Packers Need to add a Veteran Wide Receiver
The Packers have made a couple of free-agent splashes, now it's time to go bargain hunting -- for a wide receiver.
The Green Bay Packers have been active in free agency, bringing aboard Jimmy Graham and Muhammad Wilkerson, while also jettisoning Jordy Nelson.
Don’t get me wrong, the signing of Graham is exciting. He’s a unique player that will be used properly in Green Bay (he never really was in Seattle) and even at 31 years old, he can be a huge difference maker. His 10 touchdowns last season are evidence of that.
Yet, Graham alone can’t fill the void left by Nelson. Certainly, Jordy was aging and didn’t look like the same player down the stretch a year ago. He still could have been more successful with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, but you just can’t pay three wide receivers more than $10 million a year.
Even the modest two-year, $15 million deal that Nelson got from Oakland probably would have been too much, especially with the pursuit of Kyle Fuller. I haven’t seen an exact number for the Packers cap figure, but they should have around $15-20 million to play with, about $10 when you consider money for draft picks.
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That’s not a lot of money, however, the Packers still have lots of needs to fill. Corner is the biggest one and now that the Bears matched the deal for Fuller, Green Bay will need to look at some other options. It could also use an edge rusher, maybe a right guard and another wide receiver.
With Geronimo Allison and Michael Clark both in the fold, the Packers aren’t in terrible shape without Nelson. Allison caught 23 passes for 253 yards last season and seems to have a decent connection with Aaron Rodgers.
Clark only caught four for 41, but he has big upside and is 6-6. He wowed throughout training camp and is a guy the Packers certainly want to see more. Another option is using Ty Montgomery as a pass catcher. He can still run the ball on occasion, but he might need to contribute in the slot or outside, he’s 6-2, 220 after all and can run. Trevor Davis also will have more chances to develop.
Those are the in-house options. The draft is another strong possibility. Green Bay has three of the first 76 picks, as well as two in the fourth round and three in the fifth round. Early Day 3 is when I’d expect them to draft a pass catcher, but an earlier choice is always possible.
At some point in the draft, even in the sixth or seventh round, Green Bay will draft a receiver. But is adding another young player to the roster the best way to replace Nelson’s production?
It’s going to need to be a collective effort led by Davante Adams, Cobb and Graham. The tight end essentially takes over as a top-3 target, with whoever earns the other receiver job being the No. 4.
If you think of it that way, Allison is capable of being a solid fourth receiver. So is Clark, in my opinion. Yet, a veteran will help too and with Rodgers under center, attracting receivers shouldn’t be too difficult.
One veteran free agent that might be perfect for Green Bay is Mike Wallace. The former Steeler, Dolphin, Viking and Raven will be 32 in August, but has had two solid years in a row in Baltimore. He averaged 62 receptions, 882 receiving yards and four touchdowns the last two years. He caught 52 balls for over 800 yards last season.
Wallace is known as a deep threat and could thrive with Rodgers. He also seems like a good complement to Cobb and Adams. Also, he would be fairly cheap. Another cheap veteran could be Eric Decker, who has bounced around after signing a big deal with the Jets in 2014. He barely averaged more than 10 yards a reception last season but could be a solid possession guy.
Those are two ideas, the other that’s really intriguing is Jordan Matthews. The former Eagle and Bill is just 25 years old. But unknown to most, he has 2,955 and 20 touchdown receptions in just four NFL seasons.
With Philly in 2014, 2015 and 2016, he had 872, 997 and 804 receiving yards. Last year, he only hauled in 25 passes for 282 yards and a touchdown with the Bills, which is why his market is so slow.
Matthews is scheduled to visit the Cardinals, but if he doesn’t sign there, Green Bay should absolutely give him a call. He would probably cost $5-7 million a year, but he would be worth it.
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— Cheesehead TV (@cheeseheadtv) March 15, 2018
Terrelle Pryor and Jeremy Maclin are two others Green Bay should check into. Maclin has missed four games in each of the last two seasons, but he had 556 and 440 yards respectively. Those numbers aren’t great, but if healthy and with Rodgers at quarterback, a revival is possible.
It’s hard to know what happened with Pryor in Washington, but he had more than 1,000 yards just two years ago in Cleveland of all places, so why not try a one-year, prove it deal similar to the one they did to Wilkerson.
Big-name free agents are great, but the steals you can find are even better. For years, the Packers refused to take any chances in free agency. The Patriots sign guys all the time for 2-3 million bucks. Sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn’t, but their teams have been better for it.
Ted Thompson always avoided those deals. He chose instead, to rely on rookies, young players and undrafted free agents. That would be great if players never got hurt, but they do, seemingly more in Green Bay than anywhere else.
The Packers need another reliable wide receiver, a guy who can play on the outside and catch 50-60 passes. He doesn’t have to be a superstar, but he needs to command some respect.
The guys above would all be good fits, hopefully, the Packers take a shot on at least one.
__________________________
Chris is a sports journalist from Montana and has been blogging about the Packers since 2011. Chris has been a staff writer for CheeseheadTV since 2017 and looks forward to the day when Aaron Rodgers wins his second Super Bowl. Follow him @thepackersguru
Comments (141)
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 11:08 am
This is as important as finding a CB. Adams is not a guy who is going to perform well without a legit threat opposite him. Last year Jordy still commanded respect. Need more of the same this season. 12 doesn't handle working with anyone who is just learning very well.
Oz40
March 18, 2018 at 01:48 pm
I think Jimmy Graham is the complement to Devante Adams. Don’t we still have Lance Kendricks under contract. He’s more of your typical tight end type.
DD
March 18, 2018 at 03:43 pm
Kendricks has proven to be non productive. Trade him now and all the current TE's we have. Graham stays, all others out. Take a TE in draft!
Turophile
March 18, 2018 at 04:12 pm
Not as important as finding a CB imo.
It would still be a decent acquisition though. I'm anticipating a WR in the first three rounds of this draft. A vet could ease his transition in the first year or so.
I also expect a CB in the first three rounds (to go with a vet FA). the same applies to the vet CB, helping the transition of the draft pick.
Of course i am assuming both draft picks pan out, they may not. If Randall and Rollins had worked out well, the level of need would be different.
NickPerry
March 18, 2018 at 11:30 am
How funny, I was thinking Pryor would probably be a decent option this morning. Somehow he had the year he did in Cleveland and then literally died in Washington. Who is he really. I've suggested Wallace on this site for quite sometime. Sooner or later his long speed will be gone but he could still win outside on deep balls in Baltimore pretty consistent so I'd bet he has at least one more year.
I liked Matthews coming out quite a bit, but he's not going to get deep for you. I think the same could be said for Decker as far as getting deep but he has great hands.
If I was the Packers I'd try and get Pryor, Wallace, or Decker first but you almost HAVE to go with the cheapest option.
There's still that CB position they need to address too...
EdsLaces
March 18, 2018 at 05:45 pm
Pryor would be sweet .
