Rashee Rice NFL Draft Prospect Profile and Scouting Report
SMU WR Rashee Rice Scouting Report - 2023 NFL Draft
By BrianMaafi
Name: Rashee Rice
School: SMU
Year: Sr
Position: Wide Receiver
Measurables: 6’0 ½", 200lbs.
Stats:
(Courtesy of Sports-reference.com)
General Info:
Rashee Rice was a three-star recruit via 247 and Rivals, where he had 51 catches for 841 yards and five TDs as a high school senior. As a true freshman he had 25 receptions on 403 yards and one TD. In 2020, Rice’s Sophomore season, he made seven starts in 10 games taking over for the injured Reggie Roberson after he tore his ACL, catching 48 balls for 683 yards and five TDs. For the 2021 season, when the former Mustang was moved into the slot to accommodate Reggie Roberson coming back, he still started every game and lead the team in catches (64) and TDs (9). Rice was named All-AAC honorable mention for the season. For the Texas native’s final season in Dallas, he led the FBS in receiver yards per game and was third in the nation in total receiving yards. Rice had a career high 193 yards against Maryland and was a Biletnikoff semifinalist and invited to the Senior Bowl.
Positional Skills:
Strengths
Rice brings good size and long arms to the field, and that can be seen in his large catch radius. He can be a physical, punishing down field blocker, putting defensive backs in the dirt. The former Mustang has a really solid release package and adding his quick feet to that makes him dangerous off the snap. The former slot receiver is a smooth accelerator who can sneak up on defensive backs. Due to Rice’s experience playing both in the slot and on the outside he brings a versatile game, where he can play anywhere on the field. He extends his arms to make the catch, he does not body catch. Once he has the ball in his hands he immediately looks to get yards after the catch. Rice is a major weapon in the red zone, due to his size, strength, length, and leaping ability. He shows quick feet post catch and can shrug off attempted tacklers if they go high. Rice shows no fear going over the middle of the field and has the frame to take the punishment, his frame looks like there is still some growth potential.
Weaknesses
While not slow, Rice does not have elite speed. An issue with drops creeped up in 2022, where he dropped nine balls on the season. The Texas native could also improve on cutting out some false steps at the top of his routes, especially when he makes his cuts. The former Mustang still needs some work on his ability to sustain blocks, DBs will break his block from time to time and end up tackling the runner. He was not asked to run a large variety of routes at SMU. When he is trying to get open versus press the record-setting wide receiver needs to do a better job of using his arm length to create separation.
Fit with the Packers:
Rice would be a great fit with the Green Bay offense. Although he may lack the elite speed that a lot of fans want, he has almost everything else you would want in a high quality #2 receiver. He does have sneaky speed though, and can stack DBs so he will still make some downfield plays here and there. The former Mustang also fits the LaFleur offense almost to a T, he has good size, long arms, is a physical blocker, versatile, and gets YAC. Rice, Watson, and Doubs would create confusion for a lot of defenses because all can play in any spot and they all can block. The Packers can just get him the ball in space and let him work.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
__________________________
Comments (91)
MooPack
February 22, 2023 at 06:49 pm
Love Rice. This isn't the same WR class as last year. Too many smurf, or close to smurf types. I think the Packers pass on those and won't take Quentin Johnston or JSN in the 1st. Yep, the streak will continue. Instead Rice in the 2nd is a definite possibility. I'd take either or both of TE's Darnell Washington and Luke Musgrave over Rice, but if both are gone, take Rice. His quickness and 40 time at the combine will dictate better where he is valued.
stockholder
February 23, 2023 at 06:29 am
The comparison is Cobb.
mrtundra
February 24, 2023 at 07:45 am
I would not mind it if the Packers took both the TEs you mentioned, Washington and Musgrave, in this draft. Two top TEs, who can block, fits this offense very well.
jannesbjornson
February 24, 2023 at 09:50 am
One guy is a blocking TE and the #2 guy on Georgia's depth chart. Musgrave is coming off knee surgery and I don't know how some mock him into the first round based on Speculation he will contribute. He caught 47 passes for 2TDs over a four year period. His speed is appealing, but you want a guy who was productive in college and not have to develop a guy and hope he shows up in three years.
golfpacker1
February 24, 2023 at 07:58 pm
Washington catches the ball really well. They just didn't use him enough. I think he will be a star. Find the highlight video of his one handed catch and run. Very impressive. Knee injuries are no where near as big of a deal to heal and rehab as they used to be. Musgrave and Kuntz are on Feldman Freak list and have reported 40 inch hops. Also both run under 4.6 40's. I would pick any of the 4 big name TE in the 1st at 30 or 31, IF we traded back to get there and scored 2 extra early picks. I also like Josh Whyle-Cinncinnati. All he does is score touchdowns. 4th or 5th round.
stockholder
February 22, 2023 at 07:11 pm
How fast can he run?
