammy Watkins, and as TEs go, most of them are either old, coming off injury, or probably unaffordable. If we do manage to land a decent veteran WR vai trade, that would obviously be a bonus.
Look at it this way: Doubs, Watson, and Toure ARE veterans, so why take opportunities away from them as we develop a couple more (which includes at prime TE prospect in the draft)?
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 03:48 pm
The only veteran WR I would consider would be Mack Hollins, formerly of the Raiders. At 6'4, 221 lbs, and with the highest run-blocking grade among WRs last year (even lining up as an in-line TE on some snaps), he could be kind of like a poor man's Allen Lazard and provide a valuable veteran presence. His market value is 2.4m/yr, so if we signed him to a 2-year deal he'd be affordable
PackEyedOptimist
March 25, 2023 at 01:12 pm
I regularly pick two tight ends and two WRs in my simulations (I got Q Johnston, D Washington, J Mingo, and Strange this morning).
I think I’ll be disappointed if we don’t end up with two of both.
Side note, Carter fell to 15 in one of my sims…I took him.
LeotisHarris
March 25, 2023 at 02:33 pm
I'd love to see the Firm of Johnson, Washington, Mingo & Strange on board. They'd ramp up expectations in the area formerly known as the Roehl Red Zone, and give Bye, Goff & Rhode some competition for radio airtime.
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 03:47 pm
Mingo is great! I doubt, in real life, though, that Johnston falls to 15th overall (or 13th, or whenever we pick
TKWorldWide
March 27, 2023 at 12:43 pm
Heck, I got Bryce Young at 15.
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 01:45 pm
I've ran many mock scenarios and notice the first round is all over the place from week to week. Teams will settle this year on what they need. My ruleset so far:
Trade down in the first round for draft capital since you could really pick up Mayer/Washington/Musgrave. I get the allure of Washington, but please don't waste pick 15 on him. This should get you to 2nd round np. And if this was my job, I bet I could find another late rounder who can block as a plan B because...
If Bijan falls to 15, take him. We could(should) shift an RB to WR in schemes and this could reduce the need for a WR focused draft. One crazy thing we learned last year; the only effective RBs left towards the end of the playoffs could catch the ball(shift def attention to the outside),otherwise top defenses were ready for most RBs.
There are Edges and LBs galore this year. I liked Drew Sanders because of his energy but really its hard not to pick a talent this year.
Draft a wide receiver with good hands and can make those contested catches, especially if we don't have Mayer/Washington from a late 1st rounder. The one I want is late second/early third and a great compliment to Watson. If you watched the senior bowl, you know which one. Traded up to get Watson was very much worth it. This is another, late round second/early third - get in before the other WR needy teams do.
Bottom line, find out who wants to give up the most this year to move up. I'd even trade to get in even more picks in the second round if "that guy" falls further than expected. That scenario will happen a lot this year.
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 03:46 pm
Stay away from RBs in the first. You can always find good ones in the later rounds (Aaron Jones, Alvin Kamara). If you want to improve your run game, then first improve the OL.
Jack Campbell of Iowa (a ILB) is a player I think we should seriously consider drafting. He is a throwback, old-school LB who tackles hard and surely, is phenomonal against the run, and is underrated in coverage.
His physical style of playing, football IQ, hard-working mentality, and leadership is EXACTLY what the Packers need in the middle of their defense to give the defense a facelift. De'Vondre is 30, regressed last year, and we could save about 1.9m by trading him after June first.
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 03:58 pm
I'm all for grabbing Peter first half of the draft. But, I'm trying to work with what we have. I should put him next to Bijan honestly, but if I had the choice of one over the other I would go with Bijan and chances are we only get one pick in the first.
And you normally stay away from RBs in the first. Normally - Bijan isn't normal.
