The Packers Receiving Corps Is Gonna Be Just Fine

The Packers didn't make a big trade for a wide receiver, they didn't even draft one with either of the first round picks, but that's no reason to order their tombstone. 

There's a ludicrous amount of negative talk around the Packers wide receivers.

And it's completely misguided.

This group of receivers is gonna be just fine.

First, there's Randall Cobb. Yes, he's past his prime. At the same time, he's a shifty receiver who has a unique connection with the quarterback and that should not be undervalued. He also showed he can still produce. In his last game of the season, he put up nearly 100 yards in the first half before leaving the game with an injury - and that was against a Super Bowl champion defense.

Then there's Allen Lazard. For some reason, there's a lot of people who still don't think highly of him. I don't know why. He took on a role as a full-time starter last year and made the most of his opportunities, scoring a touchdown in one out of every five of his catches. He's a big-bodied target with a great catch radius and his hard to bring down.

Throw in Sammy Watkins for veteran depth on a prove-it contract. Watkins has been limited by injuries (and quarterback play), but, despite missing 12 games over the last 3 years, he still averaged around 40 catches and 500 yards. That's solid production for a role player. Watkins, who was drafted #4 overall, has the skills to be more than just a role player, though. He's still an elite talent when healthy. He may not be healthy every game, but that's the nature of football.

Those are three good veteran players, all with different body types and play styles. That kind of weapon diversity is great for playing matchup ball when you don't want your passing game to run through one receiver.

Then, the Packers traded up to get Christian Watson. I know, I know, he wasn't a 1st round receiver, but he was the first receiver drafted after pick 18. Watson is one of the most physically gifted receivers the Packers ever drafted and has one of the highest ceilings of any receiver in this deep class. The early clips out of camp (albeit without pads) look very promising. If he can pick up the offense, he can add a dynamic element to this offense that they have not had. Adams, Jordy, Jennings - they were all great, but none of them came out of college with the physical talents this kid has.

He wasn't the only receiver the Packers drafted, either. Romeo Doubs has the speed and route running skills to make an immediate impact in this offense. Whereas Watson is an athletic freak who needs a little polish, Doubs may be a bit more pro ready, despite having a lower ceiling. The Packers even took a flyer on Samori Toure - another receiver with good hands and route running ability - at the end of the draft.

And then there's the forgotten man: Amari Rodgers. Yes, his rookie season can accurately be described as abysmal. But there's a reason the Packers traded up on Day 2 to get him last year. At 5'9, 212, he's built like a bowling ball, presenting a different kind of challenge for defenses. History is littered with successful receivers who had rough rookie outings. There's no reason he can't bounce back to become the receiver the Packers hoped he'd be when they drafted him. 

Look at it as a group and what do you see?

A rare combination of youth and experience - a group of physically diverse pass catchers that all have unique strengths.

The Packers have half a dozen wide receivers with a legit chance to make an impact.

Do I think they'll all reach their potential?

No.

But they don't have to.

People get caught up in fantasy stats and miss the fact that a successful NFL passing attack needs weapon diversity more than pinball numbers.

Each of the six top receivers on the depth charge (Cobb, Lazard, Watkins, Watson, Doubs, Rodgers) have a completely different style of play. The Packers can work with that. Depending on what kind of defense they're playing, what the weather conditions are, and a number of other factors, each of them could potentially be the leading receiver.

That's just another great part of about having a coach like Matt LaFleur and a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers. They can have a different #1 receiver each week. This is not an offense that needs a stud receiver to funnel the passing game through (we tried that, it didn't work), this is an offense that needs role players with complementary skills to all do their job.

And that is exactly what the Packers have.

 

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__________________________

Bruce Irons has played, coached, and studied football for decades. Best-selling author of books such as A Fan's Guide To Understanding The NFL Draft, A Fan's Guide To Understanding The NFL Salary Cap, and A Fan's Guide To NFL Free Agency Hits And Misses, Bruce contributes to CheeseHeadTV and PackersForTheWin.com.

Follow Bruce Irons on Twitter at @BruceIronsNFL.

__________________________

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10 points
 

Comments (97)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:07 am

Good morning! Happy Mother's Day! Go PACK Go and Go Mom Go!

>^• ^< and >^••^<. (my kitties Lambeau & Leap) say we will be just fine at WR and as a team....

8 points
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Rarescope's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:10 am

Well why didn’t you say so sooner? How long have the cats known this and why are we just hearing this now? We must have answers man!

2 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:14 am

R-scope, some years ask the questions...other years provide the answers (hopefully). It's not like reading a fortune cookie or your horoscope or your palm being read. I had to look deep into the expelled fur ball this AM and this is what it said...geez, patience grasshopper, patience... :D

3 points
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Rarescope's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:31 am

Trying so hard to remain patient here… so you only inspected the hairballs? Any good feline truthsayer knows that you must also throughly inspect the fecal output, paying special attention to… ok I’ll stop there lol. Oh yeah burpzy, it’s going to be a great season for sure, one for the ages!

2 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:42 am

GOSH R-scope, duhhh...I diluted the fecal matter, added the proper concentration of liquid, centrifuged the heck out of it, burnt it onto a slide and this is what it said. Those ________ must have found my stash! No wonder they were SO relaxed. I will get even and snort THEIR catnip!

1 points
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Packers0808's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:14 am

Loss of Adams will be I bet a blessing in disguise, as many said will force Rodgers to share the load with other receivers!

12 points
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Packers0808's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:14 am

delete

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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:17 am

"share the load"...are you referring to his recent contract Packer0808?

Just funnin, okay I don't mean to bogart the board...will get back to my scrapbooken. Peace! ✌️

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Packers0808's picture

May 08, 2022 at 02:40 pm

I guess his "last" girlfriend didn't like sharing the load either!

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GregC's picture

May 08, 2022 at 10:25 am

I remember when Sterling Sharpe suffered a career-ending injury in 1994, and the Packers' passing game was better after that, with Robert Brooks, Antonio Freeman, and Don Beebe emerging, plus the tight ends. I'm hoping for something like that again.