Since'61
March 18, 2018 at 12:06 pm
If we sign a FA CB we could pick a breakout WR at 14. Plus add depth in later rounds. Or if we sign an FA WR take a CB at 14 and look to sign a CB who is cut after the draft or during TC. I would rather sign a vet CB if still possible. Thanks, Since ‘61
OrganLeroy
March 18, 2018 at 12:14 pm
Fans are the only ones that think we need a FA WR, I don't, we need CB help. All our WR's are under contract for 2018 and we'll draft a couple maybe even 2nd round. Deangelo Yancey is a 5th round pick who was a big play receiver at Purdue, we hardly need a FA. Over reaction.
TheVOR
March 18, 2018 at 02:14 pm
Michael Clark intrigues me, he's a big target! 6'6" x 217, great looking prospect, in fact in my mind he surpassed Allison. Allison blew it with the reefer thing, and then never equaled his 2016 potential. I thought he dropped way off. That said, Clark? OMG, if they can get him making a jump this season? Pity we lost Eddie Mac's son Max McCaffery who any and every QB raved about all preseason last year. I liked that kid, he has the bloodlines, he'll probably do well with the 49ers. We have two solid vet receivers at 1 & 2 in Davante, and Cobb, we just need a strong 3rd, and I have a hunch that guy's on the roster, Finally, count on GB drafting more WR help in the draft. I hope they draft for lightning speed at the position, and someone who can actually return punts, instead of pretend to return punts like Trevor Davis. Man we need to chew our leg off on Davis already, no SKILLS!
rtuck80
March 18, 2018 at 02:39 pm
Totally agree turn this comment. salary limitations, deep draft class and all we really need is someone to get down the field in a hurry. free agent wr makes little sense to me.
NickPerry
March 19, 2018 at 04:45 am
"Fans are the only ones that think we need a FA WR, I don't"
LOL...Well Leroy your A FAN and probably the ONLY one I've heard suggest the Packers don't need help at WR. Even if Cobb was to have a season close to 2014 the Packers wouldn't throw money at him again next season in FA which leaves just Adams.
Yancey is a JAG. He was over drafted in the 5th round, probably could have gotten him as an UDFA or a late 7th. Clark has shown NOTHING. Hey I hope he's the next great WR in the NFL but so far he's caught 4 passes and had a play in the end zone last season that should have been a TD and he developed a horrible case of alligator arms.
Not only do the Packers need to draft a WR, they should draft TWO. I'd love to see them grab James Washington. I think the comparisons to Greg Jennings are a great comparison, hopefully he doesn't have a sister like Jennings looking for her 15 minutes of fame.
DJ Moore of Maryland is an interesting prospect but I think he'll be over-drafted as well. Sutton of SMU is one of my draft crushes this year. He's had excellent production in college and at over 6'3" 218 Lbs he's had scores like a smaller WR in the 10 & 20 yard splits, 20 yard shuttle, and 3 cone drill.
Instead of moving back for once I'd like to see the Packers move up as often as possible this draft. The Packers have several needs. If the BPA is a WR in the 1st round TAKE HIM. If it's a CB, Edge, or even one of the top O-Linemen like Nelson or McGlinchey take them. Thompson drafted for need the last several drafts and it's totally screwed this team. WR is just one of those positions ignored by Thompson the last 3 drafts.
Tundraboy
March 19, 2018 at 09:08 am
I'm with you NP and since 61 as well. We have Rodgers for Christ's sake. We need wide receivers and Adams alone is not going to do it. When are we going to learn. Would be great to find a Lofton, but we need to at least start looking for a star #1 and get a vet for this year until we do.
And yes that is true for CB as well.
jeremyjjbrown
March 18, 2018 at 01:42 pm
Me too. I don't think anything else they can do is going to matter unless the add some quality and experience to that cornerback room.
jeremyjjbrown
March 18, 2018 at 03:10 pm
Haha, looks like I have a follower who comes around adding a dislike to every comment I make. Even the completely innocuous ones.
jeremyjjbrown
March 18, 2018 at 06:55 pm
Here's another for you to downvote. Just making sure you get lots of opportunities feel like a big person.
ChrisPeterson
March 18, 2018 at 12:06 pm
Yeah I think they need two corners. Go get Scandrick and Gaines the guy from the Bills or Rodgers Comartie, Morris Claiborne of the Jets or another vet. Those two guys and Wallace or Decker shouldn't cost too much. I wouldn't think. You can still draft guys at those positions. Then compete, if the rookie is better, you can cut he vet. But at least take a chance on some if those guys. TT wouldn't, hopefully Gutekunst will.
stockholder
March 18, 2018 at 01:58 pm
If you think they need two corners, than king is a bust. 3 cbs are being mocked. House is still my bet for success. Your only grabbing at straws with a FA CB now. A CB is not going to lead this team. And neither will another Edge Rusher. The Leader has to be a SS or ILB. Mathews and perry are not going to be that person. The winds of change have to put us a step closer to that!
ChrisPeterson
March 19, 2018 at 03:13 pm
King is one starter. The Packers basically start three corners, all NFL teams basically do. Are you going to count on finding two starting corners in the draft? Green Bay has tried that before. 2004 and 2015. Neither time it worked. The Eagles signed Patrick Robinson last year and he was a low level free agent, guess what, he started in the Super Bowl. Was maybe their best cover guy. He's still out there. Sure, bring in rookies, let them compete against a veteran who has actually covered in the NFL. If the vets aren't good enough, cut them. It's not rocket science. The Pats have done it for years. I have no clue what you are talking about in terms of a leader. To stop teams in the NFL, you have to pressure the quarterback and cover guys. Corners and edge rushers are the most important positions by far and it's not close. Why do you think they get so much money?
4thand1
March 18, 2018 at 12:08 pm
Oh the elephant in the room that still haunts us, CB. CB's are at a premium in the NFL and with our cap, a really good one is almost out of reach. AR will make any receiver look good. Remember, Wallace had Flacco throwing him the ball, the most over rated QB in football IMO. But every team needs a WR to stretch the field or beat one on one coverage. A TE that can command a lot of attention opens things up too. This is the second year we are trying it, hopefully it works. Actually the 3rd with Cook. We may being doing west coast ball control and now we have a really good red zone target.
dobber
March 18, 2018 at 02:12 pm
"AR will make any receiver look good. "
Then why are we so unhappy with Cobb's production?
Oppy
March 18, 2018 at 04:06 pm
Exactly, Dobber..
Because Cobb being wide open, waving his hand frantically, still doesn't make the QB throw it to him. Much less any of they younger guys not named Jordy or Adams.
I am wondering if after self scout it was decided one of the 'side benefits' of cutting Jordy was that it would help force Rodgers to start spreading the ball around a little bit. .
4thand1
March 18, 2018 at 04:17 pm
Cobb has made his share of great plays with AR.
Oppy
March 18, 2018 at 08:13 pm
It's been a hot minute, though
OrganLeroy
March 18, 2018 at 04:36 pm
Because most fans think they have the answers..but they don't!
