How Each of the Top 2022 WR Prospects Would Fit into the Packers Offense
By GilMartin
Everybody knows the Green Bay Packers biggest need entering the 2022 NFL Draft is at wide receiver. The loss of Davante Adams and Marquez Valdes-Scantling leaves the Packers with big holes to fill as they do not currently have a legitimate WR 1 on their roster.
Fortunately, there are several quality wide receivers available in this year’s draft. Most draft analysts expect either five or six wideouts to go in the first round. With the Packers armed with the 22nd and 28th picks in the first round and two additional picks in the second round, they have the ammunition to land one or more quality receivers whether they choose to trade up or use their current picks late in the first round.
Today we will examine the top six wide receivers in this year’s draft and discuss how well they fit or don’t fit in the Green Bay offense and the expectations the Packers have in a receiver.
Keep in mind that no player is a perfect fit and almost all of them can be productive in some way in the offense if they work hard and stay healthy. The analysis is based on the take of scouts and experts and my own film analysis of these players.
Expect the Packers to select more than one wide receiver in this draft with one likely coming in the first round and another possibly coming on day two of the draft. GM Brian Gutekunst may also opt to obtain a wide receiver in a trade or sign another moderately-priced free agent. But here is a look at how the top six wide receiver prospects fit into the Packers offense and depth chart as of now.
The players are not listed in any particular order:
Garrett Wilson, Ohio State
Wilson is not as tall as the Packers tend to like their receivers. He stands 6’ and weighs about 185 pounds and the Packers tend to prefer taller and thicker players at the receiver position.
Versatility is one of Wilson’s best assets and the Packers could line him up in several different positions on the field to create mismatches, something Matt LaFleur loves to do and did often with Adams.
He is also a precise route runner and is elusive after the catch both of which would certainly make Aaron Rodgers happy.
Because of his lack of size, Wilson may start his NFL career as a slot receiver and with Randall Cobb and Amari Rodgers on the roster, that is one area the Packers don’t have an immediate need for.
Drake London, USC
When it comes to size, London fits the Packers prototype to a “T” at 6’4” and 210 pounds. He is also strong and makes a lot of contested catches.
The former USC star is also a precise route runner which may help him gain the trust of Aaron Rodgers which has not always been easy for young receivers to do.
However, London is not as speedy as the Packers would ideally like in a wide receiver. He struggled at times to gain separation from college cornerbacks and may struggle even more at the NFL level where the players are bigger, faster and have better technique in coverage.
Chris Olave, Ohio State
Olave has the diversity the Packers look for in a receiver. Because of his varied skill set, the Packers could line him up in several different positions during a game once he grasps the offense and that could help LaFleur create favorable matchups in the passing game.
Like Adams, Olave also does a good job of gaining an advantage off the snap of the ball and keeping defensive backs guessing as to what type of pattern he will run.
Olave only stands 6’ tall so he lacks the ideal height the Packers seek. He may not have as much upside as some of the other receivers at the top of this year’s draft but he is further along in his development than most of them. More scouts regard Olave as a talented WR2 than a legitimate WR1 although he could certainly prove them all wrong.
George Pickens, Georgia
Pickens has two things the Packers really like. He is 6’3” which gives him the desired height the Packers prefer and he has outstanding speed. In addition, Pickens times his jumps well and can go up and get high passes ahead of most defensive backs.
Most scouts project Pickens as an outside receiver and with his speed, he could easily be a replacement for MVS in the Packers offense.
One thing Pickens needs to improve is his route running. If he doesn’t run exact routes, he could easily get on his quarterback’s bad side. But if he can do that, Pickens can become a more well-rounded receiver which would put him at a level above Valdes-Scantling.
The other area of concern with Pickens is his health. The former Georgia star only played four games in 2021 after suffering an ACL tear during spring football. If his knee checks out and he adds a little more upper-body strength, Pickens could provide the Packers with a deep threat immediately and potentially more.
Jameson Williams, Alabama
Williams has all the tools you look for in a receiver. He stands 6’1” although at 190 pounds, he may need to add a little more upper-body strength to maximize his potential in the NFL.
Scouts love Williams’ hands and speed and in college, he did a good job of separating from defenders. He also is dangerous with the ball after he makes the catch.
Williams also runs a variety of pass patterns and can already do more than just get deep with his speed. He should be able to win over Rodgers’ trust quicker than most rookie receivers.
The former Alabama star probably has the most upside of any wide receiver in this draft and can be a legitimate WR1 if and when he reaches his full potential.
But there’s a catch. Williams suffered a torn ACL in the national championship game last January and he may not be 100 percent when the 2022 NFL season gets underway. The Packers are also not sure if the injury diminished his speed and cutting ability.
Williams may have the most upside of anybody in this draft but he may also be the biggest gamble and may not be able to play at full strength this season as he recovers.
Christian Watson, North Dakota State
Watson is very physically gifted. He has the size (6’4”, 210 pounds) and speed that the Packers love in a receiver and may have the best raw measurables of any receivers in this year’s draft. He had an easy time separating from defenders in college and is great at getting under long passes. If he and Rodgers get on the same page, Watson could be more lethal than MVS ever was.
He also has experience as a return specialist, something the Packers need. He can run gadget plays like jet sweeps and did so successfully in college. He also blocked well on running plays in college since North Dakota State ran a run-heavy offense.
Despite his athletic gifts, there are questions about Watson. He had a lot of drops in college and needs to improve his concentration. He has a tendency to body catch. He also didn’t have to run too many patterns at North Dakota State. He will have to learn to run accurate patterns and learn a much thicker playbook in the NFL.
He will also be making a big jump from an FCS school to the NFL. The defenders he will be facing will be much bigger and more talented than they were in college. His strong performance in the Senior Bowl may alleviate some of those concerns.
Watson will also be 23 next month so he’s a little older than some of the other receivers available in this year’s draft. If he also needs more time to adjust to playing in the NFL, that is something teams need to consider.
If his hands check out and the Packers are confident he can make the jump to the NFL quickly, Watson could be just the kind of athlete the Packers are looking for at wide receiver.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
__________________________
You can follow Gil Martin on Twitter @GilPackers
__________________________
Comments (140)
PatrickGB
April 23, 2022 at 12:12 pm
It would be great if they could get an amalgamation of the best attributes of all those mentioned. Or draft more than one and use them differently. My guess is that they pick based on skills that cannot be coached up and work on their weaknesses.
LambeauPlain
April 23, 2022 at 12:45 pm
Gutey seems to covet high RAS and college production. Of all his draft selections, 33 had a complete RAS and 26 of those picks were over 8.0.
He also likes to pick recognized team leaders and men with high intelligence, especially in the game...and evidence of high character.