5 points
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Rebecca's picture

May 09, 2022 at 06:50 am

And if Rodgers gets a season ending injury we’ll be just fine. Year 3 for JorDan LoVe will be spectacular since the first rounder has proven he’s ready.

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Bure9620's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:42 am

Yes, they have enough. As long as the offensive line is healthy they will be fine. I expect Watkins and Lazard to be the base 12 personnel receivers, and split out Aaron Jones when needed. I think Jones is moved around even more this year. Hopefully Amari Rodgers makes a big jump, I am not real confident in that. Bring Watson and Doubs along slowly. It will be interesting to see their snap counts early in the season.

3 points
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NickPerry's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:54 am

"Depending on what kind of defense they're playing, what the weather conditions are, and a number of other factors, each of them could potentially be the leading receiver."

Personally I'm excited about what this offense COULD be. Just as Bruce has pointed out, this is a WR room that has a lot of diversity. Each WR brings something different. I've always like Lazard and Cobby can STILL produce, he just needs to stay healthy. Wouldn't it be something if Watkins stayed healthy ALL season? If you look at his stats the last few years, he's produced UNTIL he gets nicked up.

Call me a Homer but I still believe in Amari Rodgers. Cobb has him under his wing and hopefully he's just been focusing on being a WR in the NFL this offseason. In week 8 last year, Rodgers ran the ball on one of those plays that Tyler Ervin once ran. He gained 11 yards and looked really good doing it. I waited the REST of the season to even see it once more and it NEVER came. Who that was on, MLF or AR12 I don't know. BUT with Adams gone we will FINALLY see this offense ran the in it's most efficient way. In other words, the way it's supposed to be ran.

Doubs can step in and do what MVS did and MORE, I really believe that. He's a decent route runner who catches the deep ball EXTREMELY well. Did we EVER say MVS did anything extremely well? IMO we don't miss a beat there. But it's Watson where this offense is going to really be fun. He's so fast, so athletic, so smart, just get the damn ball to him and let him go.

Lets not forget Aaron Jones and AJ Dillion. BOTH are excellent receivers. Once Hill is back, you have another RB who a excellent receiver. The bottom line is the Packers can be better without one dude catching 110 balls. Lets have 6 or 7 catching 40 or more and see what happens...

12 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 07:10 am

Hope you have a great day Homer. ;)

2 points
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murf7777's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:18 am

Homer:). You made me do it NP……I have to agree, I don’t think we really know what we have in Rodgers yet. BTW, I’m a bit of a homer as well. We should have a very strong OL and with Arod we don’t need to have the top WR group to score a lot of points. Keeping in mind, the strong RB group and Tonyan back we will have a very good group of pass catchers.

2 points
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Johnblood27's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:28 am

BUT with Adams gone we will FINALLY see this offense ran the in it's most efficient way. In other words, the way it's supposed to be ran.

um hummm

same QB.

groundhog day.

shoulda took the picks.

5 points
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 11:16 am

Same QB1. This will be a slingfest. Doubt highly we run more.

On the plus side, I think AR has buy-in with all 3 of the new WRs. Add to that, if Bob Tonyan makes a healthy return to put up anything close to what he did in 2020, wow.

I’ve changed my perceptions of what this could be, namely from the perceived buy-in by AR, and the dynamic talent infusion at that very WR position we need him to buy into 100% for 2022.

Coupled with a true, Top level DEFENSE?

AND, maybe, maybe, a 20 position jump up the rankings on STs? Wouldn’t put it past Rich Bisaccia to pull that off with all the new players added there, and his top-flight coaching/scheming.

What might occur could prove completely transformative, resulting in our ultimate success if we catch some luck on the injury front.

A lot has to go right, but, surprisingly, my friend, I think a lot can go right.

6 points
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MainePackFan's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:56 pm

JB. Perhaps you should root for a different team until we get rid of this bum Rodgers. It will be better for your mental health :)
In the meantime, those of us that accept that the Packers made a decision to continue with Aaron Rodgers, will happily welcome you back when he is gone.

4 points
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Johnblood27's picture

May 08, 2022 at 10:19 pm

I have been a faithful PACKER fan far, far longer than AR has been with the franchise.

He should leave, i'm not going anywhere.

Bring on the jordan love era!!!

0 points
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BirdDogUni's picture

May 08, 2022 at 10:40 pm

Hate to say it Jb, but you're not very faithful if you don't trust the Packers FO to make decisions for the franchise. ; )

1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

May 09, 2022 at 08:13 am

my trust has been tempered since the tom braatz days and now trust must be earned, not given unconditionally.

Wolf earned it.

Sherman destroyed it.

TT restored it - temporarily...

Gutey is doing pretty good so far, im still in the AR trust building phase with the current FO with murph destroying any gains i make with gutey...

2 points
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Bearmeat's picture

May 10, 2022 at 11:29 am

agreed JB. This is why I have not been around much. Not much positive to say. I too expect groundhog day. Wake me up when 12 is gone.

-1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

May 10, 2022 at 04:16 pm

I will do as they say not to do in Boston...

I will poke the Bear... when the time is right!

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egbertsouse's picture

May 08, 2022 at 07:07 am

Ahhhh, spring! When the Packers are undefeated and every UDFA is a HOFer! And all QBs have a DNA transformation and turn into Tom Brady.

I’m calling Roger Goodell to tell him to skip the season and just award the Lombardi trophy to the Packers right now.

6 points
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egbertsouse's picture

May 08, 2022 at 07:07 am

Ahhhh, spring! When the Packers are undefeated and every UDFA is a HOFer! And all QBs have a DNA transformation and turn into Tom Brady.

I’m calling Roger Goodell to tell him to skip the season and just award the Lombardi trophy to the Packers right now.

0 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 07:14 am

Pump the fricken brakes Egbert!!! The local Green Bay area needs the $ infusion that comes with games actually being played... don't spoil it EGBERT, put the phone down please...please. When did you get this so gosh darn positive? Read Awaken the Giant Within by Anthony Robbins? Yep, me too ...👍✌️👌

-1 points
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 02:56 pm

Indeed, Happy Mother’s Day to all the Moms out there!