And for Jack Campbell, I put him at equal value to talent as Drew. Just like how Drew pumps up the crowd. I think he would help keep spirits high on defense, which is bigger than most people think.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
March 26, 2023 at 08:10 am
I would have absolutely zero problems with the Packers taking Bijan at #15 as he is special. I have been making this case for sometime, however the drafting of Bijan depends on how the Packers utilize him in 2023. If he is strictly rotating behind AJ it is a wasted pick.
stockholder
March 25, 2023 at 03:00 pm
The Offense sucks in this draft.
Don't care what your simulator comes up with.
It Sucks. Sure they'll start.
But didn't Lazard teach you anything?
How about Tonyan? Jones?
So- never pass on Talent for Need.
The Defense still needs help.
And edge is what should be first.
Give me Nolan Smith.
The comparison is CM3.
But He just might be the best fix.
For a Aging P. Smith
And maybe now a hurt Gary.
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 03:41 pm
How about Will McDonald of Iowa St? In my opinion he is the top pure speed rusher in the draft. He is deceptively strong, too. Just look at his highlights. He tied Von Miller's Big 12 sack record.
Other edge rushers I like: Lukas Van Ness of Iowa (not sure if he would play stand-up or 4i, maybe both), Myles Murphy of Clemson (like a Rashan Gary clone), Felix Anudike-Uzomah of Kansas St. (always seems to get to the QB), Derick Hall of Auburn (has great speed and power), and Isaiah McGuire of Missouri (is a physical beast with great production - he's being severely underrated IMO)
stockholder
March 25, 2023 at 03:48 pm
Felix Anudike-Uzomah of Kansas St. !
His pro day is coming. Love the tape.
jannesbjornson
March 26, 2023 at 08:46 am
If they cannot move down from #15, take him there. The speed guys are light in the pants and will get washed out against the run. Get a quick twitch guy later, even Herbig in the 5th. Thomas Incoom from C.Michigan. If the TEs roll off the board in the second, take Zach Harrison, plug two holes and get better.
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 03:56 pm
And he's going to be cheaper than Nolan theoretically. But there are other great rushers, but I really do like McDonald.
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 03:50 pm
Lazard and Tonyan taught me that you can teach blocking, especially if the player is built that way and is hungry to learn - which is why I wouldn't pick a WR or TE in this draft at 15. Jones is a rare occurrence, and he always had good tape.
Now let me ask you - what did Christian McCaffrey teach you?... Go watch Bijan slip tackles and change direction with such a swiftness it would give McCaffrey a run for his money. Look at how McCaffrey is when given the right schemes and the right talent around him, helping bring a mediocre record team to a undefeated monster of a team.
Oh, and they had Nick Bosa, so no I don't think an Edge is going to change the game significantly enough because their role just isn't as impactful as a good running back. Nolan has also been trained to run down ball carriers, not really experienced in pass rushing. Sure, teachable, but not worth 15 to me. The Packers also run Nickel more often than not, and Nolan has been successful the most in 3-4. The Packers run Nickel, because over 90% of team play with 3 or less receivers at a time. We picked Walker because we want to fill the box. LB can adjust to the outside, it was in the middle where we were getting beat before Walker. A good O line can push an Edge to the outside long enough for the play to develop. I'm not saying Nolan isn't adaptable, and not worth a late 1st round pick, but 15 is pushing it for me.
Look at how our season changed as we learned how to incorporate Jones properly.
And I would say the game has evolved and more often than not offense gets hurt. A lot of studs that are high up got hurt somewhere in their college seasons - it's the nature of the game. They are the one's getting hit - another reason why McCaffrey wasn't more impactful for the Panthers winning more games. But he's healthy now... and it's pretty obvious.
If you scheme moving Jones and Bijan around, trust me defenses might stop even trying to rush you as hard because you can just run around them depending on who the problem lineman is. That's why they moved around Aidan last year, and would have to switch Nolan around if he was our "star" guy. But can they really pick up the scent of what we are going to do? That's where we need to develop a good scheme over all with star players on offense.