I note very few of his draft selections have been problems in the locker room or off the field. When it happens, they do not stay around...Keke and Sternberger come immediately to mind.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 02:15 pm
This is who he has drafted since the takeover:Amari(3rd), J'mon (4th), MVS (5th), Equan(6th), Yancey (5th), Dupre (7th). 1 for 6, so far. Not a great average and no legitimate #2 guy. The Lazard pickup was his best move. I would let one of his other guys pick the wides. Not the Way of the Packers since Adams was bagged in 2014.
dobber
April 23, 2022 at 02:56 pm
Yancey and Dupre were drafted in 2017, before BG "officially" became GM. We don't know who made the final call on those guys.
MVS just garnered a $30M contract, just not from the Packers...hardly a failed pick for a 5th.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 03:30 pm
He's the 1 out of 6, so far.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 04:59 pm
Of which half were 5th, 6th and 7th rounders. No GM hits 50% there: that’s the rate in the first round. Moore was a true bust. Rodgers hasn’t shown he won’t be at this point, but it’s to early to be sure.
Leatherhead
April 23, 2022 at 10:50 pm
And yet, despite being “1 for 6”, we’re one of the top passing teams in the league every year. Can you explain that?
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 09:51 am
HOF Quarterbacks tend to make those statistics shine in the first analysis, but we know the results at the end of the season prove otherwise.
PeteK
April 24, 2022 at 08:21 am
When you have a great #1 WR and a versatile RB, a team can take chances in later rounds. This year there is a great need to draft high for a WR.
murf7777
April 24, 2022 at 11:00 am
The funny thing is that the Packers might like a taller receivers later in the draft but not in the earlier rounds. Prior to the 4th round, Amari Rodgers, Ty Montgomery, Adams and Cobb were the last WR’s over the past 10 years of drafting. None of them are tall receivers. As you stated Patrick, they will pick the best WR based on his skills and not based on height.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 12:49 pm
I have a feeling there is a good chance London drops and may be available to the Packers since he won't run his 40-yard. Whether because of injury or otherwise doesn't really matter. NFL teams apparently do not have a good read on his speed and everyone already knows he is not fast. I potentially could see London be available at #22. Personally, I do not want London at #22 as there are much better players at Edge, DL, or OT available. Where London would fit I am not sure but would prefer another team takes him early freeing up another player with upside for the Packers at 22.
At 28 I'd definitely would consider Olave but not 22. I'd rather take an Edge or DL than Olave. Just don't get a sense he will be a good WR1. He may be smooth running routes but he doesn't do well at contested catches and high pointing catches.
The only WR's in the aforementioned list that likely will be available when the Packers are on the board are going to be Pickens and Christian. Therefore, barring a trade they should be the focus! IMO, PIckens has more upside with a better likelihood he will be a good player than Watson. Watson is this boards draft crush but Pickens will be the better player both immediately and long-term IMO. The problem the Packers have is EVERY TEAM knows the Packers need WR's and there are going to be teams jumping ahead of the Packer picks to snag these guys away from the Packers. I could possibly see Pickens drafted late Rd 1, but I am very confident both Pickens and Watson will not be available by the middle of round 2.
Gutey is either going to have to reach and take Pickens early at 28, or he is going to have to trade and move up high in round 2 to take either Pickens or Watson. I don't believe either will be available even by mid-second round let alone at 53. If one of them were somehow available at 53 we all know the likelihood is a team wanting a WR would trade up one or two picks before the Packers 53 to snag that WR. Gutey knows this, so if one of these guys is his preferred WR he is going to need to take one early at 28, or he is going to have to be pretty aggressive moving up in round 2 and hope he is able to get one of them.
LambeauPlain
April 23, 2022 at 12:52 pm
You may be correct.
The one waving red flag on Pickens is his attitude. When his coach calls him "uncoachable", need to check that out, especially with the Packer's starting QB's reputation of chewing out players making mistakes in practice and those glares, arm flaps and head shakes during games.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 01:16 pm
Lambeau,
Not all that up on Pickens attitude issues to be frank, but if he has somewhat of an attitude I think between Rodgers, and the Packers incredibly talented DB/Safeties they will take care of his attitude. Whoever the Packers draft at WR facing the Packers defensive backfield is going to require quite an adjustment for that WR. It will be somewhat humbling! Think of Stokes last year facing Adam's all day long? Give Stokes lots of compliments because he did not back down but instead used it as motivation to make him better.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 03:36 pm
I think for us fans trying to evaluate subjective stuff on a player like 'attitude' is BS since we have no idea how to measure it. Teams use psychologists, and tests like the Disc, or Myers Briggs to determine the make-up of the player. Way out of my ability to properly evaluate so I focus only on objective data about what kind of a player are they when on the field. Anything off field is out of my ability to evaluate and measure!
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 05:05 pm
Teams use combine meetings and visits for that purpose too. I agree, rumors are easy to start and not always for valid reasons. Nijman’s coaches whispered that he was untrainable. I think that is debunked now.
We just have to trust the Packers scouting to weed out the problems. We won’t know if Pickens, Wyatt or others are off the board, have been downgraded or wholly unaffected in terms of how they are rated on our board. The Packers have been pretty good at such assessments I think.
Leatherhead
April 23, 2022 at 10:59 pm
Pickens is brash/cocky. Talented young men can be that way. I wouldn’t call it an attitude problem. Set the expectations and pit good support around him. If you can’t coach talent like that, maybe you should consider a new line of work. I had lots of smartass students but if you can’t teach them, then who can you teach?
He’s not a thug, or a woman beater, or a dope trafficker. He’s a challenge.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 01:33 pm
That is rather a good synopsis in my view. If we trade up to take Watson we are spending a ton of capital on next year or the year after. That makes no sense to me. The more I look at things, the more I want to go Edge/DL/S or trade back. It’s extremely likely that there are no healthy true first round receivers ready to play at 22 this year in my view. Trade back or take the BPA at other positions and go hard on perimeter WRs in rounds 2 on. We may need to take more and see who is worth keeping, but that’s life when you go into the draft with a bare cupboard and this crop of prospects.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 02:02 pm
If he's there @ #22, they would not have to trade up.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 03:28 pm
If we take Watson at 22, we deserve what we get this year. Be almost as cheap to bring back Janis. He hands caught too and was a special team ace.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 03:32 pm
You will be proved wrong.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 04:41 pm
Not this year, which is what we have to focus on at WR. I still think he will be good long term, but that’s not helpful to Rodgers and that’s what we got signed up for.
More positively, why not pick this guy up later in the draft (where I originally saw Watson):
Dareke Young:
6’3, 225 Lb.
10 1/8th inch hands;
78 1/8 inch wingspan;
Bench Reps: 22 ;
Vertical Jump: 37 ;
Broad Jump: 11'03" ;
20 Yrd Shuttle: 4.19 ;
3-Cone Drill: 6.88 ;
40 Time Range: 4.43-4.45.
A bigger man if an inch shorter than Watson. Not as fast but still a freakish athlete.