Allen Lazard has remained one of my favorite WRs since he signed with GB as a UDFA. Was truly great to see him get called into his first big game action by Rodgers 3 years ago, and all he’s done since is deliver. Always great having a tough, reliable enforcer at WR.

67%. 72%. 67%. Those are great Catch% numbers - especially for ANY WR in his first 3 years of NFL work.

24. 23. 28. The guy gets crucial 1Ds.

3. 3. 8. He’s ascending as a red zone target.

13.3 YPR 9.1 YPT on about 35-40 receptions per year. His outside blocking is superb. At 6-5 227, he’s turned himself into a reliable, tenacious baller in LaFleur’s system.

Look for Lazard to be the early beneficiary as Aaron Rodgers’ true “best friend,” - underneath all the coverage - while opposing Ds focus on all the new hot cars flying around out there. I really do think Lazard might go off for 1000 yds this season, and he’s a lot of WR for opposing defense’s #3, #4 or #5 DBs to handle without Safety help (which will get drawn away by Watson, Doubs, etc.).

Cobb? He’s STILL a very reliable 1D machine.

Watkins? He has a chance, but will need a good TC to stick on this Packers team. I always liked him though, and he’d provide another great veteran presence in that Packers locker room. I’m hoping like crazy he makes it to helping carry another Lombardi Trophy off the plane in Green Bay.

I am convinced Watson, Doubs & Toure are going to go off. Amari might make an impact. But Lazard should quietly pile up some big numbers this season in mismatches.

In 2009 DD had 1061 yds and Greg Jennings’s had 1113 yds receiving.

In 2010 Jennings had 1265 yds, DD had 561 yds, James Jones had 679 yds and Jordy Nelson 582 yds receiving.

Maybe it gets spread around more, like in 2010. The kids will get their touches, and one or two could easily go off for 1000 yds as rookies.

Something tells me Lazard will be the one with the biggest mismatches early in 2022, catching all kinds of underneath stuff with Rodgers, the savvy vet looking to exploit.

That could easily become a runaway train as the season progresses.

Does anybody see us running the ball more in 2022…? Me either. Rodgers is going to light this up like a Christmas tree.

Packers swapped TAE for TRE: Watson, Doubs & Toure?

Think about THIS: MVS had 52 Deep Targets in 2021. Doubt those Deep Targets to one player decreases in 2022. With Davonte gone, I could imagine TWO WRs get at least 52…

6 points
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murf7777's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:43 am

Pump the brakes GG, I don’t think there will be any WR with over 1,000 yds, much less a couple. I do agree with you on rushing attempts. I think they will be similar as last year, just the ball will be spread out more. Keeping in mind, I see a lot of passes going to our RB’s as well.

My prediction on yards:

Lazards - 700. (55-700-8)
Watson - 700. (40-700-5)
Watkins - 500
Tonyan - 500. (Depending if he comes back early)
Cobb - 450
Jones - 450.
Rodgers 400
Dillion 350
Others - 500

Of course, Cobb and Watkins are hard to predict based on how many games they play.

That puts us around 4500 yards passing.

4 points
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:47 am

I don’t pump brakes.

I’m telling you, forget our RBs becoming big parts of our receiving game, but for a handful of great mismatch opportunities in 2022. AR will pick his spots.

Having just added Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs and Samori Toure? Each one a legit deep threat? Forget where they were selected, and look at what they offer. All 3 with the capability, AND EXPERIENCE to pile in gigantic YPC numbers.

Hell, I like Toure better than Olave as a pure Slot WR. He’s got a toughness that can’t be matched by Olave. Plus, he’s able to offer more in JET concepts.

Aaron Rodgers is going to become rejuvenated as a Top passer in the NFL. That leopard is NOT changing his spots. This season should prove to be a massive air assault, and now AR has legit, dynamic young WRs en mass to use at will.

Packers will be smart, finding ways to stash/save Watkins & Cobb on PUP or IR for a late season playoff run. Not sold Watkins survives the cut down to 53… nor Amari Rodgers for that matter. I support the kid immensely and want him to succeed, but I just get this massive, undeniable “YEEESH,” feeling.

“ALL GAS. NO FUCKING BRAKE.” becomes a thing, - for reals - in 2022.

Especially with THIS PACKERS DEFENSE giving us more scoring opportunities. Opposing defenses will probably have a tough time keeping up. Think about that, and Aaron Rodgers being a more rejuvenated passer of the football…

We’ll see. That’s just my take. You’re certainly entitled to your own, my friend! Differing opinions are good.

Packers will be peeling out, spraying gravel in the faces of the rest of the NFL. Book it.

“Vo-la-ré… oh oh a oh!”

LOL

(ps. Everything you listed, murf, is probably what we - should - see. I just doubt, highly, that we will see that).

4 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:20 am

GG, that pep talk was straight out of either Gladiator or Brave Heart or BOTH! Me likey....

1 points
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:46 am

Just callin’ it as I see it. We’re gonna be hearing bells ringing like this is a game of Pachinko.

Seems most logical, with AR being AR, having 3 new (really über capable) toys, and his penchant for slinging it all over the yard.

2 points
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MainePackFan's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:33 pm

Tip of the cap greengold, you have accurately described our 2022 Packers. Don't let any of these naysayers tell you different :)

2 points
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murf7777's picture

May 08, 2022 at 10:38 am

GG...I'm predicting more passing yards than last year so maybe you didn't take my post correctly. I just don't think there will be a 1,000 yd receiving by any one pass catcher. I also don't think it is a big deal if there is or isn't.

I see this offense without a #1 Dominate pass catcher. Is that bad? Absolutely not, I actually think it will make our Offense more diverse and better.

Time will tell, but I don't think our thoughts are too far off and yes, all gas and no braking allowed!!

1 points
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 12:49 pm

LOL, MURF!

There’s absolutely NOTHING WRONG with what you’ve said. It certainly could go that way.