I can't say this enough - because of the eaten up salary cap of Adams/Rodgers duo, in the gamers where it counted, the Packers remained predictable. You need multiple weapons to keep defenses guessing. You only fill the pillars in accordingly as you start to see one crumble. That's why, again, we chose Walker first last year.
PatrickGB
March 25, 2023 at 04:03 pm
Like many, I have often fell for the notion that a team should not draft a RB high. In fact, I cringed when we used a second round pick on Dillon. But Bijan may be an outlier to that notion. He can also be a receiver. He could be a game changer and Jones is not getting any younger.I would love to have him. However, I could not see the team using a first rounder on him when we have so many other needs.
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 04:04 pm
I am with you in that I think that Nolan will be too small for the 3-4. He never played in the 3-4 in college. He could work as a 4-3 OLB like Reddick of the Eagles did.
You lost me at taking Bijan Robinson though. In my opinion, RBs are, in general, a dime a dozen. There may be a few that stand out, like CMC, Henry, and Saquon, but I generally believe that if you want to improve the run game you should beef up the OL.
Look at Saquon Barkley. While he's a great player, guess who the Giants passed on to take him? Denzel Ward, Quenton Nelson, Roquan Smith, and Josh Allen, to name a few.
The reality is that the positional value of RB is low. The Chiefs won the SB with a 7th-round pick and a 31 year old on a 1-year deal for less than 2m as their top 2 RBs. Is Miles Sanders the greatest RB in the league? No.
I would recommend we pick a position with more value, ideally one that fills a large need. Our RB room may be the strongest position group on our roster.
It may not look like it on TV all the time, but a good edge rusher is WAY more impactful than a good RB.
stockholder
March 25, 2023 at 04:12 pm
Micah Parsons - was considered too small.
Take the speed. TT did with CM3.
PackyCheese500
March 26, 2023 at 07:34 am
Parsons also plays in a 4-3
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 04:35 pm
I agree, most RBs are a dime a dozen, and the Oline is very important.
Saquon is a great player, and I am not saying to pass on other greats to take Bijan, but there are not a lot of other "that's a guaranteed star" scenarios. Some players in your list I would argue to take Barkley over still, and some I def agree with you. It's how you scheme an RB. And I'm banking on people having the "don't take an RB in the first" mentality so Bijan falls to 15.
The Chiefs argument is the best one that even I struggled with before. However, that is a team with tons of weapons and Pacheco (I call him Plinko) runs with a passion I've not seen often, but really is not as talented as Bijan. If Pacheco maintains that aggression in his running for 2-3 more years, I'll be surprised.
Miles Sanders was good because of the Oline so you have a point there as well. It's definitely a factor in the run game.
What I am getting at, is running a RB that is a consistent talent, that is also a swiss army knife. The point of an offense is to run as many schemes as you can - efficiently. And that's the key, the more you add for workload to a player, the less efficient they get. This is why SF's schemes and McCaffrey go together like PB&J.
There are other solid Oline later in the draft as well. The guy from NDSU for instance looks like a good value, but maybe there would be a teaching curve like our other current prospects. But, these are teachable roles. Darnell Washington got better at blocking because he was called out on it, now look at him.
Currently we have Jenkins, and Bakh, etc - sure some are getting older, but we drafted some promising talent at Oline last year that could really shine this year. It's not the best, but when Dillon found holes he was better than Miles so how do you go about finding those holes? Pure strength? No.
I played tackle, and I'm by no means an expert, and every pillar in the league will tell you how important the pillars are. But for Oline, being able to work efficiently as a team is really important - that you have to teach regardless. Being able to throw off defensive pillars takes the attention point of a "versatile" RB you have to worry about.
Will Anderson was asked how they were so good, and he mention how they had to "prepare" for RBs like Bijan - he mentioned him by name. That means their attention by default has to acknowledge and respect Bijan. This is the same respect Watson deserves on the outside, because he runs good routes and has blazing speed. It's why in the Vikings game, we put emphasis on JJ, and were able to gritty all day. We had enough personnel to actually take him out of the game - unlike the first game, which was not fun to watch. Now, think if we didn't have Walker and they were able to run on us? You think we could of stayed on JJ like we did in that game? No, your attention gets split and you have to run 3-4 on some reads because you think they are going to run, and then you end up being wrong.