After only nine catches combined in his first two seasons, Young broke out in 2019, leading the team in receptions (25), receiving yards (515), receiving TDs (eight) and yards per catch (20.6).
He also was a productive runner in the Bears’ former ground-heavy, Wing-T, rushing 49 times for 335 yards and four scores. In that system, Young also was asked to occasionally block defensive ends. Only played in 2 games in 2021 but 14 for 218 and 2 TD due to a partial PCL tear in preseason. Good hands: hands catcher. Completed his degree in engineering physics.
Will need to learn nfl pass patterns, but is a capable blocker (having played RB surely helped) at the line and down field and could easily play a key role on STs. He played on every unit in college and at the East-West Shrine Game. This is a day three guy with real athleticism, upside and ST chops.
greengold
April 23, 2022 at 05:30 pm
He looks good. Seems to have a nice feel for where best to find daylight with ball in hand. Both midrange and deep. Some good screen work with YAContact. Runs hard, fast, plays hard. Great blocker just about anywhere. Serious size. At 6-3 nearly an 80” wingspan - from what I’ve read it is north of 79”… Looks the part.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 07:02 pm
Back before the combine, he and Watson were my two raw potential and ST contribution hopes for a late pick. This guy is just as impressive in that context, perhaps more so.
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 11:06 am
Not a big football program or level of competition, but Belichick took Duggar with a two pick last year and is probably scouting Young. A T.O. body type from a liberal Arts College. He was ranked in the 290s. He is a guy to snoop for in the 6th,7th or UDFA.
BirdDogUni
April 23, 2022 at 08:04 pm
No he's not... If we take Watson at 22, we get what we deserve... I agree wholly...
*We deserve a talented #1 WR. Which Watson will prove to be sooner rather than later. (It won't take 3 years...)
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 08:55 pm
Trade Rodgers and start Love, Benkert, whomever, and I’m on board with the risk with Watson. Just as I was with Gary (still want Dareke Young late though),
Straya
April 24, 2022 at 01:03 am
He has a whiff of Janis about him, doesn't he?
LLCHESTY
April 23, 2022 at 02:46 pm
I don't think WR go as fast as people think. The media focuses on skill players way more than teams do and then Packer fans are nervous because it's an immediate need. I think it's very likely Burks is there at 22.
I don't really like the idea of Pickens or Watson in the first round but would be fine with either from 35-40. Who know if Gutey can find a trading partner though.
stockholder
April 23, 2022 at 09:23 pm
I think they go faster then you think. To many pre -draft visits. There is No doubt in my mind they Like Pickens. And at 6'3" he's going to be a Packer.
stockholder
April 23, 2022 at 09:48 pm
Try Both!
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 10:36 am
Watch the film. Watson is not a straight line guy. He moves with wiggle, he has great body control, can hurdle defenders, snatches balls at the high point along the sideline, jukes the CBs and blasts past the safeties on top. Runs the ball out of motion and reverses like a RB. He is a perfect fit for LaFleur's scheme and returned punts to the house. The opposing teams knew he was getting the ball, but could not stop him. Another Florida guy with a track and field background from high school in long jump and triple jump = explosion and burst. His father played DB in the NFL, so I imagine he was schooled in how to break from press etc. Teams are not waiting around for him or any of the top WRs. The more recent musings have him being looked at in the top ten.
greengold
April 23, 2022 at 03:44 pm
Christian Watson is not the only WR in this draft who can take the top off a defense…
This is really, really bordering on the ridiculous. I mean, I can see them jumping up there for him just like I can see them jumping up for others with insane speed. Many are better receivers, with far more diverse offerings, who have been tested in Power 5 programs.
We can’t forget, whichever way Gutekunst & LaFleur decide to go, they are going to be selecting the best players they can for this entire team, for reasons we won’t know straight away. Other positions may call out more early, as special talents drop, which they always do. Here are the speed rankings.
There is one 4.2 and eight 4.3 WRs in this draft:
Tyquan Thornton 4.28
Velus Jones 4.31
Calvin Austin III 4.32
Danny Gray 4.33
Bo Melton 4.34
Darren Thompkins 4.35
Christian Watson 4.36
Garrett Wilson 4.38
Chris Olave 4.39
Alec Pierce and Skyy Moore, Jahan Dotson, Khalil Shakir right behinds these players in low 4.4s. George Perkins 4.47.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 03:33 pm
You have your guys, we have ours. See how it shakes out next week. The Baylor offense on some routes is a wing and a prayer.
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 11:05 am
P.S. you have seen us mock those other dudes as well. The OSU guys may be gone by Pick #12. London and Burks are over-rated. Watson and Pierce are solid with three plus years of film to view. I really liked Bo Melton vs the Badgers this year. He is my sleeper. Velus Jones is not going to last past rd four.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 03:43 pm
But he’s the post combine darling. Stats and opposition. be damned along with film: he’s going to walk in from a run first division 2 offense and seamlessly not only acquire an NFL offensive route tree, but learn how to route run and not to hands catch. Seriously wish I’d never got interested in him before the combine as a late round pick. That’s what he is, raw: tons of potential but as much to learn. Perfect match for Rodgers in what could be his last year.
greengold
April 23, 2022 at 04:05 pm
Watson did not make Athlon’s Top 100 listing. We’ll see if the WR size/speed experiment is still on soon enough. Doubt heavily Gutekunst take that great a leap over other exceptional talents needed elsewhere, but I could be wrong, and I’ll support whichever players he selects, 100%.
Great debates here, and I find it all to be some fun, remarkable times for this Packers team. Winning Lombardis will be even more fun should we realize the dream again soon. Pretty far off one, it can seem sometimes.
While we have many different ideas here, at least we can all look forward to that day, and in the meantime, hope fore the best.
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 10:26 am
Before you mentioned the magazine the other day, I thought it was out of business.
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 10:45 am
No he was on the map the past two-three years when he teamed up with Trey Lance. The 49rs are very interested in this guy. He's not to be confused with Darrius Shepard.
BirdDogUni
April 23, 2022 at 08:30 pm
Alec Pierce ran an unofficial 4.33 at the combine. I watched it. He damn sure looked like he was running 4.33... Thornton looked 4.28 as well.
I don't know why anyone would be stressing over who Gutey is going to pick.
Hello - We have no control over who he picks. We all have our favorites and the guys we'd rather not see in Green & Gold for various reasons.
We all need to be careful, because the guy we might not like could be a Packer next week. For me, it's London. Now my daughter is British, and I love the city, but I just don't think we want to spend a first round pick on Drake. I suppose Gutey will now, but like I said, I have no control over that, so why worry?
stockholder
April 23, 2022 at 09:42 pm
He won't take Pierce. I guarantee it. Put your money on Logan Hall instead.
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 11:33 am
This is our virtual barbershop. We'll take the slings and arrows.