I’m just guessing it goes this other way…

Christian Watson is coming in with 20.1 YPR. 14 TDs.
Romeo Doubs 14.8 YPR. 26 TDs.
Samori Toure 19.1 YPR. 26 TDs. (20 at Montana, 6 at Nebraska).

Both Watson and Doubs are amongst the draft’s leaders in deep ball receptions, Doubs scoring even higher than Watson there, holding the #2 ranking. Toure set the Big 10 on fire with FIVE 100 yd receiving games in 2020 at Nebraska. He set school records as a Junior at Montana prior to transferring to Nebraska.

Toure broke Randy Moss’ 1996 FCS Playoff Record for Receiving Yards in a Game with 303 yds, in 2019.

THESE AREN’T CHUMPS. Gutekunst added 3 really freaking good WRs in Watson, Doubs & Toure.

I really do think Aaron Rodgers is going to have a field day lighting other teams on fire with these 3. Also thinking AR will be a different player than we’ve seen in GB with MULTIPLE LEGIT WEAPONS. I think he’ll be lighter, easier, and he’s going to be having WAY MORE FUN playing football for GB. That’s what I mean when I say, “transformative,” and “rejuvenating.”

Now, add in how many more times the Packers D will be handing the ball back to our O…

Holy freaking balls, man.

I’ll put cans of Pabst up on at least one rookie WR going over 1000 yds this season. No probs.

2 points
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LLCHESTY's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:16 pm

You're unabashed Packer optimism is sweet. It reminds me of a Packer fan tweet I saw on Twitter where somebody thought Watson is going to be a combo of DK Metcalf and Julio Jones. That was so funny I forwarded it to all my Packer friends.

1 points
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greengold's picture

May 09, 2022 at 10:37 am

It’s funny, right?

LLCHESTY, I really didn’t want the Packers to draft Watson, for months. That last week before the draft, though, I circled back to look more closely, removing my previous bias due to level of competition, realizing his team at NDSU was an overt power rushing team. That squared with his minute 43 receptions, as their #1 WR.

I only started to get it then, connecting -again, errant dots-, thinking he’s a bigger MVS who appears to play within his abilities far more comfortably. Thought I could see AR connecting with him more readily. MVS has nothing on this kid.

Then, after we took him, all the stuff about his Dad being a former player, teaching him all the routes through his entire route tree, etc. etc…. Wow. CW is far more advanced a WR than I ever knew, and I’m quite thrilled Gutekunst traded up to get him.

I don’t care if I’m coming off like a 7 year old on Christmas morning. After studying Watson, Doubs & Toure post draft, considering Aaron Rodgers was likely clued in on all 3 picks, learning of his buy-in with them, to the point he’s likely popping into voluntary OTAs?

That just flips the entire script.

Yeah, game changer. We all know what Aaron is, how he likes to play, and now, he’s got what may prove to be a level of talent unseen in GB at WR since 2010-11.

Yes, I’m stoked, unapologetically.

TEN may be excited about drafting Burks and his 17.1 YPR. We drafted 3 who collectively have a better YPR, and all 3 are far better route runners. It just matches up too perfectly with what AR wants.

Add a vastly improved D & STs?

OK. I’m a 7 year old boy again. Lol

1 points
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Since&#039;61's picture

May 08, 2022 at 11:37 am

murf7777, I like your numbers but I would not be surprised to see either Doubs or Toure make a bigger impact than we're expecting. By the end of TC we'll have a better idea of what these guys can bring. Thanks, Since '61

-1 points
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 12:16 pm

Yep. I’m projecting. When 4-Time MVP Aaron Rodgers is having fun throwing the football, he doesn’t throw it less…

This dude’s going to have a freaking ball, while hopefully being better protected.

1 points
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murf7777's picture

May 08, 2022 at 12:48 pm

That would be a nice bonus!

1 points
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LLCHESTY's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:11 pm

I think Doubs ends up with more yards than either Cobb or Rodgers. Cobb because of health and Rodgers because I'm not sure he takes a big jump this year and beats the dreaded Packer 3rd round curse.

0 points
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mekose5719's picture

May 08, 2022 at 07:13 am

this is cool thing

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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 07:45 am

One of the most insightful bots ever to land at CHTV! Let’s give it up for Mekose…

3 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:01 am

I hear ya GG. Mekose is pulling out all the stops! Hopefully LaF does the same this year... :)

2 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:14 am

And, I get more insight out of Mekose than Egbert! Just kidding bro...see ya this afternoon at Ma's house. No food fights! And, this year...please bring some artisan cheeses...NOT Velveeta. Thanks in advance. ✌️👍

2 points
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Rebecca's picture

May 09, 2022 at 07:05 am

This is a cool thing.

0 points
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Roadrunner23's picture

May 08, 2022 at 07:46 am

I still have high hopes for Amari Rodgers as a slot WR.
1. He’s being mentored by Cobb who has been one of the better slot WR for years.
2. He has the body type to thrive in that role.
3. He was a difference maker at Clemson.
4. He wants to be great and will put in the work to get there.

1 points
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BruceIrons's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:17 am

I'm optimistic, too. I would think by now we would have all learned not to write a player off after an underwhelming rookie season.

4 points
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 12:59 pm

Bruce, I want to be optimistic about Amari. Rather, I’m hopeful. I really, really liked the idea of bringing him here before the draft even kicked off last year.

I just see there was ZERO love connection between he and AR last year, and think Amari probably has the biggest uphill battle in front of him to become a featured weapon in this offense, as things stand today. He’s really going to have to ball out on STs too with all the new talent brought in to compete for his spot.

It’s not a stretch to think Samori Toure & Rico Gafford could easily supplant him on this 53.

This is all going to hinge on who AR feels most comfortable with heading into the 2022 season. I’ll add the Rich Bisaccia factor in here too. If ANYBODY can turn Amari into a solid, reliable PR it is him.

Totally agree with you that Amari could deliver in LaFleur’s offense with a different skill set profile, making for a more diverse WR Room. I’m hopeful that he can make it back to being a prominent offensive weapon. He was that, with legit R2 grades coming in just 1 year ago.