Bijan would help open it up for our receivers the same as Jones does. "Is Watson looking like he's dipping downfield because I have Jones coming this way or is this a bomb? Or, should I stay just a touch more flat footed in this double coverage because last time they ran this they chunked big yards on us." Every player has a role, and you need to humble their defense during the game, not before or after.
All of our superbowl teams (and all of the teams I remember in recent years) have had multiple offensive weapons - all of them - with or without a shifty QB. We don't have enough currently, but we are very close.
PhantomII
March 25, 2023 at 05:38 pm
Chiefs had a prolific passer under center, a guy with mobility and will run and WILL his team to victory...We had AR. Both of our RB's were knocked out of 2 different playoff ending attempts. A.Jones has no replacement on the team and Dillon has become indecisive on commitment of run gaps. I would prefer 2 of each type on the team and a great RB with good vision and great hands can easily be put in the pass game also as this draft cycle is heavy on 2nd tier WR's and Heavy on tier 1-2 TE's. Regardless, we need a better option at our second string RB compilation with an evident Jones replacement...and it's not Dillon.
stockholder
March 25, 2023 at 04:07 pm
You are correct about Bijan.
He's a generational talent.
But I'm betting he will be gone by #15.
So I'm saying edge.
Even over Dt.
Gutes timing is always a year late.
For positional Need.
He can get a edge player in the second over safety.
White, McDonald, and now Foskey,
should be there.
Oppy
March 25, 2023 at 07:48 pm
"Gutes timing is always a year late.
For positional Need."
You also said, in this very same comments section:
"so- never pass on Talent for Need."
can you rectify these comments for me?
Is Gutekunst supposed to be drafting for need first, or is he supposed to draft for talent first? It seems on the surface you are knocking Gutekunst for following your own advice..?
jannesbjornson
March 26, 2023 at 09:55 am
#15 to TB for #19/82.
#19 to Cincy #28/60.
#28 Uzomah K-State Edge
#45/ 4th 2023 to Caroina l for #39
#39 Tillman Tenn WR
#60 Kraft SD State TE
#78 Benton Badgers DT
#82 J.Brents K-State CB
#116/3rd 2024 SF for #102
#102 Zach Harrison OSU Edge
#149 Mekhi Garner LSU CB/S
#170 Luepke NDS RB/FB
#232,235,242 for #209
#209 Max Duggan TCU QB
#256 Ben Sims Baylor TE
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 03:53 pm
Just because we can develop talent on the offense, doesn't mean we should have to every single season gents lol. That's only worked out so well.
I'd like to see points on the board this season.
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 03:38 pm
Before adding more weapons, let's FIX THE O-LINE! Much good all these weapons will do for Love if he doesn't have any time to throw!
Give me Skoronski in the first. Has the best positional versatility, high football IQ, good work ethic, and, most importantly, WANTS to be a Packer.
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 03:51 pm
I'd agree with this only if I thought he could fall to 13/15. But I don't think we are getting 13 without giving away an O-line, then we would have to pray to have him fall to 13 lol.
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 03:57 pm
We could still end up with 13 if we swapped first-rounders with the Jets in the Rodgers trade.
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 04:10 pm
That's true, but then I wonder if we don't get a second from them. I watched Peter vs Hutchinson, and thought Aidan looked like a child during those reps lol so I'm all for a rock at Oline - wouldn't be upset at all.
Shutting down Hutchinson like that proves my point overall though. We need multiple weapons. Jones is versatile so when he's on the field, all of the defense has to keep track of where he is. When Dillon is on the field, you need to make sure the box is filled. With Watson, you need to watch any motion, and check who is on him.
Jones wakes up/distracts almost the whole defense. This is why adding McCaffrey changed the game for SF.