NickPerry
April 24, 2022 at 06:09 am
"The more I look at things, the more I want to go Edge/DL/S or trade back. It’s extremely likely that there are no healthy true first round receivers ready to play at 22 this year in my view. Trade back or take the BPA at other positions and go hard on perimeter WRs in rounds 2 on."
THIS is what I'm starting to think as well CW, and I think Gute may be thinking the same thing as well. How many QB's are taken will factor in especially if 2 or 3 go off the board before 22. I wouldn't be surprised at all if Gute traded one of those picks to a team like the Jets or the Seahawks who have multiple 2nd round picks.
PackEyedOptimist
April 24, 2022 at 06:27 am
...or OT or ILB. (decent chance that's the BPA).
It's interesting, NP, it might be to the Packers' advantage if several QBs go before 28 (more talent available where we want it), but it's also to the Packers advantage if only one or zero QBs go before 28, as that makes trading down (or for future picks) a better value for us, as teams will want that 5 year tag on a rookie QB.
hobowilly
May 04, 2022 at 10:28 am
Howdy! My gut tells me Watson will be our best selection this year (he has all the tangibles GB looks for) and yes, it may take more than next year. Although MVS has had 3-4 yrs in the system he never made it to his ceiling-Watson is an upgrade probably his first year over what MVS has-that's a strong statement! Also, i don't think Watkins will be so successful here, i just have a bad feeling, but remain hopeful-t'was a good gamble.
My order of impact from draft (in terms of contribution, given they are available most of the season): Watson, Rhyan, Wyatt, Tom, Q Walker, Engabere, R Walker, Doubs, Toure, Carpenter and Ford. IMHO, i think the player will lowest value based on where they were picked is Doubs and the best value pick might be Tom. Last, too many are questioning Watson, i think he'll make an impact this coming season...how big, who knows-i just hope he stays healthy. No, i am not calling him the next Metcalf, but he has the RAS to become a #1 WR and why not, esp under AR?!
Starrbrite
April 23, 2022 at 02:58 pm
Yep —-I agree knockthesnotoutofyou.
Johnny
April 23, 2022 at 03:33 pm
More picks better odds. Trade back a bit in first, trade Love for a second, use both 4s to get to the top of the second with both second rounders, all that could net Pack 7 picks between 28 and 55
PackEyedOptimist
April 24, 2022 at 06:45 am
If BG trusts his board--and you know he does--this extremely deep, and filled with much-debated players, draft would be a terrible time to give up those fourth-round picks.
Trust that your opinions as a GM are accurate and pick up those two more players. I believe there are going to be really good players all the way through the end of the seventh-round. We amateurs don't know them well, but I'm sure BG has a LONG list this year of players who can upgrade the roster.
Consider: Why trade up in the second to get (using the CHTV Big Board), say, a Christian Watson at 41, when you could wait and get a George Pickens at 53 AND a Bo Melton at 122? Sam Williams? OR Drake Jackson AND Josh Paschal? Trey McBride? OR Jelani Woods AND Greg Dulcich?
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 10:52 am
Yes, hold the fourths. They can use 7s and 4th or 5th 2023 comp picks to move around in the fifth or into round six.
hobowilly
April 23, 2022 at 10:47 pm
guys, love this discussion. Where i go is that i trust Gutey & co to sort it out. AND, we don't know if he's allowing AR input either, do we?! That's a strange road to go down, but IMHO AR isn't the average fb guy..he has his own group studying FA's and draft potential. Having shared that, GB is going to work their board. It appears to me if their guy is available, say @ 28, they may pull the trigger there, but otherwise I'd be fine with an OT, edge or safety and i've written my belief GB selects a safety ahead of a WR if there guy is there at either 22 or 28. I like Brisker myself and if they select him in the first, the pundits will say its a reach. Who cares??! This is NOT Gutey's first rodeo. Remember Gutey likes RAS scores!
splitpea1
April 23, 2022 at 12:47 pm
I'm not sure we even take a WR in the first round because there are plenty of receiver-needy teams ahead of in the draft like the Falcons, Saints (2 picks), and Steelers; plenty behind us too like the Cardinals, Chiefs, and Bears. So I would expect some maneuvering by Gute somewhere along the line, although I pray it's not too costly.
I try not to get attached to prospects leading up to the draft (because as a fan, you're largely setting yourself up for disappointment), but if we're working off this list, Olave ("further along in his development" is very helpful for the Packers this time) and Watson (good blocker and talented special teamer) seem to be the best bets.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 12:55 pm
I enjoy the draft and analyzing but rarely get upset because it is meant as fun. Fun to try matching wits comparing my draft choices vs Gutey. I have shared this many times before but in 2020 my #1 choice was Jefferson, and my #2 choice was Jordan Love. As soon as Jefferson was taken and then when I saw the Packers trading up I screamed out at my draft party Gutey is taking Jordan Love. It doesn't matter whether anyone agrees with the Jordan Love pick but it is pretty cool to be spot on.....for once! :)
MarkinMadison
April 23, 2022 at 01:00 pm
I remember distinctly there was something posted on CHTV about a week before the draft comparting Jordan Love to Aaron Rodgers, and I thought, huh, I wonder if they would? So I was neither surprised nor particularly upset when Love was drafted.
PatrickGB
April 23, 2022 at 01:37 pm
I also was not initially surprised or upset by the Love pick. However, I was confused. Then, like now, I expected a WR drafted high yet also saw the ones I considered were gone.
greengold
April 23, 2022 at 04:07 pm
Same here, but after a time, I got it. Totally blindsided by the pick that day. I wanted Gutekunst to pick Michael Pittman Jr. in the worst way…
MarkinMadison
April 23, 2022 at 12:57 pm
It feels like everybody and their brother will be looking to move back in this draft and very few will be looking to move up. There are no "can't miss" prospects at QB or WR this year, and there are a lot of highly ranked tackles with question marks too. But I agree wth KTSOOY, if I'm a team and I want a certain WR, I'm jumping in front of the Packers. So that means Gutey will be playing a game of chicken if he is watching a WR fall that he really wants. That is tough sledding. So I just do not know, and if Gutey "overdrafts" a WR he likes I'm not going to throw my beer at the TV.
I'd be interested to hear Gil's take on Treylon Burks. His test numbers suck but he has great size and had a really productive college career in the SEC. Other guys I like who were really productive in the SEC: Mathis at DT and Paschal at Edge. KTSOOY - what are your takes on Mathis and Paschal?
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 01:12 pm
Mark,
Yes, interestingly Burks had not been mentioned in this article, subsequently I did not mention him above but should have. There is a good chance Burks will be available and I would not have any problems with him at 28. A great player with a very physical game! I like him and think I would take him over Olave. To me the Packers need someone like Burks or Pickens with size at #1, and someone like Olave (you could insert 10-12 other WR's in this draft in place of Olave) would be a great complimentary #2 WR.