Tundraboy
March 19, 2018 at 09:57 am
Unless your an expert fan of course.
worztik
March 18, 2018 at 12:12 pm
I’m in with Pryor or Mathews but, not Maclin, Decker or Wallace. Keep in mind that we are rebuilding and those three are too old and used and abused! Why wait until the 6th or 7th round to draft a WR? We have ample young receivers on the roster that are better than any that we could find that late in the draft. We need to be doing some trades up and getting better quality players overall! Quality over quantity has always been my way of thinking, just the opposite of TT! That’s my 2 “sense” worth, except to ask why the writers are mentioning the Louisville QB? Why in the world would we want Lamar Jackson in the city by the Bay of Green Water? Just askin’...
CheesyTex
March 18, 2018 at 12:26 pm
He looks a lot like Terrelle Pryor, another college QB with size, speed, and great athleticism.
Rather than draft Jackson to fail at QB and convert to WR, why not just sign Pryor?
As before, IMO Pryor will be a monster with #12 throwing to him.
dobber
March 18, 2018 at 01:12 pm
Jackson? Jackson's only about 6'2", 210. Pryor is huge...listed at 6'6", 240 at the combine, but have to believe he's dropped some pounds when he became a WR...he doesn't look that heavy anymore. But Pryor is worth kicking the tires on, yes.
Can't afford to have pick #14 become a position conversion project over the course of 4 years. He's gotta be a hit, at whatever position they end up choosing.
OrganLeroy
March 18, 2018 at 04:38 pm
Pryor IS NOT 6'6"! Look it up..it doesn't take much effort to find and post facts!
dobber
March 18, 2018 at 04:52 pm
I stand corrected. I don't know which player I was looking at that 6'6" stuck in my head.
http://draftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=84064&draftyear=2011&ge...
240 at the draft is accurate, though.
IN EDIT: I knew I'd seen it somewhere...here it is.
pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PryoTe00.…
Must be those Russian bots getting us again.
CheesyTex
March 18, 2018 at 05:27 pm
Nice.
Thegreatreynoldo
March 19, 2018 at 01:58 am
6' 4.4" will do.
Bert
March 18, 2018 at 12:52 pm
I agree about the "quality over quantity" statement. TT had the theory that the more bullets he fired the more chances he had of hitting the bulls eye. I think he should have improved his aim and used fewer bullets actually.
dobber
March 18, 2018 at 02:16 pm
"I think he should have improved his aim"
If you're talking about fewer bullets, I would argue that you're actually suggesting he move closer to the target (higher in the draft)...and yet we still complain about his myriad misses in the top 3 rounds. You can't tell me HE thought he was a lousy drafter.
worztik
March 18, 2018 at 02:46 pm
Nope DOB. TT thought he was the be all end all as far as GM’s go!!! Kinda like McCarthy’s comment about being a very successful football coach! MM should be on a one year “prove it deal” as some others... ;~€)
Minniman
March 19, 2018 at 01:38 am
It's tricky. I'm loathe to jump on the exclusive TT criticism bandwagon, especially when in part there were players not being used appropriately (especially defensively).
His ability to draft O-lineman is a credit to him, however I wonder if he became too focused on "uncovering late round gems" than taking the obvious early...... and I'm sure everyone can insert their own "draft crush" who is lighting it up for another team here as evidence.
I will be happier if Gute whittles down those 12 picks this year to 5-7 earlier round ones
HankScorpio
March 19, 2018 at 06:32 am
Given the nature of the draft, bigger is nearly always better. Whittling the picks down to 5-7 is a good way to ensure no more than 2-4 productive players are added. Picking 12 is a much better way to find 6 guys that can play. Of course, Gute will need to execute the selections better than TT did of late. But that's true whether he adds a small draft class or bigger one. Given the concerns about depth at most positions, I'd much rather go with the bigger class.
dobber
March 19, 2018 at 07:10 am
Some people don't remember Mike Sherman...
HankScorpio
March 19, 2018 at 07:52 am
They don't remember Ron Wolf, either.
Mark Chmura, Mark Brunell, Doug Evans, Dorsey Levens, Adam Timmerman, Marco Rivera, Keith McKenzie, Matt Hasselbeck, Donald Driver, KGB and Mark Tauscher were among the guys Wolf drafted in 5-7 during his 9 drafts. That's a whole lot of talent that the Packers simply haven't been adding under TT of late. Gute needs to bridge at least some of the gap between Wolf and TT in this area.
Minniman
March 19, 2018 at 05:55 pm
Thanks, some thought provoking responses that have stimulated some more questions to put back to the community:
Accepting here that draft-and-develop is the risk that teams MUST take in order to remain viable, as the cap system is designed to redistribute performers - my hypothetical question is just how do GB best use their abundance of draft picks to "reload" and take advantage of a once-in-a-generational player at the premier position
Do GB trade picks for performers at positions of need then in order to bolster some dwindling ranks (CB/WR) - ala NE?
Also, just how much benefit do GB really get from these late round gems, given that GB carries the MAJOR speculative risk in drafting these late rounders anyway, to then endure their developmental years, only to see them hit the FA stage at the time they actually become productive.
Finally, have GB been picking wrong, or merely using players wrong. I read an interesting analysis of Josh Jones earlier this year where the author reviews some of those cringe-worthy plays of his last season attributing them to how he was used, rather than how he should have been used.
https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/2018/2/9/16995576/packers-2017-additi...
jh9
March 18, 2018 at 12:14 pm
Terrelle Pryor is a freak. He's 6'4" 240 lbs. and ran 4.32.
If I'm BG, I'm doing my homework on this guy.
Bearmeat
March 18, 2018 at 12:31 pm
Agreed. They need an outside WR with speed. Pryor would be my first call, then Wallace.
But let's not fool ourselves: CB is THE need on the team right now. Gute MUST get a FA CB.
jh9
March 18, 2018 at 12:42 pm
Not that any of us have any say in the matter, but PackfanNY posted on another thread this article: http://www.nj.com/eagles/index.ssf/2018/03/nfl_rumors_would_the_eagles_t...
I think Ronald Darby is an excellent suggestion for a CB. He checks all the boxes physically and athletically. And, he shut down Julio Jones.
(Any CB that can shut down Julio Jones can play on my time anytime.)
Again, if I'm BG I'm doing my homework on this guy.
Bearmeat
March 18, 2018 at 12:58 pm
Sending a 4th to PHI for Darby would be a dream scenario.
jh9
March 18, 2018 at 01:16 pm
I tried to fix my typo, but the CHTV template won't allow me to. What I mean't to say: (Any CB who can shut down Julio Jones can play on my team anytime.)
Tundraboy
March 18, 2018 at 02:03 pm
Couldn't hit like fast enough. Totally agree.
worztik
March 18, 2018 at 02:56 pm
Bear, Then why didn’t we bring him in first instead of letting him interview in Seattle first? I think if we’re serious about a player, we bring him in, check him out physically, and, having done our due diligence as to fit organizationally, we don’t let him leave town without a signed contract in hand! The agent should be able to fill in the offers to the player so let’s just finalize and move on! We should know before a player visit what the contract parameters are so it should not be a surprise. That’s what I would call getting aggressive!!
HankScorpio
March 19, 2018 at 08:35 am
"Then why didn’t we bring him in first instead of letting him interview in Seattle first? "
It's called "free" agency for a reason. The player is free to do as he wishes. The Packers can ask to be the first visit. They cannot dictate it. The Packers are not in a position to "let" any player do anything. The player and his agent are in control of that.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 02:36 pm
Pryor, while gifted, is a known head case. That guy turned down 4 for 30 from Cleveland betting he could get more. Of course, he lost that bet.