Weird shit can happen when you need to keep an extra S or CB at roster cuts. I think Amari is really in a huge battle for his spot.

I was a huge fan of Amari Rodgers & remain so. I support him turning it around and becoming that impact player he was a Clemson here in Green Bay for years.

We’ll see.

3 points
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murf7777's picture

May 08, 2022 at 12:50 pm

Roadrunner…..all very good points…fingers crossed.

0 points
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HawkPacker's picture

May 08, 2022 at 07:58 am

I would agree Ken to a certain degree that the WR group will be just fine.

The area of concern that I have is inside the red/gold zone. In the past, Devante or Tonyan caught a lot of passes in the red zone to move the sticks or score a touchdown. For the first half of the season, it will be interesting to see who steps up or if the Packers will run more as a lot of us would like to see. This will be area will be different than what we have experienced the last few years.

Also, I still get the feeling that post June 1, Gute will add another WR or TE and will let one of our high CAP players go!

5 points
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:32 am

Hawk, I get it, and we don’t know what Tonyan’s going to bring.

I think Lazard becomes a bigger, more heavily used go-to red zone target in 2022, as does Watson. Tonyan? I think he’ll return healthy to deliver numbers more in line with his 2020 season. Sammy Watkins? Another quality rz target if he can stay healthy. He’s got an incentive laden contract, and won’t be seen as a savior - reducing some pressure/reps. Maybe, just maybe, Sammy makes it through this season healthy. Like Lazard, he won’t be drawing a ton of double coverage - with our new high-speed deep threats.

This could be really good.

Add to that, we’ve got so much breakaway speed with Watson & Doubs, and Toure for that matter, possibly resulting in fewer red zone opps. I mean, these guys can and will light it up from deep.

I just see that playing out well for the Packers.

2 points
2
0
Minniman's picture

May 08, 2022 at 04:46 pm

It may well even be after the start of the season.

I read an interesting article that (potentially correctly) pointed out that of the likely veteran WR FA’s that are available, ALL have injury concerns, so would preferably be kept on light duties until the business end of the season anyway.

I can’t quite remember if it was Leatherhead or Coldworld that I posted this, but the lack of a deep threat in that 49ers loss was one of the main reasons why the Packers O couldn’t conjur anything (and AR’s TaeVision….). As Bruce pointed out, the Packers addressed the versatility problem from late last year in this draft.

We’ll see how it pans out, but FWIW I’m happy with the strategy.

0 points
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HawkPacker's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:07 pm

Me too Minnie. I think some teams will be releasing players post June 1 and hopefully the packers will swoop in and pick up someone.

1 points
1
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scoonie_penn's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:14 am

IMO the biggest issue GB will face at WR is the inevitable injuries Cobb and Watkins will sustain that will limit their games played to roughly 10 each. Maybe GB will get lucky and both will get hurt earlier in the season and be back by the playoffs. More than likely one will end up getting hurt later and miss the playoffs or have a very limited role during that time. Both have had laundry list of injuries and neither has played a full season in several years. On the plus side, it may force GB to play the rookies and force feed ARod into building a rapport with one/some of the youngsters. I just hope I don't see a bunch of unforced drops but again based on their track record, the rookies are prone to drops and inconsistent hands. BTW Amari Rodgers isn't even an afterthought for most fans. I hope he can show something this season... but he was a 3rd RD pick ...

1 points
2
1
PeteK's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:09 am

Yes, injuries not talent is the big question mark with Cobb and Watkins. Amari had such great numbers in college playing against top talent, so I was surprised that he looked tentative last season. He might not have the quickness to become a good slot in the pros.

3 points
3
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BruceIrons's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:29 am

Injuries are always a problem, which is why depth is so important.

My hope is that the veterans can stay healthy while the young guys get eased into the offense and can step in when injuries occur.

0 points
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GregC's picture

May 08, 2022 at 10:39 am

For most of last season, I was happily eating crow about Cobb, as he was much better than I expected him to be. Then he got hurt, and when he finally came back for the playoff game, he was a non-factor. So we got about what we expected from Cobb after all. And now he'll be one year older. Ditto for Watkins, although he is intriguing because he could be a game-changer. Worth rolling the dice on, in my opinion.

I think it will be a free-for-all with the WRs this year, with the most experienced guys being injury-prone, mixed in with young players who should be improving as the season goes on. The passing game will evolve, hopefully in a good way but not necessarily. Aaron Rodgers' patience will be tested. There's no telling how it will all turn out. I'm hoping an improved defense, and dare we hope, improved special teams, will give the offense a cushion for the inevitable misfires that will occur.

3 points
3
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 01:18 pm

… puts on Ted Nugent’s FREE FOR ALL. The whole freaking album.

Meatloaf was my cousin, Kevin’s neighbor in NY on 83rd & Central Park West… oh, man. The stories & memories. He sang Lead vocals on DOG EAT DOG and a bunch of others on that album. Haven’t hit this whole thing in years.

I owe you one, Greg. Lol.

-1 points
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1
Leatherhead's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:38 pm

Big Meat Loaf fan. "Bat Out Of Hell" is one of my favorites to listen to on the elliptical.

0 points
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BirdDogUni's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:27 pm

I'm a huge meatloaf fan. I make a mean venison balsamic meatloaf that is to die for...

Two out of three ain't bad either.

0 points
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stockholder's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:23 am

Fine? I'm going to say for How Long? After Adams and MVS got the big bucks. I'm all for the "Baptism by Fire". Throw to them. The Longer they sit. The colder they get. There is No option years on these Wrs. In fact; next year. There will be another change. So forget the development. They can't sit behind anyone. Do you really believe; that Lazard, Cobb, or Watkins will be here next year? The Wrs position has become," The Rich and Famous." The packers are in cap hell. Others have to be paid first. Bring them along slowly never helped Amari last year. And it won't help the new trio. The veterans must be pushed! The need for speed is obvious. No fear! Play them. SCREW THE DEVELOPMENT.