There are 'lots' of speed WR's available later in the draft, or the smaller shiftier slot type WR's with good hands. However, there are only so many of those longer/taller WR's with speed/size that can outsize and high point contested catches as a #1 WR. That is what makes guys like Pickens, Burks, Pierce, and Watson so valuable.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 01:59 pm
Burks scares me. A physically dominant player against college opponents who is not fast. That’s not an issue if the player is explosive in short area skills, but Burks’ testing suggests the opposite. His 3 cone was 7.28. To put that in context, Lazard ran a 7.11. He also had a very poor vertical score and mediocre broad and ten yard splits.
Put those together and you have the archetypal college beast who can’t separate or get YAC in the pros. Of course he could just have had a bad day at the combine, but he declined to take the opportunity to better those scores at his pro day, which suggests he’s not convinced of that. Yes he looks smooth, but that means very little if he lacks speed or agility. He’s not a TE body, he could disappear in the pros.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 02:06 pm
A three pick with bust potential.
Minniman
April 23, 2022 at 03:06 pm
I’m not seeing what Burks brings to the team that the pass catching AJ Dillon or Deguara can’t.
From the losses last year it seems that the Packers need to improve their variety in attack. I may be mistaken but I’m not seeing where Burks would help address this problem.
Leatherhead
April 23, 2022 at 11:09 pm
I like Burks a lot, he’ll definitely be drafted in the first round. He’s a really physical receiver who is hard to tackle. We should take him with one of our first round picks.
I’ve done simulations where we get Burks and Watson.
greengold
April 23, 2022 at 01:21 pm
Mark, you’re so right with this. A lot of those teams will be trying to fleece those late R1, sitting in the catbird seat.
As for Treylon Burks, I’ve been back and forth. Recently soured, then, was reviewing Athlon Top 100 players, and, I’ll be damned if Burks isn’t sitting #17 overall, ahead of Olave #19…
Part of the problem is he and Lazard are of a kind. While similar, Burks does well in Jet concepts and screens. I trust Athlon, and always have, being my top go-to for decades of drafts.
Adding both Burks AND Olave could be really smart, and insane good fortune, should it happen.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 01:48 pm
GG,
So much of the WR conversation is focused on one WR when it should really be about how does the #1 and #2 WR's compliment each other? Your point of selecting Burks and Olave is spot on and would make a fantastic pairing, which would undoubtedly be very successful together. Believe we all NEED to think about how the top two WR's drafted this year compliment one another vs focusing on just one WR.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 01:48 pm
duplicate
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 02:13 pm
I don’t think they do compliment each other. Burks is bigger, lacks explosion while Olave has that (although he’s not run a 3 cone) but is slender. Olave has long speed. Neither of them have an even decent vertical. Olave is therefore going to either get completely over the top or operate more like Adams. Burks too seems destined to play in the middle of the field.
A guy like Pierce might be a better fit with either. He doesn’t run as good routes but he has size, vertical ability and true speed as well as explosion. Olave is your Adams with less physically and better long speed. Pierce is your conventional deep threat who can diversify with time. Burks is a likely possession guy whom I think would be rendered superfluous by the bigger and more experienced Lazard.
Johnblood27
April 23, 2022 at 05:32 pm
Pair Pierce with Skyy Moore... electric!
BirdDogUni
April 23, 2022 at 10:53 pm
Just for reference:
Jameson Williams longest Reception was 94 yards.
Burks long reception for the year was 91 yards.
Olave's long was 61yards.
London's was 44 yards. (I'm not a fan, especially after seeing this stat.)
Garrett Wilson 77 yards.
Skyy Moore 74 yards.
Calvin Austin III 75 yards.
Velus Jones was 72 yards.
Danny Gray was 68 yards.
Leatherhead
April 23, 2022 at 11:13 pm
There is no WR in this draft who will break more tackles than Burks. When he’s running with the ball, he’s a hard man to get on the ground. I like physical guys on offense and this guy is.
Johnblood27
April 24, 2022 at 07:55 am
Im with ya here LH.
Didn't you absolutely LOVE when Sharpe would rag-doll CB and S after the catch?
I did!
Leatherhead
April 24, 2022 at 04:24 pm
That stiff arm that Burks uses....that should be illegal,IMO. I mean, if Hands to the Face is illegal, and hitting people in the head is illegal, why is a stiff arm allowed? It seems unfair to me. Then again, I thought it was fair to clothesline ball carriers who got too close to me.
Yeah, he just bashes these tackles with that like a hard punch. It's effective. I think he's the toughest WR in the bunch. That's why I'd take him. And the very first time he rag dolls a defender like that,I am going to LMFAO.
Johnblood27
April 24, 2022 at 08:40 pm
through the 70's and 80's all we had to cheer for was tough play.
I still hunger for it although it has gone the way of the Dodo and Dino...
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 11:13 am
I'll take a 4.35-4.36 Jet motion guy vs. a 4.56 guy any day.
Leatherhead
April 24, 2022 at 04:29 pm
That difference is 0.2 seconds, the amount of time it takes to blink. Over 40 yards, which is longer than most runs. In their underwear.
stockholder
April 23, 2022 at 09:33 pm
Jumping in front- Thats why you take Watson @22. ( Per Kiper draft. ) And if Gute is smart. - He'll take Calvin Austin in the 3rd. Regardless of his height.
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 10:56 am
Austin is liquid mercury. Big time guy on the move in space and a dynamic return guy. Like Skyy Moore he will go higher up the board than you expect. After three whiffs for the Big Prize, I am hoping the Packer Way turns into the autobahn.
greengold
April 23, 2022 at 01:26 pm
Exactly, Patrick. Use them together, and differently, whoever the WRs are that we take this draft. Diversity in what each specializes in can be really tough on opposing defenses. Mix it up.
I was not a Watson fan, but, I have to admit, him simply going deep and occasionally threatening the Jet adds uncertainty for DBs. Watson is an automatic in pulling Safety help, stacking… and, damn if that wouldn’t clear the way for high possession chain moving for Olave and Lazard… should Gutekunst make that happen.
Adding both players R1 might be smart, and neither player would be put into the position of having to do it all.
Johnblood27
April 24, 2022 at 07:58 am
One of the problems with having 3 WR with complementing skills/attributes is that there is still that little nagging thing about only allowing 11 players on the field at one time.
One trick ponies are for 3rd day selections only.
Leatherhead
April 24, 2022 at 04:44 pm
I would be satisified with Watson at 28, and I'd love him at 53.
I think the WRs will fall like this. Jameson Williams, Drake London, and the two Ohio State guys will all be gone by the time we pick at #22. Since I eschew midget receivers, that takes a couple others out of the picture. So at #22, I think we're down to Burks, Watson, Pierce, Pickens, and a few others I can't recall at the moment. I think there's a fair chance one of them might still be around at #53, and a virtual certainty that at least one will be there at #28.