Terrelle doesn't fit the profile of a guy we'd look at to catch balls from 12. Can't see them ditching Damarious and then adding a guy who is more questionable than he was to fit with Aaron.
He has the size and speed we're looking for for sure. He's just not a fit with the Packers, imo. On paper, I'm a huge TP guy. Really looking at him as to fit is a different story.
jh9
March 18, 2018 at 03:02 pm
Good to know. That's why due diligence is so important to the player acquisition process.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 03:33 pm
jh...Here's some commentary from his former college and NFL teammate, Brian Hartline:
“So I’m very apprehensive as a Cleveland Browns guy to give out a contract. Listen, you had one year. You’re a flash in the pan. You’re trying to tell me with a guy that had suspect personality characteristics, I’m going to go ahead and hand you a bunch of money but you’re going to work harder? Uh, I think I’m going to bet against that if I’m a betting man.”
“If I’m building a team, what is [Pryor]? Is he my No. 1? God, I hope not because let’s put it this way: For me, I want a guy day in and day out I know what I’m getting. You don’t know what you’re going to get. You don’t know who’s going to show up. You don’t know if he’s going to get in trouble. You don’t know if he’s going to smart off. I need stability. That’s so more important to me. I need a guy that runs routes. I need stability. I need constant production. Is he a No. 2? OK, yeah. I mean maybe. He kind of disappeared the last couple weeks.”
CheesyTex
March 18, 2018 at 05:30 pm
Ditto!
worztik
March 18, 2018 at 03:02 pm
John, You’re a big “Toilet Paper” Guy... me too!!!
worztik
March 18, 2018 at 03:05 pm
Now I’m going to watch the Brewers!!!
Handsback
March 18, 2018 at 04:54 pm
Janis has size, speed, and experience in Green Bay's system. Doesn't make him a #3WR.
Bure9620
March 18, 2018 at 12:15 pm
This CB draft class is deeper than previous years, actually guys that are nearly NFL ready. Carlton Davis, Anthony Avverett, Oliver, several guys that could play boundary in year one,l and fit the RW measurments. I think the Packers will taget one, corner, and a WR in rounds 2 or 3 in either order.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 12:16 pm
The options at FA vet WR are as dismal as they are at CB. The org had to really really really believe Jordy was shot to dump him as they did. You have to almost believe they felt Jimmy was the answer for the hole left by Jordy even though Jimmy is listed as a TE.
I'm really starting to believe they view Davante and Jimmy as a 1a/1b scenario. If they feel they have two big guns at WR, as Jimmy really is one, and have Cobb WR3 for the slot, they have to feel 1-3 is pretty strong. We might be looking at this as needing a WR2, where they might be looking at it as only needing a WR4 and Geronislow can fill that role, or Clark, Davis, etc. Jimmy is no long term fix so if they view him as a co-equal with Davante giving us a great 1-2 punch they have to prepare for his departure by adding another 1a/1b type via the draft so that rook can be a vet by the time Jimmy departs.
A lot is riding on Jimmy G.
CheesyTex
March 18, 2018 at 12:33 pm
Good take. Graham is not a classic tight end, and the Packers do not have one. How they fill TE this season will tell us a lot about plans to use Jimmy.
fthisJack
March 18, 2018 at 07:46 pm
this is my 3 round draft.....
1. Derwin James S big fast leader type. can play CB.
2. DJ Moore WR can stretch the field. runs great routes. run after the catch. PR.
3. Mike Gisecki TE big fast athletic. JG successor.
stockholder
March 19, 2018 at 06:12 am
Gisecki may go first rd. I had him second to the packers over WR. But they can't draft their CB and signed Graham. I. Thomas is the best you can hope for in rd 4. Just to many other needs a CB, and Wr, since Nelson left. They also won't have Cobb next year. So Wr, CB all the way. I keep coming up with CB WR WR Thomas Te.
dobber
March 19, 2018 at 07:10 am
I don't see the signing of Graham preventing the Packers from drafting a TE that they really like...especially if said TE can block his weight and run.
Rossonero
March 18, 2018 at 12:57 pm
We may need a WR, but based on Gutekunst's recent comments, his priority is CB (which makes sense).
My hope is we get Tramon Williams, re-sign Davon House and Bashaud Breeland. There's just not much left as far as CBs.
But spend what little money we have on a WR? The price would have to be right, and there's a chance it could be for Wallace or Maclin (I like Maclin more).
I keep getting the feeling that the Packers will take a WR in the 2nd round though, rather than sign one. We've had so much success finding WRs there.
Lare
March 18, 2018 at 02:02 pm
Good article on Packers Wire about what's still available as far as CB's. Sounds like Cockrell and Desir would be good additions, decent size and could be signed fairly reasonable.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 02:44 pm
If Brian tried to do what he already tried doing there is no way he could be good with adding somebody who is left out there in FA. He was looking for a quality vet starting CB. One who could be the CB1. There is no CB1 type left in FA...nobody close. That's why the embarrassing offer sheet. Desperation to find that type of player as he's not there available in FA anymore.
What does that leave him with? Trading or drafting. OR...waiting for post June 1st cuts or final cutdown cuts and that's risky having a guy miss your entire offseason program, so I'd rule that one out. June 1st cut, maybe. Draft is fluid...he can't know who might be there at 14, so he might lose there. He'll be more inclined to reach at 14 if the guy he really wants is gone. Trading is the best way to secure what he wants at the position. It puts him in control not beholden to what happens in the draft where reaching is a decent possibility.
Lare
March 18, 2018 at 03:55 pm
I have to believe Pettine is providing input on the CBs available. Their lack of concern may be an indication that they're going to be playing press coverage at the LOS. In that case, they can get by with a Davon House or a Tramon Williams as speed isn't as important.
Also could be that they feel that some of the CBs currently on the roster will be productive in Pettine's scheme. I'm not convinced from what I've seen so far, but they've seen a lot more of them than I have.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 04:04 pm
Agree they're involving Pettine to some degree in our it takes a village new communication approach.
What lack of concern are you referring to, Lare? They've tried being in "every conversation"...made inquiry on Sherman, Trumaine Johnson, Rashaan Melvin etc. if reports are to be believed and then sent out a bizarre offer sheet for a guy they had no hope of ever landing. I think the concern is over the top high. Brian said they were going to be looking at CB heavily. I believe they have and came up empty. Didn't want to pay those prices, and I can't really blame him. I do fault him for not being in on Peters stronger but they were in the midst of purging an attitude issue but they're good with Ha Ha's attitude. Sherman signed for next to nothing but we don't know if he would've ever considered a place like Green Bay. Melvin was a reasonable deal. So was Honey Badger.
I believe the interest is still very very high and there's a mini panic inside 1265. No idea what his plan is now... add some d listers or, just wait for the draft to play out and go from there, or trade prior to the draft?