-5 points
5
10
Johnblood27's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:37 am

follow your advice and the team will really piss off your stepson AR.

he gonna want vets first and rookies when Love is playing - like never!

hey, how about this - just start Love and the kids and lets really GO FOR IT!!!

0 points
4
4
PatrickGB's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:44 am

Stock, I agree, play one game at a time. Use the best players. Put them in the best positions to win. Coach and scheme them to succeed. Team first and leave it all out on the field. Worry about now and not next year.

7 points
7
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stockholder's picture

May 08, 2022 at 11:10 am

correct.

2 points
2
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jannes bjornson's picture

May 08, 2022 at 05:08 pm

They just need a TE. Get Deguara the ball on the move and Davis from Inline. I do not know why Lewis is still onboard?

1 points
2
1
LLCHESTY's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:21 pm

Because he's still one of the better blocking TEs in the league?

1 points
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WestWi_Packfan's picture

May 08, 2022 at 08:53 am

I agree that the rookies should get more reps then usual, especially Watson but it usually takes about 3 years before rookies are on the same page as Rogers. Cobb will probably retire after the season but I still think Lazard might be worth keeping around if he has a decent year. Watkins could also get another 1 year contract if he performs well enough. Although Adams is an elite WR, at least part of that is on Rogers and I doubt Davante would ever be considered as good as he is, if it wasn't AR throwing him the ball. So whomever Aaron develops into his next main target he will look just as good maybe even better because Davante didn't have elite speed like Watson does.

-2 points
0
2
golfpacker1's picture

May 08, 2022 at 12:04 pm

I have an idea. How about at this stage of his career, Rodgers should work harder than usual to get on the same page with his new wide receivers. Aaron only has so many shots at super bowls left and maybe from now on he should adjust his game and standards to make the TEAM better. Way more important than individual awards. Aaron can build trust by accepting these new players as teammates and tools to win super bowls.

2 points
2
0
jannes bjornson's picture

May 08, 2022 at 05:15 pm

Remember, when Adams , Cobb were the greenhorns, there were bonafide Stars at the WR position. They were lower on the depth chart, but still brought along. Sharpe didn't start slow. Use the talent. As we were reminded the past 11 years, the Packer Way has some Flaws.

0 points
0
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Ferrari-Driver's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:53 am

Questions about how quickly can Watson learn the Packer playbook...

In Watson's favor is the result of his IQ Wonderlic Test Score which is the highest among current Packer players. Watson scored a 38 on the test which is three points higher than Aaron Rodgers score of 35.

What does that mean? It means that Watson should have the ability to absorb the Packers Playbook quicker than most. The score of 20 represents an average score. The Wonderlic score is multiplied by 5 which provides the average IQ score of people which is 100.

However, having a high or low score on the Wonderlic Test doesn't always equate to how the individual football player will perform on the field...But in Watson's case, it should help him learn the playbook faster than most.

7 points
7
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 10:11 am

Ferrari - add in he’s the son of a former player, and has been trained by his Dad to run routes his entire life, and Christian Watson knowing his assignments should be a huge PLUS on the ledger.

4 points
4
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Ferrari-Driver's picture

May 08, 2022 at 11:50 am

Good point!

Over the years I also noticed that players whose dad have coached and coached their son's in high school have been among the smarter and assignment sure players. They seem to get the maximum out of their natural ability. One that comes to mind is John McKay Jr. who played for USC and received passes from Pat Haden. He later played for his dad who was the head coach at Tampa Bay. He was only a 16th round draft choice and was not as gifted as a great many wide receivers of the day were, but he seemed to carry out assignments very well and was willing to run over the middle and make the difficult catches.

3 points
3
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greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 12:13 pm

Yeah man. WRs Michael Pittman Jr. and Van Jefferson more recently…

0 points
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pantz_bURp's picture

May 08, 2022 at 11:27 am

Interesting, I read that if you add both Wonderlic scores from our two 1st Rd picks together, they would be a point short of the average Wonderlic score this year? (I hope their football IQ is high).

-1 points
1
2
LLCHESTY's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:25 pm

Are you getting his score from McGinn? He's been caught more than once getting unreliable info on those scores. I hope he did this year because he reported both Walker and Wyatt had scores under 10. If true that's troubling for Walker, off ball LBs have a lot on their plate.

1 points
1
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Qoojo's picture

May 08, 2022 at 10:36 am

Don't expect much from any rookie WR/TE. The best I hope for is that Watson and Doubs will stretch the field. Otherwise, it's the AR trust zone and adjusting to the pro game. Amari spent the past year learning, so he should have a bigger year. Without Adams, AR is forced to spread the ball around. So that is going in the rookies favor.

1 points
2
1
greengold's picture

May 08, 2022 at 11:31 am

Qoojo, you’re totally right. As fans, we should not expect 1000 yd receiving seasons from any of the new WRs

The thing is, I think Aaron Rodgers will, because the talent appears to be there. I think he’ll easily make it happen too.

If Aaron really does work furiously with Watson, Doubs & Toure/Rodgers to get them up to speed with his own expectations & style of play… LOOK OUT!

This could go down as the greatest talent infusion at WR from a single NFL Draft in Packers history. This 2022 draft was truly that deep in solid players there.

No fluff here. Dynamic talents, all three.

0 points
0
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Tedlyflyfisher's picture

May 08, 2022 at 11:03 am

Holy cow, Bruce. You should be in advertising. Talk about hype!

I’d say it’s way too early to say the WR corp is going to be okay. It’s great to be optimistic and excited about this group, but please, let’s wait until they see some real action.

0 points
2
2
golfpacker1's picture

May 08, 2022 at 11:57 am

For those of you that don't know this I am about to educate you about Allen Lazard. #1 i was absolutely shocked when he was not drafted. Then I was depressed when he did not sign as UDFA with the Packers. Even though not the fastest WR I thought at worst he could make a great TE. Oh well the NFL RULES about how the player at each postion should look or MEASURE or he can't possibly play pro football. On to the educating part. Allen Lazard was a GREAT, not good WR in college @ Iowa State. Just some of his stats were 241 RECEPTIONS for 3360 YARDS and 26 TDS!!! He was a great college WR and all he needed was for an NFL team to open its eyes and throw to him. I was thrilled when we signed him and just hoped the DIVA would trust him and throw to him. The rest of Lazards story is ahead of him but he was destined to be really good in the NFL. There you go Pack fans now your eyes are open to Allen Lazard.