We're gonna dress Lazard, Cobb, Amari, and Watkins. We need one more active receiver, and maybe another on the inactives.
I'd get the best WR we can at #22 and I'd be thankful he was available. IMO, that would be Burks. He's the most physical WR in this draft. Blocking, catching, running....he uses his body really well. He's smooth. Good hands. Seems like a decent citizen. I think he helps us , right away this year, more than any other player we could draft.
PhantomII
April 23, 2022 at 01:21 pm
I believe Gute will either trade JA strait across for a #1 WR or move up as high as 18 to get his guy. We are not going to trade for a WR for draft picks when JA money will kill the CAP. We can't pay both north of 20 Mill. If we pay JA I see us taking 2 Safeties to replace Savage and Amos next Season. Next Cap move would be DL to eventually replace Clark and OT eventually replace BAK. I think this is the way things go until we get this CAP mill stone from our neck. We will compete and backfill at the same time while parasitically reducing Cap thru attrition of contracts expiring and rookies coming on line. Gotta really hit your picks for this to work. GPG
greengold
April 23, 2022 at 06:05 pm
Really great points. Can you imagine Packer World if Gutekunst took both Safeties Cine and Pitre off the top of this draft???
Holy F Balls!
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 01:49 pm
I wouldn't even turn on my computer for a few weeks after the draft....
BirdDogUni
April 24, 2022 at 12:16 am
LMAO... Yes you would.
*Also depends who else Gutey takes.
Have to look at the draft as a whole. If Gutey were to take two Safeties high to eventually replace both Amos and Savage, it might actually be a smooth move taking them now. Granted, we'd have to do some solid work in 2nd and 3rd round though. ; )
I haven't looked at the Safeties much but Cine and Pitre seem like solid choices. Maybe not in the 1st round though and not both of them. Lol
PackEyedOptimist
April 24, 2022 at 06:57 am
I'd prefer Hill and Pitre, but your comment stands. :-D Much like taking Jameson Williams, there wouldn't be much of a return on one of them this year, but it could be huge as soon as next year.
I can't imagine him taking two safeties in the first, but I'd be totally on board with a safety and an ILB.
It does seem likely that the short-list Packer BPAs at 22 and 28 could include safeties.
dobber
April 23, 2022 at 01:52 pm
Getting an extension done on JA is a priority, but there's still time. I don't see him going anywhere.
PatrickGB
April 23, 2022 at 02:01 pm
Unless they worry about his injury, I think that they hold on to JA and push his contract out. In doing so they can actually save money on this years cap. The team uses 3 CB’s a lot.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 03:31 pm
I think it is David Bachtiari who is more at risk than JA. Let's see how Bachtiari, JA and Jenkins plays this year after injury combined with what the Packers do in the draft for OL. I'd suggest keep a close eye on what the Packers do for OL this year in the draft as it may be a reflection on what they do with Bachtiari next year.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 02:10 pm
I like the trade idea, but they would have to look at Jaire's replacement with a guy like Gardner, Stingley or Elam.
I would not be surprised by a move like this. It makes sense.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 05:37 pm
We need a S badly now. There’s no one on the roster they’d let on the field last year behind the two starters. One of those starters may be gone next year too. So we have a need now and for the future. A third S may also play regular snaps in this D as well.
greengold
April 23, 2022 at 06:13 pm
Yes we do. Especially one good in both coverage and run stop, with speed. You get that near the top of this draft, R1 for Cine or Pitre (for us) or early R2 in a trade down. A few more thereafter…
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 11:30 am
I would rather use a three pick on Taylor (4.36) as a CB/FS type. Savage will be in a prove it year. There are guys to snag in the fourth who can hit and take care of the middle. They moved Black out the door, thankfully and Scott was injured a bit in '21. I liked Shawn Davis better in the short zones.
jont
April 23, 2022 at 01:43 pm
Do the packers really favor tall WRs? They did in the past to be sure, but since MLF brought a new offensive scheme, is this still a critical point?
GB has drafted only one receiver since MLF arrived, Amari at 5'9", and brought in Watkins at 6'1". Winfree is also 'only' 6 foot 1. (Who am I forgetting?) Among those who didn't stick, Begelton is 6' and Funches is 6'4". This isn't really a pattern of big guys like MVS, EQ, and Lazard (all 6'4" or 6'5").
I don't know if this is a shift in selection priorities or just the way it has gone with a few players, but it does show that big, though preferable, is not the requirement it might have been.
dobber
April 23, 2022 at 01:50 pm
WR Drafted by BG:
J'Mon Moore 6'3"
MVS 6'4"
ESB 6'5"
AmRod 5'11"
So the draft data seems to indicate that pattern.
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 02:36 pm
He did say after LaFleur arrived, but that is a sample of one and a player we assume was picked to be a slot type and thus atypical (he’s not small, he’s just not tall and built like a RB).
Winfree is a SFA as was Watkins. Winfree might be in the mix for the Adams type role. Adams himself is only 6’1. Watkins was a cheap vet willing to take a prove it deal to resurrect his career after his last attempt was derailed by health. More latitude is required to get those. He is 6’1 and 211, so not particularly small anyway . Malik Taylor is 6’1 and 220, Chris Blair the same and 198. The only small receiver is Gafford, but he’s a return option type if anything and approximated to Ervin in size (who was listed as a RB but a Gute signing for that role).
Olave would be outside the circle that appears to be about 6’1 or 210 pounds, depending on role.
Leatherhead
April 24, 2022 at 04:55 pm
I think the organization doesn't like the midgets, not just Gutekunst (who has been brought up through that organization). I go back to guys like Antonio Freeman, Terrence Murphy, Javon Walker, Robert Ferguson, Jennings, Jones, Jordy, ......not a midget among them.
The last midget WR I recall is a 4th rounder named Corey Rodgers who failed to make the team. Carrying a weapon into a bar might have had something to do with that, too. But he was kind of midgety.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 08:52 pm
Don't know the answer and as always depends on the talent to go along with the height/size. I will say that since MLF was with the Packers they already had a 6'5" WR in both Lazard & EQS, and a 6'4" WR in MVS. You do not want all your WR's to be the same. Now that the Pack has lost both MVS and ESB does that change their perceptions on what is needed come draft time?
I suspect they will go with bigger WR's like one of Burks, Pickens, Watson, and Pierce. Then they will go with that 5'11 to 6'1" WR for the other WR selection.
PhantomII
April 23, 2022 at 02:23 pm
Gute said he liked Amari's build for GB winter...built like a RB in the Slot. I think the tall WR's are better in the run game blocking....When they're fast...It's very good in the pass game. That's where we need to go with WR if we can with speed and tall frame to go up or box out...fade catches.
MarkinMadison
April 23, 2022 at 04:26 pm
You make a good point but MLF still wants receivers to block. Some smaller receivers can. A lot of the smaller receivers at the top of this draft are both shorter and sub-190 lbs. It doesn't mean they CAN'T block but you have to look a little harder.