Lare
March 18, 2018 at 04:22 pm
I take most media reports with a grain of salt. Too many of them are leaked to the media by agents and others with something to gain. The only player we know they've officially pursued is Fuller, and even then it appeared to be a half-hearted attempt.
For a team that said they were going to be aggressive going after free agent CB's they don't seem to be too aggressive. Heck, even their supposed main target (Melvin) signed for a reasonable contract with the Raiders.
fthisJack
March 18, 2018 at 07:54 pm
i'd like to see them pursue a trade for Cobb. get rid of that salary for a good CB would be pretty much a wash. then put Monty in the slot.
JohnnyLogan
March 18, 2018 at 12:52 pm
The idea was supposed to be to get faster. Jimmy doesn't solve that problem. Adams is quick in and out of breaks but not particularly a deep threat that opens up things inside for Cobb. We need speed on the edge to allow us to work Jimmy and Cobb... and Adams over the middle. Pryor would be my choice. He'd at least have to be accounted for.
Bearmeat
March 18, 2018 at 12:58 pm
Wallace would be cheaper. I'd be thrilled with either one. Whoever it is, we need that dude to run 7 and 9 routes. :)
Oppy
March 18, 2018 at 04:41 pm
I know fans don't want to hear this, but the Packers have speed at WR on the roster.. Even if fans don't think those guys can play.
We may see Trevor Davis (4.42) getting more snaps at WR. They may resign Jeff Janis (4.42) , and he may get more snaps. DeAngelo Yancy's (low 40 time was 4.42, high 4.50), scouting report reads "build up, deep speed. With long routes will get over the top of defenses." Michael Clark (4.53) is no burner, but at 6'6" with leaping high point ability, he could still command the respect of the CB and even over the top safety help if he continues to develop. (granted, he's really raw).
None of these guys are 4.3 guys, but they're all faster than the average NFL WR (4.55). We've seen how Davis and Janis' 4.42 speed translates to the field when they get moving; they're about as fast as anyone on the field. I'm not ready to say we don't have the necessary speed to take the top off the defense yet. Have to see if these guys can play.
dobber
March 19, 2018 at 09:18 am
I wouldn't be all that surprised to see Jeff Janis back in GB primarily for his ST ability. He'll come pretty cheaply. Maybe he gets a break at WR with Philbin around, maybe not. I've been a guy who has always thought they could get more out of him than they have. I would argue that the issue is that they use him as an outside WR, but the returns so far indicate that he's really more of a slot player...whatever the case, he's a 'get him the ball on the move and let him run' kind of guy. Someone will get that out of him eventually.
dobber
March 18, 2018 at 01:16 pm
I've been in on Jordan Matthews and Delvin Breaux (CB) for a bit now. Terrelle Pryor is intriguing, but his inability to be productive in Washington with Cousins is troubling. Matthews isn't a prototypical burner, as NP points out above, but he's not slow either. He can get downfield and the Packers can benefit from the fact that he had a lousy downfield passer in Tyrod Taylor throwing to him in Buffalo last year. Breaux should come fairly inexpensively at this point on a one-year prove-it deal.
While it shouldn't matter to Gutekunst as he conducts business, keep in mind that he let an aging vet who was a fan favorite go last week. Signing someone else's aging vet who isn't notably better won't go well for BGs popularity around Wisconsin.
stockholder
March 18, 2018 at 01:36 pm
Damn right they need another Wr. Damn right ADAMS is not the Answer. Damn right they'll pay for Nelson being let go. The problem is nobody out there right now is better than Nelson. The draft is the answer here. They can't afford better. Not without cutting the Wrs position more. They have to draft CBs and Wrs. They'll over-pay anybody for a bandaid now. House is affordable and knows the system. Thats the best we can hope for now. Who is the leader on the defense? Who is going to help A-Rod. Mediocrity does not get you to the playoffs. TTs FA are this teams downfall. Practice squad hopefuls. The heart break is as close as the next injury. In 2010 we had defensive leaders. Bishop, Woodson, Collins, etc. Raji and mathews made the defense strong. @#14 you must find a leader for the defense. A leader people! Next they must draft Super speed for the offense. They got Graham for the Red Zone. They over-paid Adams for the Red Zone. Cobb can work free for the Red Zone. They need to draft Offense for the Future. Starters!!!
Oppy
March 18, 2018 at 08:30 pm
Adams was better than Nelson last year. Not just talking about production, but watching the player on the field.
Yeah, I know. Nobody believes it.
I'm good with that.
Spock
March 19, 2018 at 09:31 am
Oppy, Since I qualify as a 'nobody' your second sentence is wrong (lol) as I do believe you and I saw the same thing. Loved Jordy but he was s-l-o-w last year and Adams was the only receiver that actually didn't lose said production with Hundley, his footwork is phenomenal. I watched Adams fake very good CB's right out of their jockstraps and leave them looking like GB's DB's i.e. "What just happened?". :) (A shout out "Sorry" to dobber. This is my first smiley face since you teased about that last week!)
dobber
March 19, 2018 at 09:36 am
No problem! :)
SpudRapids
March 19, 2018 at 03:04 pm
Stockholder has hated on Adams since he had the injury riddled year when he didn't produce with Nelson out. Adams is simply amazing off the line and his overall body control is special. He is a dynamic player
SpudRapids
March 19, 2018 at 03:04 pm
Stockholder has hated on Adams since he had the injury riddled year when he didn't produce with Nelson out. Adams is simply amazing off the line and his overall body control is special. He is a dynamic player
4thand1
March 18, 2018 at 01:40 pm
If Ridley is there .......................take him. Impact players like him should fill the void , we have enough experience with what we have now at WR.
fthisJack
March 18, 2018 at 07:59 pm
i'd rather have DJ Moore in the second. draft D in the first.....James or Smith or Ward.
stockholder
March 18, 2018 at 08:41 pm
I agree a 100 %.
Oz40
March 18, 2018 at 01:41 pm
Why does everybody seem to think that Gute is the bad guy and Jordy is the good guy when they actually asked him to take a pay cut for the team and stay and he refused. I don’t care about so called “insulting offer”. It’s a business, not personal Sonny.
Oppy
March 19, 2018 at 12:28 pm
The same people who want to axe a player after a down year, are the same guys who want to fire the entire coaching staff after a down year, are the same guys who, oddly enough, tend to talk about how long-term fan favorite players "earned" the right to stay as long as they want and decide for themselves how and when they leave/retire from the Packers.
I don't understand it myself. There's just a slice of Packers fans that have a need to believe the front office folks and coaching staff are inherently nasty, disrespectful, incompetent people, and that the good players they like somehow transcend their position and earn the right to run the team.
I do often wonder how many of these fans bought #4 Jets and Vikings unis back in 2008 (and 09)
Thegreatreynoldo
March 19, 2018 at 02:36 am
I do often wonder how many of these fans bought #4 Jets and Vikings unis back in 2006
Oppy
March 19, 2018 at 12:26 pm
oops
:)
fixed
Colin_C
March 18, 2018 at 02:03 pm
I disagree. We NEED a veteran CB. We could use another veteran WR. I'm all for drafting a WR in the first three rounds, and maybe even signing a guy like Pryor. But to compare the WR depth situation to that of the CB room is absurd.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 02:12 pm
It's not a comparison of CB depth and WR depth, at least for me...it's a comparison of trying to find one CB1 or 2 and one WR1or 2. The spot opposite Davante at WR is filled by.... who? Cobb can't play outside. Jimmy is listed as a TE. Who is the WR2? Right now it's Geronimo. Having Geronimo Allison as your WR2 is as bad as whomever we'd trot out right now as our CB2. King is a question as a CB in general much less as a CB1 or CB2 but he's penciled as our CB1 due to draft status and DR trade.