You switch Jones on Bijan on a constant basis, and you have a very confused defense.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
March 26, 2023 at 08:12 am
Don't want any OL in round 1 this year, unless the Packers end up with two first round picks and DB was traded to the Jet's. Then that is almost a certainty! Would still draft an OT later in the draft regardless whether DB was traded or not.
PhantomII
March 25, 2023 at 04:07 pm
If ML changed the OL to big nasty run game type, I would agree. That would go a long way in improving our offense for the better and more closely match the ideal OL of the Eagles for a post season run in the near future.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
March 26, 2023 at 08:14 am
Than you would probably start with drafting Darnell Washington at TE.
Chrsa
March 27, 2023 at 11:46 am
Skoronski also wants to be a Bear.
BirdDogUni
March 27, 2023 at 11:55 am
Good!
PhantomII
March 25, 2023 at 03:43 pm
I was hoping for a swap of #13 for #15 and both 2nd rounders and another conditional 2nd rounder in 2024 if AR is still a jet. That does not seem too much or too little and AR would be off to N.Y. Last years contract should not have been done with no WR#1 or #2 WR on the team, it was a misguided attempt by our Management and a money grab by QB1 which did not allow money in FA to fix the WR position and Gute never going ALL IN with future draft picks to this day. You are not going all in to win in the post season without using next years picks to get the player you NEED NOW. If we get the move up and the 2nd RD picks, I would also burn a future #1 pick and draft Edge, WR, TE and OT in the first 2 rounds and maybe S , but a second TE would be nice also and the Safeties in this class are not tier 1 players.
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 03:51 pm
I do not want to and I don't think Gutey will be sacrificing any future draft capital on days 1 or 2 of the 2024 draft.
Sydney Brown of Illinois IMO is the best safety in the draft. He should be available in round 2.
PhantomII
March 25, 2023 at 07:28 pm
I believe with AR gone our 2024 #1 would be rated by other teams as a top 10 pick in 24', but if we use it in 2023 I think it will help us more and allow for a better record this season than last and get more offensive talent, as Barry has not been able to use what he has as it is on defense with any consistency.
PackyCheese500
March 25, 2023 at 04:18 pm
The latest mock draft with an Aaron Rodgers trade:
Jets get: 15th overall pick, QB Aaron Rodgers
Packers get: 13th overall pick, 42nd overall pick, 43rd overall pick, 2024 conditional 3rd-round pick,* 2024 6th-round pick
13: OT Peter Skoronski, Northwestern - Most versatile OL in the draft. High football IQ, good work ethic, and, most importantly, WANTS to be a Packer
42: LB Jack Campbell, Iowa - Hard-working, physical LB. Old-school play style. Exceptional in run defense and underrated in coverage. High football IQ. Exactly the kind of leader we need in the middle of our defense. De'Vondre is 30 and regressed last year (massively against the run), and we could save 1.8m by trading him post-June first.
43: WR Cedric Tillman, Tennessee - Is a good route-runner, good possession target, and good deep receiver as well. Best of all are his hands - he rarely drops anything. Exactly what Love needs as a #2 WR opposite Watson
45: TE Tucker Kraft, South Dakota St. - Great all-around TE. A great in-line run blocker who will do the dirty work and a great receiver as well. Is excellent at getting yards after the catch; reminds me of Kittle. Has high upside
78: EDGE Isaiah McGuire, Missouri - One of the most underrated players in the draft, IMO. He is a physical beast who meets the Packers' size requirements, and is great against the run and in the pass rush - had 9 sacks last season.
116: DT Brodric Martin, Western Kentucky - We need more big guys who can stop the run along our DL. The development of Slaton and Wyatt should improve our DL (also if Clark is healthy), but we need another guy or two to rotate in. Martin is 6'5, 338 lbs with 34.3 inch arms and an 84.3 inch wingspan. Had 22 pressures and 2 sacks, and the upside is there as a pass rusher.