5 points
6
1
jannes bjornson's picture

May 08, 2022 at 05:25 pm

Preach it ! I followed him at Iowa State and said three pick , minimum. That just goes to show the Personnel departments are not all they are cut up to be. Some scouts work the cocktail lounge harder than the film room. If they pull in a gem or advocate for their guy, they may be given the short-shift. Typical ego games get in the way of reality. Case Study: The Raider front office with Gruden living on XO and Mayock plucking feathers from ceramic chickens.

1 points
1
0
NoNonsense's picture

May 08, 2022 at 01:53 pm

I just can't for the life of me believe that Rodgers and LaFleur won't take full advantage of a weapon like Watson. He targeted MVS 73 times as a rookie and that was with Devante around.

If you take the closest physical comparison of Watson which is probably Chase Claypool and look at his rookie numbers you will see just what Watsons rookie year should look like.

109 targets with 62 receptions for 873 yrds and 9 TDs. 10 rushes for 16 yrds and 2 TDs.

Thats not a unrealistic stat line for our rookie phenom as long as he can stay healthy. In fact I think he can do better than that with an extra game and the back to back MVP throwing the passes. Big Ben was coming off that elbow injury in 2020 and may not have been full strength.

I actually think LaFleur and Rodgers should go back and study that season to see just how to best use Watson using Claypool as a model. Those Jet sweeps and end arounds near the goalline were a thing of beauty.

Overall I do beleive this receiving corps is more than sufficient especially when you consider the RBs and TEs who will contribute. I can't wait to see it all unfold, should be a very fun season to watch.

4 points
5
1
LLCHESTY's picture

May 08, 2022 at 06:33 pm

Claypool was playing a very different level of competition than Watson was. You watch some video of Watson and a lot of times he looks like a Senior playing against Freshmen in high school.

People keep saying how much more agile he is than MVS but MVS had a faster short shuttle and 3-cone than Watson did. I'll be happy if his rookie season is as good as MVS' was, if he catches a few more TDs that would be great too.

0 points
1
1
BirdDogUni's picture

May 08, 2022 at 09:55 pm

I hate to say it LLC, but Watson is a football player, and there are going to be a lot of happy Packer fans when MaLF and AR find ways to get him the ball and get him involved.

I'm not going to go as far as predicting he'll be Ja'Mar Chase this year, but, it wouldn't surprise me if he were.

I will go as far as saying I believe if Christian Watson stays healthy, he'll have more yards and TDs in his first two years than MVS had in four years. (And I was an MVS advocate.) Watson is so much more natural and fluid with the ball in his hands it isn't even funny. Only time will tell, but fully believe the Watson train will be unstoppable once it's on the track and the fire is stoked.

2 points
2
0
LLCHESTY's picture

May 09, 2022 at 02:37 am

I think he has more upside than MVS had but you can't deny watching video of him the competition left something to be desired. He had one reverse where I was impressed with the sharpness of his cuts but there were a couple of others where he rounded them off quite a bit, reminded me of MVS trying them on the pro. In Watson's case they worked because there wasn't anybody within 5 yards of him and he had a chance to get North and South and go. Even if he isn't good at those type of plays it doesn't mean he won't be a good WR, you don't want Metcalf running a ton of reverses and Jets.

0 points
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Vforrest's picture

May 08, 2022 at 04:41 pm

Does anybody think MLF wants the number one passing offense in the league throwing the ball 69% of the time? So what’s all the hand wringing about…they’ll throw the ball to keep the defense honest or take a shot a couple times a game. It’s going to be about defense and complimentary football this year.

0 points
1
1
LLCHESTY's picture

May 09, 2022 at 02:40 am

The Packers were 18th in rushing last year and 20th in avg per rush. You think that's magically going to change?

1 points
1
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Vforrest's picture

May 09, 2022 at 10:02 am

In order to win they’ll go to their strength.

0 points
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

May 09, 2022 at 05:13 am

I see things differently. I don't see a committee with many members. I am thinking a big three with Cobb chipping in by playing some slot. Doubs get a chance to show what he can do, either by injury or LaFleur manufactures some time for him.

Lazard: 750 snaps +
Watkins: 650 snaps +
Watson: 650 snaps
Cobb: 475 snaps
Doubs: 200 snaps
Winfree: 110 snaps
Toure/Amari: 90

Lewis: 450 snaps
Tonyan: 325 snaps
Deguara: 275 snaps
Davis: 275 snaps
Dafney: 125 snaps

This would be an uptick in TE usage, but not a huge one.

133 passes to RBs in 2019.
110 passes to RBs in 2020.
106 passes to RBs in 2021.

I am looking for the passes to RBs to surpass 2019 levels. GB was in the eighties and nineties under MM, with an uptick to 116 in 2016 (56 to Ty Montgomery, which I am counting as all RB, FYI). I think Dillon should go from 37 targets to 60 plus. [Dillon usage is a little too predictable for my taste: he got touches on 47% of his snaps and 39.3% carries, whereas Jones got touches on 40.8% of his snaps and ran the ball on 29.6% of his snaps.]

1 points
2
1
LambeauPlain's picture

May 09, 2022 at 08:27 am

Will the Packers run more this year? With Adams gone, Rodgers will likely be limited in changing run to pass plays pre-snap. Normally he would give a quick glance or count change and Adams knew exactly what to do. More patience needed for his new WRs.

And it depends who is on the OL. Last year there was so much shuffling on the OL, I believe it limited run blocking schemes and also for for Jets, motions and 12, and even 22, personnel play groups.

I am very excited for the 3 rookie WRs. Watson should be able to pick up the playbook fairly quickly. He is very intelligent and was a college honor student with a mentor former NFL Dad. Doubs is kind of like Jennings coming out...both played in weaker conferences but both ran a ton of routes and caught a ton of balls in passing offenses. " The Samurai" has all the tools...and his only year at Nebraska as a senior showcased his WR skills.