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 11:41 am
Do you take a Tyreek Hill or a Marvin Harrison and expect them to block? Get real TEs who can move. They get the job done.
Leatherhead
April 24, 2022 at 06:21 pm
Blocking is important. Nothing gets done on offense without blocking. Even if you're Tyreek Hill, most of the snaps when you're on the field are plays where you don't get the ball. If you're not blocking anybody, what the hell are you doing then?
One of the big advantages the Packers have, IMO, is that when you include Lewis and Lazard, we're putting 7 pretty good blockers on the field.
MarkinMadison
April 25, 2022 at 06:49 am
Well, you just kind of summed up the question right there. If you are MLF & Gutey, do you take Tyreek Hill or Marvin Harrison, or do you look for somebody else? Because the question is not what jannesbjornson would do, the question is what will Gutey do?
PatrickGB
April 23, 2022 at 01:49 pm
As many have noted, the value of players have been all over the place this draft. Injuries, Covid, extra eligibility have made this draft pure guesswork. After the Adams trade and the money paid out for veteran players I assumed that GB would spend two firsts on WR. But other teams are looking for WR’s too and they may be overrated this draft. I am now leaning more towards BPA for the first round and look for WR potential in the second round on down. Please ignore any of my previous posts denigrating other players that you guys have put forward. ;-)
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 11:49 am
The College Passing Games are getting more sophisticated and innovative every year. They know speed to the spot and RAC are the name of the game. Short yardage post-up plays should go to the TEs.
oceanstrength
April 23, 2022 at 01:57 pm
Pretty glaring oversight to overlook Treylan Burks who is and has been the consensus 22 pick for months.
HawkPacker
April 23, 2022 at 02:35 pm
I have seen Olave at 22 many times.
oceanstrength
April 23, 2022 at 09:21 pm
So what. Burks is the consensus. Its an average of all mocks. He's in the top six is all I'm saying.
HawkPacker
April 24, 2022 at 10:14 pm
I'm not saying I love Olave however I have seen him at 22 a lot.
stockholder
April 23, 2022 at 02:19 pm
T. Burks was compared to Deebo. To good to fall.
dobber
April 23, 2022 at 03:00 pm
Burks doesn't test in Deebo's league. He'll have to show it on the field as a pro to see how that comparison holds.
Johnblood27
April 23, 2022 at 05:38 pm
Burks would stalk and gut Deebo... even without dogs!
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 06:49 pm
If he could catch him, which he couldn’t
BirdDogUni
April 23, 2022 at 10:55 pm
He'd never see Burks coming...
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 11:16 pm
No binoculars?
BirdDogUni
April 23, 2022 at 11:59 pm
Deebo will be too busy counting his money to care...
Leatherhead
April 24, 2022 at 05:03 pm
If he couldn't catch him, then I reckon he might have to trick him into a trap.
We're getting near the nitty gritty, and I'd encourage everybody to watch Burks on video if possible. He's big, he's smooth, he catches, he runs well with the ball and he has a sledgehammer stiff arm. He blocks. He's a physical WR , who is adept at high pointing the ball, which makes him very useful around the endzone.
I know you think he's slow, but he's faster than the guys trying to catch him on all the video I've seen.
Leatherhead
April 24, 2022 at 06:36 pm
Burks is a lot bigger than Deebo, who is under 6 foot. It's not the comparison I'd make. I'd compare him with that guy up in Seattle, Metcalf, because he's so strong. This is a 6'3", 225 man who rassles hogs. Check out that stiff arm and watch him run away from would be tacklers.
This is a big, strong, tough guy with excellent hands.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 03:36 pm
I don't see it.
beerandbrats
April 23, 2022 at 02:31 pm
The NFL seems to be changing with more small, fast players entering the league but I lean more towards the big bodied receivers. I'm hoping Gutekunst has something up his sleeve because getting WR1 could be tricky business with everyone else trying to grab a receiver in the first round!
Duneslick
April 23, 2022 at 04:44 pm
Kahlil Shakir end of 2nd round. Maybe the best of them all
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 23, 2022 at 08:55 pm
Dune,
So agree!
Want Packers to draft him so bad. Late 2nd or early 3rd. What a player!
Pickens and Kahlil and Packers are set at WR for years.
BirdDogUni
April 24, 2022 at 08:15 am
Watch Amari Rodgers highlights... Kahlil is the same guy.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 24, 2022 at 08:39 am
Far from being similar Bird. Not even close!
jannesbjornson
April 24, 2022 at 12:02 pm
Short arms, 4.4 speed and knows routes coming from Boise. A lot of WRs will be packing the first and second rounds. Doubs is another Mountain West guy who is a sleeper with a Davonte body type. Prolific offense at Nevada with QB Strong and Turner at TE.
golfpacker1
April 23, 2022 at 10:15 pm
The WR's I would love for Green Bay to pick in round one would be #1 Jamison Williams,#2 Treylon Burks,#3 Chris
Olave,#4 Christian Watson. Any of the 4 would be fine. 2nd tier George Pickens,Alec Pierce,Jalen Tolbert,Shakir
from Boise ST. My sleepers Erik Ezukanma (Treylon Burks clone) andTyquan Thornton.
Deep sleepers Weston Northern Ia and Jaquez Ezzard Sam Houston (unguardable and a kick returner).
I am newly excited about the Giants wanting to trade Kadarious Toney, Jets wanting to trade Denzel Mims, Eagles wanting to trade Jalen Reagor. All former Packer draft crushes picked before we got a chance and available for
alot less than first round picks, Add Patriots Nkeal Harry to list. 2 things they all have in common, all first round picks and all had terrible QB play with no chance to show there talent. Probably could have any of them for a third or less. A cheap fix to our problem. What do you think?
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 11:40 pm
I don’t think we take a slot in trade or through the draft. Rodgers will get another go and we retained Cobb. That would take Ezzard out if the picture unless as a specialist returner. In Toney’’s case there appear to be some issues that I don’t know enough about, but at least raise questions about his attitude.
I do like Thornton in the mid rounds. A long strider like MVS, but with better hands although he seems shy of contact. There is no hiding his 4.2 speed but at 6’2 and 177, he’s thin to the point where I fear he might break. Still, I could see him being very attractive to Gute if we don’t take a speedster before.
Ezukanma is less strong and more rigid than Burks but possibly better in a straight line. Overall I think he’d be competing for the Lazard role as a back up, if he falls into the later mid rounds maybe, but I don’t think he’s an ideal fit with our needs. I’d take Thornton first every time.
My draft sleeper is one I described above, Young,
Coldworld
April 23, 2022 at 11:51 pm
I don’t think we take a slot in trade or through the draft. Rodgers will get another go and we retained Cobb. That would take Ezzard out if the picture unless as a specialist returner. We definitely need a punt returner from somewhere.