149: S Jason Taylor II, Oklahoma St. - The safety class this year isn't that great, and assuming Ford and Douglas will be starting there, we can take Taylor. A good tackler and is also good in coverage. Can play on STs early.
170: QB Aidan O’Connell, Purdue - Love's future backup.
232: WR Jared Wayne, Pittsburgh - An underrated possession receiver who is also a good run blocker.
235: TE Blake Whiteheart, Wake Forest - I like him on film a lot. Is a great receiver who makes great catches, runs good routes, and often gets substantial YAC. Is a willing blocker too.
242: CB Charles Woods, West Virginia - Has the versatility to play slot and boundary.
256: S John Torchio, Wisconsin - With his ball-tracking skills and playmaking instincts, Torchio, in my opinion, could turn in to a major late-round draft steal.
Lootstone
March 25, 2023 at 05:34 pm
I really like how you formatted this out, and you gave me some guys I didn't even look at so I appreciate it! I'll have to find time to write one up and post mine. Two questions though:
Where did you find a draft that has Peter fall below 12? I've had 1 scenario in my hundreds so far. This guys stands out; I don't see him falling that far.
If you had only pick 15, what would you go with?
Reason I ask is because knowing a scenario where Peter doesn't fall, and or not putting all your eggs in one basket in pick 13... The Packers are in negotiations with the Jets who refuse to think they don't have leverage. So if we do allow a trade, I go 42, 43 and that's it, because it's conservative and my bare minimum for Rodgers. I'd just bench him and call the bluff on his "legacy" and "I could turn down the money" speeches. I'd pay 60 mil dead cap just to educate the public on the lack of transparency on Rodgers end (and reiterate Rodgers is my QB1 - only during this scenario am I disappointed in him for the first time in his career)
Extra Credit lol: Do you have a list of guys that could fill the different rounds if your picks get taken?
Also, spot on with Torchio!
PackyCheese500
March 26, 2023 at 07:41 am
Hmm. My guess is Paris Johnson and Broderick Jones are the first 2 OL taken, and I think Skoronski may slide a bit due to arm length concerns. I don’t think he makes it past 13 though.
If I could not get Skoronski in the first, I would either take edge Lukas Van Ness of Iowa, WR Jaxon Smith Njigba of Ohio St (it’s more likely he’ll be available than Johnston) or TE Darnell Washington of Georgia. If none of those guys, I’d trade back.
If he falls a bit, I would not hesitate to trade up for edge Myles Murphy of Clemson. The dude is like a Gary clone
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
March 26, 2023 at 08:25 am
Packy,
Myles Murphy does seem like a clone of Gary & why so intriguing. I see you consistently taking Van Ness in round 1. Believe Van Ness may have been your #1 choice in round 1 just a few weeks ago. Curious how you distinguish him over say Murphy, White, or Adetomiwa? Jeez then you have the smaller quick Edge guys such as McDonald, or a Nolan Smith.
My whole approach to this draft at Edge is the position is soooo deep I would totally avoid Edge in round 1, and draft one of the better Edge players somewhere in round 2 as they will be available. I want to stay focused in round 1, and draft an elite player who will become an immediate starter and contributor, particularly on offense. While I would be shocked I'd be okay should the Packers draft a DL such as Kancey, or Bresee in round 1. Drafting an Edge in round 1 would surprise me.
lou
March 25, 2023 at 06:43 pm
The team hasn't drafted an all-around TE since Bubba Franks in 2000, Finley looked like a blocking TE but was basically another receiver and a really good one until injured. Another Bubba type to compliment the excellent backs and solid offensive line plus adding a tall red zone TD threat would be a great boost to the offense no matter who the QB will be.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
March 26, 2023 at 08:29 am
You seem to be identifying Darnell Washington!
ko40489
March 25, 2023 at 07:42 pm
Other than QB, RB and CB, doesn't seem that there's a position that couldn't use more talent and/or depth. When the drafts are consistently rated C, draft and develop yields a bunch of C level players. It should tell you something when players that Gutey is high on get cut, they never play in the NFL again.