Geronimo vs. Quentin Rollins, Mike Hawkins, Lenzy Pipkins, Donatello Brown, Herb Waters, Demetri Goodson? I don't see CB2 as any better than our WR2 options with Allison being the leading candidate. Throw in the fact that Aaron doesn't play defense, and he needs a guy he can really trust there who can also ball out and help Adams, I'd say WR2 is equally important if not more due to the Aaron factor and the effect on WR1's production.
Davante Adams, Geronimo Allison, Randall Cobb, Michael Clark, Trevor Davis, DeAngelo Yancey, Jake Kumerow, Colby Pearson vs. Kevin King, Quentin Rollins, Mike Hawkins, Lenzy Pipkins, Donatello Brown, Herb Waters, Josh Hawkins. Take Adams and Cobb out of the WR corps and take King and Rollins out of the CB group and it's a dead heat as to which is worse after the top 2, at least to me.
In any case, both positions need upgrading from where they presently stand.
Colin_C
March 18, 2018 at 02:30 pm
I understand what you're saying, but here's how I look at it. Sure, take out your top two guys at each group, and they're not that different. But, you then have to compare those top two guys. Adams and Cobb are both veterans who have consistently produced. They're proven talent that you can rely on. King and Rollins are still inexperienced and/or have struggled, and neither has proven they belong yet. For the record, I think King will, but as of now he's still relatively unknown.
I actually think the Rodgers factor makes the WR situation better. You can have guys like Geronimo who aren't that great, but their play is evaluated by superior quarterback play. It would be comparable on defense if every week they faced Jay Cutler. One player making others punch above their weight.
Agree with that last sentence. Both positions need help, and it looks like the draft will be the primary source for it. I just think a rookie WR has a better shot to come in and start at WR #2 than for a rookie cornerback to do the same thing.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 03:21 pm
I agree with you on Top 2...that's why I left them off. :)
We see Rodgers factor differently. He hated Janis because he didn't get it. Throwing a rookie out there with growing pains is going to cause issues. Yes, Rodgers can make Geronimo look better, but at the end of the day, he's still Geronimo Allison and there's only so much you can do with him. The talent base starting point for Aaron to make look better needs to start a lot higher than it starts with Geronimo.
On the last point, I think a rookie CB is much more likely to have success than WR. I've looked at data that suggests CB is safer in Round 1 than WR but it doesn't speak to what position is most likely to give you best bang for the buck in rookie season...but, I still prefer Sutton!
Colin_C
March 18, 2018 at 03:59 pm
Guess we'll just have to agree to disagree on this topic :-)
I'm actually hoping though that we don't go WR or CB in round 1, but get Tremaine Edmunds. He's got a lot of room for improvement, but I think he's worth the gamble. My ideal day one and two draft (without trades) would look like:
Rd 1 - Tremaine Edmunds
Rd 2 - Carlton Davis
Rd 3 - Anthony Miller
I think these guys would really help build for the future, but could also play now if needed. Btw, if you're interested, here's a breakdown on Edmunds that I thought was very well done:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oTjfbxn3Ng
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 04:14 pm
I smiled big when I saw your pick in the 3rd round. :) I still want Sutton at 14.
Edmunds is a high risk play. He has those measurables I believe Brian loves. We're going to count on Winston Moss to do something with him? That play they showed where he's completely confused like a camera man back in the old OU Sooner wishbone days was terrifying. He had no clue where the ball was. He might be young but instincts aren't something you develop they're something you have or don't. You can learn mechanics to be successful but it's always preferred for it to be instinctive. He is a huge upside guy that we never seemed to take under Ted. Will be very curious to see if Brian is riskier there or if he's a floor guy like Ted.
I put my name on the list for draft tickets down here. I hope to be there and announce Anthony Miller as our pick in Round 3. If that should happen, I'm giving you a shout out Drew Pearson style. :)
Colin_C
March 18, 2018 at 04:24 pm
Haha, sounds good! Are you in TX then? I also threw my name in the raffle hat for tickets, though it's a long bus ride from Madison. Ah, what the heck. It's worth it! Fingers crossed!
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 05:08 pm
Yes, sir. I'm 43 miles from the stadium.
If you win, and I win, would love to shake your hand there at the site of our last SB conquest.
Hope you win! Colin_C you are now on the clock! BTW, Colin C? Is C for Cowherd? :)
Colin_C
March 18, 2018 at 05:36 pm
Absolutely. Let's make it happen!
Haha, nope. Just happens to be the initial of my last name.
OrganLeroy
March 18, 2018 at 06:10 pm
I still don't understand how any fans would even consider that we might take a WR @ 14, it's insane, won't happen and NOBODY @ WR is worth that high of a pick.
Oppy
March 18, 2018 at 08:43 pm
Geronimo Allison > Ruvell Martin
Andrew Lloyd Peth
March 18, 2018 at 03:46 pm
Cut Cobb to save money, elevate Clark and Davis, grab Pryor on a prove-it deal, and draft a speedster.
I like Cobb and want him to stay, but our cap is a colossal mess thanks to Ted. Time for painful, adult decisions to fix it.
Bert
March 18, 2018 at 09:35 pm
Ugh. I'm not so sure about elevating either Clark or Davis at this point. Neither has shown enough to be counted on for anything but bench depth.
Oz40
March 18, 2018 at 01:50 pm
Isn’t Davis this big time speed guy? Is this about year three for him so you should really be starting to see some advances
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 02:19 pm
If you go back and read draft bios and the like on Davis, he was thought to be very questionable as an NFL WR. A priority FA type not draftable as a WR. He's a build up speed guy...not sudden. He is basically a returner trying to help at WR not the other way around. I don't trust Davis to ever be a player for us. He's done about what Janis did his first two seasons. Davis is 8-94-1...Janis was 4-95-0 over their first two seasons. Janis did have the big playoff game at Arizona.
Lphill
March 18, 2018 at 02:08 pm
I just want the best defensive player available at 14 , not receiver . We can get a receiver in the second or third rounds.
stockholder
March 18, 2018 at 03:31 pm
Ward CB won't be there.@14. Edmunds will go before smith. @14 R. Smith at ILB. Best sack and cover LB in the draft. Perfect fit. Ryans done as the packers get a Leader!! #2 J. Jackson Cb He's Falling and Packers go up and get a {CB. Regardless.} If the packers don't get a CB early they'll be blocked out on trades. Hence No WR in the 2nd round. #3 Gallop Wr #4 Ian Thomas TE #4 comp W. Teller G #5 D. Fountain WR #5 Comp C Gossett G Thats my best guess at this time. If the packers want to trade someone. Ryan may be that person.