Throw in the vets who will lead by example...and yeah, I think the WR group could be surprisingly effective.

3 points
3
0
greengold's picture

May 09, 2022 at 08:52 am

Really great stuff, LP! I couldn’t agree more with all of that.

I think this young group rejuvenates AR by mid season, and then, it’s all over. Rodgers is going to love playing football like we haven’t seen since Jordy/Jennings/Jones.

Doubting we run more with so much to throw to.

0 points
0
0
hhsbaseball's picture

May 09, 2022 at 10:09 am

And I think Winfree is ready to make a huge jump this season. The guy can really play. He just needs a little more familiarity with the offense so he can play with confidence. He might catch 30 to 40 passes this season.

1 points
1
0
hhsbaseball's picture

May 09, 2022 at 10:09 am

12 will find a way to make each marginal receiver better

0 points
0
0
Packerlifer's picture

May 10, 2022 at 10:43 am

The Packers can't and shouldn't try to replace Davante Adams. But they are going to have to find ways to account for his productivity in their offense. In 2021 Adams had 123 receptions, gained 1553 yds. and scored 11 td's.

That amounts to 34.3% of the team's passing yards and 27.8% of their total yards, 30.5% of their receptions, 28.2% of td receptions and, in combination with the also departed MVS, 35.8% of the Packers' total td passes. Adams was targeted 169 times or 29.6% of all attempts.

Obviously the team this season is going to have to have guys step up and step in and spread the ball around to cover those numbers to stay on track. Adams' totals were all two and three times what any one else did in the passing game in '21. But that heavy reliance and focus cost them dearly in the playoff loss.

Some of the slack could be taken up by vets already on the roster. Allen Lazard was only targeted 60 times last season but he hauled in 40 (66% catch rate) and had 8 td's; a rate of almost one every 5 receptions. More targets, more receptions and a few more td's could fill in the gap decently.

Randall Cobb on only 39 targets caught 28 and had 5 td's. Depending on what he has left in him an expanded role could also help.

Sammy Watkins isn't the washed-up wash-out some think. He could be worth at least 50 receptions and at his career average of 14.5 ypc that adds up to 730 yds., almost half what Adams had last year. If he can haul in 6-8 td's that won't make the 11 caught by Davante in '21 look so absent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSdurrzKhXw

Of course, besides this there's the possibilities that exist with Amari Rodgers, the 3 rookie draft picks and maybe 2 or 3 others from the undrafted list that could produce this next season and increasing the role of the tight ends and backs in the passing game over the past with Adams on the team.

After the special teams the over reliance on Davante Adams was probably the next biggest factor in the Packers losing the playoff last January. In the 8 years that Davante was with us the Packers lost 4 NFC Championship Games and never even reached the Super Bowl.

Breaking it down over the course of the season Davante averaged just over 7 receptions and 97 yds. per game and an 8.9% td catch rate per reception. Lazard by comparison had 20% and Cobb 12.8% on theirs. It seems the Packers should be able to come up with enough guys capable of producing at a comparable rate, even without the individual superstar.

It's going to depend on the dedication of the receivers to employ their abilities to the best but also on the coaches and the quarterback to figure out what the receivers do well and put them in position to do it well to keep the Packers among the elite offenses and efficient passing teams in the league.

3 points
3
0
BirdDogUni's picture

May 09, 2022 at 03:41 pm

So basically, we need our WR/TE/RBs to step up and produce. We need our QB to find the open man and get the ball out quick. We need MaLF and the offensive coaches to step up and scheme guys open. And, we need our STs not to suck.

Got it.

; P

1 points
1
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Thegreatreynoldo's picture

May 10, 2022 at 11:04 am

Davante caught 84 passes for first downs. He was the "move the chains" guy. I remember Jordy running those comeback routes and digging balls out that were thrown at his shins or lower with regularity. I think that was an overlooked facet of Jordy's game.

LaFleur is going to have to find that move the chains performer, especially situations in which the ball comes out fast.

3 points
3
0
greengold's picture

May 12, 2022 at 02:00 pm

Agree, TGR, and I really do think Aaron Rodgers will have an abundance of those guys this season. Truly.

All of Watson, Doubs & Toure have those capabilities you speak of, maybe in different forms, but capable nonetheless. Amari Rodgers? Wouldn’t be surprised if he grabbed Aaron’s trust early, and from there? Sky’s the limit. I’m sure Sammy Watkins has some tricks in his bag. Then, there’s true QB’s best friends in Cobb & Lazard.

Beauty this season, is we have way more than just the one guy for that.

84 1Ds… hot DAMN, if that isn’t a BIG NUMBER!

0 points
0
0
GreenBaySmacker's picture

May 18, 2022 at 03:42 am

The 2014 NFL Draft:

Pick #4-Sammy Watkins-Buffalo Bills
Pick #53-Davante Adams-Green Bay Packers

I think it will be interesting to see what Sammy Watkins could have been if drafted to the right situation as Davante Adam's was. Adam's is great no doubt. Would he have been though if drafted by the Bill's at that point in time? Or would the production of those 2 be flip-flopped? I feel like Watkins will be motivated to prove himself and show he's capable of #1WR type production. Not saying he'll be as good as Adam's was for GB, just that I feel he'll be a sleeper this year and will out perform most people's expectations of him. I really like all 3 rookie WRs and I'm excited to see how well they'll do with A-Rodg. and with the heavy competition at the position. Not sure about Amari Rodgers, haven't seen enough of him though he seems slower than your typical slot guy. Toure may be better suited for slot than him. Lazard may be odd man out. Pretty sure he's the only RFA that hasn't signed yet. Maybe there's something to that we'll see soon I'm sure. Cobb is Cobb and he'll be huge in the success of the youngsters with the offense. I agree 100% with Bruce. The WR position will be fine. Mostly because of the future HOFer slinging the rock with precision.

0 points
0
0