EnemyTerritory
March 25, 2023 at 08:02 pm
IMHO the draft will bring both a WR and a TE. Of course these are both rookies. QB12 will be traded at the June 1 date to reduce the cap hit. At that point they will pick up June1 WR cuts. I’ve said it before, the cap relief is the key. Playoffs and Uber competitiveness is not in the cards this season. Load up in 24 draft picks and when you have cap space and trade bait as well as a QB with experience
greengold
March 25, 2023 at 09:19 pm
Gil, this is a great piece hitting on a number of interesting points.
Myself, I’m not as concerned about adding a veteran WR for the same reasons I’m not concerned with adding a veteran QB as a backup for Love. Neither are necessities.
We’re going in a new direction with youth. Love has Tom Clements as his QB Coach, Joe Montana’s favorite QB Coach. Doesn’t get better.
Neither Watson, nor Doubs, nor Toure are rookies. Love is hosting a throw-catch session on his own in California. A nice sign these young players are motivated together to hit the ground running on all cylinders Game 1 2023. Refreshing AF. Wow! Nice to hear, and that alone says a lot.
I’m super impressed w Love’s maturity & levelheadedness.
Maybe they add a WR at roster cuts as a mentor. Probably all they could afford given the trade timing.
A number of rookie TEs have started with reasonable success, especially of late. R1 TEs generally are immediate starters, and I could see GB adding two of those R1 rated guys with a little luck, or by just snapping off the two best at 13 & 15.
You’re right. It’s a highly unusual, deep TE class, and a lot of teams will be lining up to take them. We should get at the very least one of the best.
PhantomII
March 25, 2023 at 09:57 pm
Thanks gg, for hitting on a major issue. If you are really trying to take home a trophy...you do a little extra. AR learned how not to throw INT's from Favre to succeed. I believe J.Love has learned a lot from AR of what to do and what not to do. I was impressed with him taking over in the Eagles game and how he operated against a top rated and eventual super bowl team. He is taking the off-season to spend some time with the his receivers and get in sync with them EARLY. GB has been the most lethargic mess coming out of pre-season of any team I ever watch. It takes 3-5 games to start firing and they never fire on all cylinders for more than a couple plays in a row. I have great hopes for this kid and what he has learned what to do and what not to do from AR. GPG!!!
greengold
March 26, 2023 at 06:09 am
Yeah. At least we have a young core here who looks really motivated to deliver the goods. Some of the best news this offseason, to me.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
March 26, 2023 at 06:57 am
Phantom,
In wholehearted agreement!
From college Love was a gunslinger (some of it might have been because of the lack of talent his senior year), but I think he has some of that gunslinger in him. I keep saying with him sitting for 3 years watching AR play & win two consecutive MVP's it absolutely had to have been the best thing for him. I don't expect him to ever throw as few Interceptions as AR because nestled within Love is some of that gunslinger, however I am expecting to see Love's style to fall somewhere say in-between Favre's style, and that of Aaron Rodgers style. To be honest, from my opinion that would be the best of both worlds. Favre was too risky & would implode at critical times while I have always thought AR style was too conservative & sterile in the middle of the field leaving plays/yardage on the field. I realize there is a trade off! I am really looking forward to see exactly what style Jordan Love evolves into.
greengold
March 26, 2023 at 08:36 am
Trust me, the most accurate passer in all of FBS in 2018 is a gunslinger. He also was acknowledged to have the strongest arm in his 2019 draft class.
LoveGun.
jannesbjornson
March 27, 2023 at 12:33 am
He wasn't drafted to hand the ball off, he has the deep out capability.
greengold
March 27, 2023 at 06:44 am
Well, there’s that. “Can make any throw from any platform,” kinda stuff.
He’ll likely be more scheme compliant, as far as running the football. When LaFleur was OC at TEN, their RBs were getting high volume attempts +50.
jannesbjornson
March 27, 2023 at 08:08 am
It is a passing league. Let him Play.