OrganLeroy
March 18, 2018 at 06:06 pm
I actually agree with some of your assessments. I'm fine with Jackson in a trade up into the top of the 2nd, bottom of the 1st, Vander Esch or Landry @ 14 love Gallupp in the 3rd & Ian Thomas in the 4th, OL in the 5th (not sure about Teller) Absolutely believe Fountain will be a star. I'd be very happy with that scenario. As far as picking Guards, remember, the Packers prefer OLineman that played Tackle in college because they offer more versatility. As long as some of the Guards being projected can play tackle we'll be fine.
stockholder
March 18, 2018 at 08:36 pm
Know exactly what your saying about Tackle and Guards. My feeling is the guards are better this year. Even some centers playing guard. Lang and Sitton were the leaders on the line. Their gone and need to be replaced. I like Landry, but to many questions of size/speed/off blocks, for me. And Vandr Essh as a trade up. Perfect size! just Not as the @14 pick. If they trade down great picks. I looked at 4 players the packers should take for defense @14. Vea - Pass now. didn't work out at pro day. Edmunds, Youngest fastest OLB in years. Would be better than Landry. Needs some work, but wow. Size and edge gives him the nod over R smith. Smith is the best player the packers could take. Smaller in height than they like. But they'll never get a chance to get a faster,all down ILB for years. A leader and best rated Lb in the nation. Better than Dieon Jones. ATl. Ward. Love ward, will be gone. And my last player is James. Love the playmaking ability. Is he Polamalu - No. I like mike Hughes. if they miss Landry and Jackson.
Qoojo
March 18, 2018 at 02:45 pm
I don't see vet WR FA as a need for the packers. Plus, they already signed one, Graham. Mike Wallace would be interesting though.
Firstdown
March 18, 2018 at 03:40 pm
Davis is a tremendous receiver. Compare him (5th round pick) against the first five receivers taken in the 2016 draft for best hands-
Drop percentage: Davis 1.85% vs Shepard 2.5%, Doctson 4.55%, Treadwell 5%, Thomas 4.65%, and Coleman 8%. Davis clearly has the best hands, but maybe he's slow and plodding. How elusive is he? Can he break tackles? Is he fast? One way to help determine that is by checking the Yards After Catch stats.
Surprise, Davis led all power five conferences in 2015 with 9.6 yards YAC. Coleman had 7.1, Treadwell 6.0, Shepard 5.1, Thomas 4.5 and Doctson 3.4.
We have a pretty good lineup with Adams, Cobb, Graham and Davis.
Colin_C
March 18, 2018 at 04:28 pm
I smile every time I remember that the Vikings spent a 1st rounder on Treadwell. Hey, at least he caught more than one pass for them this year.
kevgk
March 18, 2018 at 05:52 pm
Good stats, thanks for the info
OrganLeroy
March 18, 2018 at 06:08 pm
You can't be serious about Davis, he's shown ZERO ability at WR other than running fast in a straight line. Janis with all his route running flaws has shown more WR potential.
Firstdown
March 18, 2018 at 08:37 pm
Facts are facts OL. Here's another one for you. Davis had 6 targets during the last year, and had 2 catches over 20 yards. Geronimo had 48 targets, and only 1 catch over 20 yards. Allison had 8 times as many targets as Davis, and half as many 20 yard catches. Jordy had 88 targets, and only 4 catches over 20.
Did you watch the last game? Davis got 39 snaps. 3 targets, 3 catches, 56 yards. I thought he looked pretty good.
I like Janis, I hope we re-sign him.
Oppy
March 18, 2018 at 04:00 pm
The Packers need to sign a veteran WR:
No, they don't.
4thand1
March 18, 2018 at 04:18 pm
agreed
Ustabeayooper
March 18, 2018 at 04:19 pm
For how many years have fans cried for Janis, Davis, Allison and now Clark to step up. With Jordy no longer in the way, just maybe one of these guys will seize the day. I know Janis is a FA but resign him and give him a shot. Everyone of these guys has played with ARod and have shown some ability to make plays. They know the system and aren't head cases like some of the players mentioned. Sometimes the devil you know is better than the one you don't. We found that out last year with Bennett.
fthisJack
March 18, 2018 at 08:10 pm
get rid of Janis and Davis and draft a WR or 2.
Oppy
March 18, 2018 at 08:21 pm
Why wouldn't you hold on to Janis and Davis AND draft a WR or 2, and see what you've got through training camp before cutting them away? Davis' cap hit is $686k this year.. not exactly breaking the bank, and he's a return man. He's signed through 2019.
I could see not resigning Janis if another team wants to throw irresponsible money at him, but I would expect he could be had for close to league minimum with some incentives otherwise. He's a core ST'er, so he has some built in value to us.
Let them compete. Why limit your options?
PackEyedOptimist
March 18, 2018 at 04:56 pm
Completely disagree with the "need a veteran WR" premise. Cobb and Adams and Graham are ALL veteran receivers! Even Davis, Allison, and Janis have two-plus years of experience. Personally, I'm hoping Clark and Yancey become good enough to make the 53, but I like the WRs in this draft. They aren't tall, but there are some high quality players. I love Moore and Washington, like Gallup, and see a whole bunch of other guys with starter potential.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 05:25 pm
Some interesting replies on this topic. We added a TE to replace Marty B. who was added to Nelson, Adams, Cobb, etc. ...but now Marty is gone, RR is gone, Jordy is gone, and Jimmy G. has been added as a TE, but WR is only in need of a rookie and the cast already here?
Our new nominal WR1 is another bad concussion from having his career cut short and he hasn't been a picture of health besides that issue, and Jimmy Graham isn't exactly Brett Favre when it comes to his health, either. Randall Cobb? He seems like he's been hurt ever since he got the money. Depth at WR has been an issue with Jordy here. You can bet our new Big 3 isn't going to stay healthy for all 16. Should either Adams or Graham go down, or, gulp, both...it'll be like trotting Hundley out to play QB at WR.
We can go light there but I think that's a hugely insane risk.
Oppy
March 18, 2018 at 08:48 pm
From my perspective, the only legitimate knock on Adams as a primary receiver is potential health issues considering the outbreak of concussions he's gone through. Man, he had a really unfortunate, rough season in terms of taking shots to the head in 2017, will give you that.
Ryan Graham
March 18, 2018 at 08:12 pm
I don't really see this as a pressing need, especially considering the cap status in Green Bay. Nelson is out, he had 97 catches in 2016 playing a full 16 game set with Rodgers. With declining numbers say there's about 80-85 catches to go around realistically. Jimmy is gonna get fed a ton of that, close to 50 with room for more. 30-35 catches to be split between Adams, Cobb, Allison and possibly Michael Clark? Seems manageable to me.
If they do go after a wideout in the draft, which I think would be a super idea, I am a huge fan of St. Equanemious Brown out of Notre Dame. Hes a smart guy with ability (that just so happened to make our very own DeShone Kizer look good!) I did hear of motivation issues, but if they can maximize his abilities and he's there in the 3rd he's a steal at 78 IMO. How hard is it to get motivated to play with the best QB in the game anyway?