In Toney’s case there appear to be some issues that I don’t know enough about, but which at least raise questions about his attitude. Overall, I’m not all that excited by trades for slots unless one of Cobb or Rodgers goes the opposite way (both highly unlikely regardless of wisdom).
I do like Thornton in the mid rounds. A long strider like MVS, but with better hands although he seems shy of contact. There is no hiding his 4.2 speed but at 6’2 and 177, he’s thin to the point where I fear he might break. Still, I could see him being very attractive to Gute if we don’t take a speedster before.
Ezukanma is less strong and more rigid than Burks but possibly better in a straight line. Overall I think he’d be competing for the Lazard role as a back up, if he falls into the later mid rounds maybe, but I don’t think he’s an ideal fit with our needs. I’d take Thornton first every time.
My draft sleeper is one I described above, Dareke Young. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FgcczIJuWGI
BirdDogUni
April 24, 2022 at 12:42 am
They brought Thornton in for a visit. Not saying they'll draft him, but they were at least interested enough to take a closer look at him.
Weren't you just giving me crap about small school guys? Lenoir-Rhyne, what conference are they in again? ; ) JK
I like Young. He's like a small school Burks. ; )
I hate to say it, because I don't want to jinx us, but what if Gutey goes crazy and doesn't draft a WR until the 7th round and drafts guys like Ezukanma, Young, and Bo Melton? Lol Could you imagine the comment sections? (That would actually be fun!) : P
croatpackfan
April 24, 2022 at 03:53 am
When I'm watching highlights of any player I always wonder where are highlights of the player mistakes and failings. Highlights are like good commercial. You buy it and than you find out that there is important flaw in the product.
I do not comment on prospects as I do not follow college football, so I give a doubt in any highlights as tool to evaluate players...
HaroldDrake
April 24, 2022 at 01:21 am
Excellent piece! I am personally praying that Gutekunst picks Georgia's George Pickens in Round 1 and ho(l)mes in on Christian Watson in Round 2. That would redeem Gute for his wasted first round selection of the bust of the century - Jordan Love.
croatpackfan
April 24, 2022 at 04:01 am
It is almost unbeliveable number of people here who "hate" Jordan Love. But when you talk bad about Diva, they would found al the excuses in the world for him Something like he is not guilty he got huge contract. Well, where is the mistake of Jordan Love for being selected in the first round.
Btw, I realy hope Jordan Love will be successful in NFL and I promise all of JL haters that, after JL become successful QB, on every post they will post to place reply doubting their knowledge on football because of this hate posts...
HaroldDrake
April 24, 2022 at 05:34 am
It is too bad that people of limited intellectual gifts are unable to distinguish a deep dislike for a draft pick for the dislike of the player himself. JLove has a terrible throwing motion, lacks accuracy, and his passes often lack velocity. I have no more hatred for Love than I do for overcooked pasta - or for CHTV followers who lack basic English grammatical skills. I couldn't care less about Love on a personal level. And my view that Love is a terrible and wasted draft pick is shared by 99% of NFL commentators.
PackEyedOptimist
April 24, 2022 at 06:14 am
"I couldn't care less about Love on a personal level." *proceeds to make personal attacks on the intelligence of a contributor he knows nothing about.
How do you critique the English of someone using a second language? You know, a CROAT? How's your grammar in YOUR second language, Harry?
Croat is a regular contributor whose contributions are every bit as measured and reasonable and wise as the best of us on this site.
Your "call 'em as I see 'em" complaints against Love are much the same, much less your "99%" hyperbole.
I'm about as middle-of-the-pack on my opinions of Jordan as anyone. He hasn't exhibited star qualities yet, any more than Davante did after three years, but he has shown enough for me to believe he MIGHT develop into an above-average NFL starting QB. Either way, you might want to get off your high horse about other people--players AND contributors.
BirdDogUni
April 24, 2022 at 07:32 am
Hear, hear...
HaroldDrake
April 25, 2022 at 01:05 am
I made a mild joke about Croat's lack of English grammatical skills in response to his calling me a "hater" which I regard as a very personal attack and nasty remark. There is nothing in my post which merits being included in the "hater" category (which usually refers to emotionally unbalanced social media trolls) simply because I believe that the first round selection of Jordan Love was a terrible mistake and that thus far Love has not shown any signs of being able to evolve into an elite QB. But you are right, I should not have referenced Croat's grammar despite his intemperate response to my post. Conversely, people with whom one disagrees should not automatically be regarded as "haters."
Johnblood27
April 24, 2022 at 07:52 am
A personal attack on CROAT? How dare you!
Besides your lack of common courtesy, your "expert evaluation" of Jordan Loves skill set is absolutely retarded. Have you ever watched him throw a football? Dolt.
As far as production, his college career exceeds that of Aaron Rodgers, who by the way, based upon HIS college production was in consideration for the #1 overall pick in his draft year. Oh yeah, and Love came out a year early. Im not gonna post all that info, do your own due diligence on the FACTS. Oh yeah, you won't because facts are completely foreign to you.
Why do I bother even replying to idiots... Oh yeah, thats right, you attacked a poster on his second language skills... You are the lowest form of keyboard warrior there is.
HaroldDrake
April 25, 2022 at 01:15 am
It's so much fun for me to see someone complain about my "personal attack" which came in response to Croat's personal attack (that I'm a "hater") by replying with several far more aggressive insults. Poor fellow. Too bad your limited skill set as a football analyst also prevents you from following the comments of professional NFL analysts virtually all of whom consider Love a bust.
Dzehren
April 24, 2022 at 08:16 am
How can Love be a bust when he only played in 1 game?
If Love was on this draft, he'd be a top 10 pick.
gsd3
April 24, 2022 at 04:52 am
Was Burks left out intentionally? He is the guy I would prefer over all the others. He seems to be the best after the catch, blocking in the running game, etc. Speed is on a par with Davonte Adams. Big, tough guy. Did it all against SEC competition.
I would like to see Burks day 1, Tolbert day 2, and Kevin Austin day 3.
HaroldDrake
April 24, 2022 at 05:27 am
scsc
Dzehren
April 24, 2022 at 08:15 am
Hopefully Jameson Williams from Alabama falls to the Pack.
He will be a #1 WR in the NFL. GB could then add another WR on day 2.
Slim11
April 24, 2022 at 09:02 am
RE: OSU WRs Wilson and Olave
I’m uncertain as to who made the other better. Both are a little small and better suited to be in the slot. Over time, Wilson seems to be a little more productive. Wilson seems to possess the intangibles and work a bit harder than Olave. Personally, I would take Wilson over Olave but neither with a #1 pick.
glblank24
April 24, 2022 at 11:21 am
From this read, Watson and Williams offer the most upside which imo should be the highest consideration if Gutey wants to take a flyer on a Wideout in round 1.