Boneman
March 26, 2023 at 05:14 am
I wouldn't put much stock in the draft syms just yet. Closer to the draft they might be more accurate with rankings and player needs. I can't put faith in any rankings or syms that have Levis and Richardson going so high! Back in the day neither gets drafted before the 3rd round.
WD
March 26, 2023 at 08:06 am
We do not need a high draft pick for a WR. Remember that Doubs was a 5th round and Toure was a 7th round. I would not count out Bo Melton either because of his speed. In the draft grab the TE from Georgia who blocks like an offensive tackle with the first pick.That will help both OL and passing game Then, keep improving the defense. The safeties were a disappointment at the combine other than they guy from Illinois who could be had in a later round. Frankly I wish we could keep Amos. He will likely rebound from last years performance.
PhantomII
March 26, 2023 at 11:28 am
other than our QB1 hopeful abilities and lack of proven WR group, we are still built for the post season right now. So I think Edge needs shored up a bit and we need a couple #1 WR prospects next to Watson and a couple TE's. So It depends how things work out with QB1 as to how we need to proceed. There was an enormous lack of WR talent drop off after DA left. We need a couple chain movers that get fed a lot or our run game needs a big infusion of people movers...either will work...preferably both.
greengold
March 26, 2023 at 11:43 am
Phantomll, I’m 100% in on adding top chain movers. Doesn’t mean TE R1, though, and I’m more excited about the possibility of GB adding that true WR1-type, with all the goods in April’s R1.
If either of WR Quentin Johnston or WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba drop in our laps, I’m in.
There’s another I dig later should that not materialize.
PhantomII
March 26, 2023 at 03:45 pm
It will be refreshing to have 2-3 good WR's to hurt other teams and a QB who will throw to any of them at any time to keep the offense moving the chains. I'm pretty good with our run game but I do wish Jones had an heir apparent close to his skill set of a real weapon waiting in the wings...but added to the rotation some and in the pass game so when Jones is gone he is ready to roll.
TKWorldWide
March 26, 2023 at 11:48 am
Doubs was a 4th.
BirdDogUni
March 27, 2023 at 12:35 pm
Gutey gets real with the Jets and demands 13, 42, & 43 in a trade for Rodgers, with no additional picks in '24.
13: Quentin Johnston WR TCU - True #1 WR for Jordan Love making double teaming Watson less likely.
15: Broderick Jones LT Georgia - Bakhtiari starts the season until Jones is up to speed and Bahk is traded to the Jets before the deadline for '24 first round pick.
42: Jahmyr Gibbs RB Alabama - Playmaker put in a position to stress defenses from the backfield and the slot. Could allow Packers to move Aaron Jones before the trade deadline.
43: Darnell Washington TE Georgia - True #1 TE for Jordan Love.
45: Matthew Bergeron RT Syracuse - Starting RT to solidify OL and add versatility.
78: Andre Carter II OLB ARMY - Monster of a man who can provide rotational pass rush until he gets stronger.
116: JL Skinner S Boise State - Safety Depth
149: Ronnie Hickman S Ohio State - Safety Depth
170: Jerrod Clark NT Coastal Carolina - 6' 10" wingspan (Need I say more?) Can play NT so Wyatt and Clark can feast.
232: Hunter Luepke FB North Dakota State - Can run, catch, and block. A piece MaLF can put in position to succeed. ST's.
235: Alex Forsyth C Oregon - Adds depth to our OL room.
242: Evan Hull RB Northwestern - Can run, catch, and block. Has 4.47 speed and can contribute to ST's.
256: Tavius Robinson OLB Mississippi - 6' 6" 257 lbs 4.66 - 40 time. I don't think there is any way he lasts to the 7th round, but in this simulation he did, to our benefit.
SinceLombardi
March 28, 2023 at 06:58 am
I just hope Watson isn’t a fragile injury prone WR