Firstdown
March 18, 2018 at 09:02 pm
St Brown is a good looking receiver, but the problem is that he has really bad hands. He only caught 44% of his targets, and his QB's completed 51.7% of their passes. St Brown's fellow receiver Chase Claypool (a sophomore) caught 64.4% of his targets. St Brown had 74 targets, and Claypool 46. If Notre Dame wanted to win, they should have reversed that and targeted Claypool the most.
As far as explosiveness, St Brown had 7 yards per target, and his QB's passed for 6.61 yards per target. St Brown was barely better than his own teams average. Claypool on the other hand, had 8.9 yards per target.
St Brown 6-5 203- bad hands, slightly better than average explosiveness
Claypool 6-4 228- great hands, great explosiveness
I'd pass on St Brown, and draft Claypool next year if he comes out.
stockholder
March 19, 2018 at 06:01 am
3rd round pick. packers would take him.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 09:50 pm
Here's more on Jimmy Graham's numbers from Tom Pelissero:
Details on Jimmy Graham's 3-year, $30 million deal with #Packers: He got an $11M signing bonus, due $13M total in 2018. Trigger: a $5 million roster bonus due next March. $300K each year is tied to per-game roster bonuses. An extra $250K incentive each year he makes Pro bowl
Per spotrac:
-5.6 mil cap hit this year.
-12.6 2019
-11.6 2020 potential out 3.6 dead
CheesyTex
March 18, 2018 at 10:00 pm
Thanks. Structure makes it a bit easier to swallow if he flops.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 11:29 pm
We're basically getting Wilkerson and Graham for the price of Nelson this year.
2 years 22 mil with 3.6 dead is still steep but it's only a 2 year solid commitment.
Cubbygold
March 19, 2018 at 05:56 am
Thanks for the info. So what cap space does the team have left this year?
John Ramble Kirk
March 19, 2018 at 07:37 am
About 20 mil right now.
John Ramble Kirk
March 18, 2018 at 11:39 pm
Can the WR you want in the draft do this? #CourtlandSuttonArmStrength
https://twitter.com/thecheckdown/status/975085124172705797
Oppy
March 19, 2018 at 07:30 pm
Just as importantly, can the Safety you want in the draft do that?
Tedlyflyfisher
March 19, 2018 at 12:55 am
I’m hoping Geronimo and Clark take big steps this season. I like Geronimo, but last season he disappointed me. And we’re not getting a lot out of the 2 roster spots that Janis and Davis hold. Davis makes some crappy decisions on returns. If he really is a speed demon, get him on the field at WR once in a while. Even if it’s only as a decoy. Speed is what we desperately need at WR.
croatpackfan
March 19, 2018 at 04:01 am
Chris I do not think Packers need to add a veteran WR. They have their 1st and 2nd WR (Adams & Cobb) with enough experience and their experience is backed up with Graham experience, as recieving TE... I would like Packers to get young WR and to make stronger competition through TC, placing that young WR in mix with G-Mo, Yancey, Clarck, Davis, Janis (I believe he will stay with team), Kumerow, Pearson and, maybe, few late round picks or UDFA...
Also I believe that Packers top priority this draft is pass rusher. I'm uncertain do we need Vita Vea or OLB/DE in the 1st round... I think you can find good CB during day 2 of the draft...
Also, I hope Packers will draft young TE project with the first pick of the 3rd day of the draft!
Minniman
March 19, 2018 at 06:14 pm
I do agree with you on the VV pick. He makes the D-line ridiculously good and adds another dimension as pass rusher (or frees up other capable rushers) - he's also likely going to be BPA at that pick #14 anyway.
In a reportedly deep DB class GB are still looking at high quality options in R2.
Cubbygold
March 19, 2018 at 06:05 am
I think our WR corp has enough experience. I'd prefer a young guy with lots of potential to pair with adams/cobb/graham. Is that guy Ty? Geranimo? Clark? Seems like dupre was a good candidate last year. Just doesn't make sense to have all these WR projects if the teams never going to give them the opportunity to play in meaningful games.
Also, i think the defense has been consistently asked to compete without the resources to fill every need. They've had to plug holes with young inexperienced guys. I think the offense should take on more of that burden. If Rodgers is a HOF qb, he should be capable of playing with a young WR, coaching that guy up, and having success. If 12 is so fragile that one young reciever in the mix is going to throw off the whole offense, then he's not the GOAT
HankScorpio
March 19, 2018 at 07:28 am
WR is a want, not a need. Right now, the 5th skill position player is a complete wild-card. They can use RB, TE or WR without sitting a guy that is being paid big. The offensive staff can get creative with using personnel and formations. That means defenses will have to prepare for more looks. That's an advantage to the Packers, assuming they can coax 800-1200 yards out of 4-6 skill position players that rotate into the 5th skill position slot on offense.
A Packer offense led by Rodgers that has a dynamic TE, throws multiple formations at a defense and can mix in productive runs is a truly dangerous thing. Assuming Graham is that dynamic TE, they have everything they NEED right now, at least at the skill positions. The right side of the OL is another discussion.
Oppy
March 19, 2018 at 07:34 pm
Yes.. No one is really talking about RT at all.
I'm concerned about Bulaga's ability to play any more football, and while we have a number of guys who stepped up and played admirably all season along the line (at all sorts of positions, too), I don't think any of them are necessarily average-starter quality. Who knows, but with 12 taking snaps, don't want to find out the hard way.
DD
March 19, 2018 at 08:55 am
Veteran wide receiver? You're all set right? They let a veteran wide receiver go In Jordy who was willing go restructure for say about 7- 8 million. Now another veteran? Jordy lost a step you say. Okay, then I take it they want more speed? Dumb to me. The chemistry Rodgers had with Jordy was tremendous. Better look at draft since the FA receivers available now are dirt. What the hell are they doing? Not smart in my opinion. Should have restructured non dependable, less productive salaries of Cobb, Matthews, and Baluga to free up more cap money. Also traded no show Kendricks. I'm done. Thanks.
Oppy
March 19, 2018 at 07:36 pm
So, how much do you want for your Nelson jerseys?
Spock
March 19, 2018 at 09:52 am
The elephant in the room is that Rodgers needs to USE his RB's and call out less pass options from run/pass option formations. If the RB's are used (and they seem to all have the ability to catch) getting another FA WR is a luxury not a need! CB is a NEED (disclaimer: maybe the FO is sold on the young CB's on the roster, but I doubt that's "the plan").
Ustabeayooper
March 19, 2018 at 12:05 pm
Remember the pack has 3 RB that can catch. The ability to split our RB outside creates mismatches. I would expect Monty, Jones, and Williams to all operate effectively from the outside especially if paired against LB. If teams commit safeties or CB's to coverage, then the mismatches shift to the slot receiver or TE. Even the running game will be an option if you use 2rb's and split one out. I expect the pack to operate similar to NO did last year with Jones operating like Kamari did.
Royalty Free GM
March 19, 2018 at 04:42 pm
Calvin
stockholder
March 19, 2018 at 06:34 pm
I don't want to agree with you. BUT- You may be right. Calvin may make the fastest impact. It looks like the best defensive players will be gone. Leaving Ridley at the top of their board.