First reports said 4.3.
And a first round grade.
Doubt he falls out of top 50.
golfpacker1
February 22, 2023 at 07:55 pm
I really liked this guy in my early mocks, but at the senior bowl he still ran fast but was 2 inches shorter than advertised. 6'0 instead of 6'2. Still a very good receiver but not a 1st rounder. We need saftey or edge in round 1. My favorites after 1st round are Hutchinson-Ia State, Mingo-Ole Miss, A T Perry-Wake Forest. Later rounds Nathaniel Dell-Houston, Tyler Scott-Cinn. and Andrei Iosivas-Princeston. All three are 4.3 fast guys. My late round sleeper is Trea Schropshire-UAB. He has averaged 24 YPC over the last 3 years. 6'3 and 4.4 40.
BirdDogUni
February 22, 2023 at 08:50 pm
Do yourself a favor and check out Dontayvion Wicks Highlights... Dude is a baller...
LLCHESTY
February 22, 2023 at 08:59 pm
Really like him in the 4th. Natural football player that can help out on STs while he learns the playbook.
BirdDogUni
February 22, 2023 at 09:20 pm
I don't think he'll make it to the 4th round if he runs 4.40 like predicted.
I like Elijah Higgins too... If he runs a 4.44 like predicted, at 6' 3" 228lbs, I'd love to see him a Packer as well...
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 12:02 pm
If we are talking about good day 3 receivers, Jonathan Mingo of Ole Miss is the guy I would target. He is like a cross between AJ Brown and Deebo Samuel - I really like him. He can be used as a gadget/RB player like Samuel, but also is deceptively effective down the field. Big hands, great YAC potential, good on contested catches, and is an exceptional blocker.
Elijah Higgins is also good. Others I like are Trey Palmer of Nebraska (for a speedy downfield slot guy), Dontay Demus of Maryland, and Andrei Iosivas of Princeton (like a C-Wat clone, almost)
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 02:40 pm
2nd team ALL SEC for Mingo. He is a guy to watch for the stock car derby offense such as Shanahan and LaFleur want to run.
stockholder
February 23, 2023 at 06:27 am
I wouldn't take a safety rd. 1.
It's edge. And the pass rush first.
They still might have to move on
from P.Smith & Gary injury.
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 09:12 am
Do they know how to run the route tree?
splitpea1
February 22, 2023 at 07:47 pm
Anyone who could help us move the chains and score in the red zone would be welcome with certain Packer WR departures expected. Raw because of the limited route tree, but a legit #2 would be nice once he develops.
LLCHESTY
February 22, 2023 at 08:33 pm
Like this?
https://twitter.com/ByJoshCarney/status/1627753043725848609?t=3yTg9nuprP...
splitpea1
February 22, 2023 at 08:38 pm
We'll take him, too.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 11:59 am
Darnell is a BEAST.
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 03:02 pm
*
LLCHESTY
February 22, 2023 at 08:27 pm
4 round mock. Packers trade Rodgers to the Raiders for 2nd and 4th round picks this year and a conditional 1st in 2024 that becomes a 3rd if he doesn't play in 2024.
31.
Antonio Johnson
S Texas A&M
trade icon
GB
45.
Gervon Dexter
DT Florida
GB
57.
Dalton Kincaid
TE Utah
trade icon
GB
63.
Byron Young
EDGE Tennessee
trade icon
GB
102.
Jammie Robinson
S Florida State
trade icon
GB
116.
Isaiah McGuire
EDGE Missouri
GB
2024 NYG 2nd
2024 NYG 4th
2024 BAL 4th
From the Raiders:
38.
Darnell Washington
TE Georgia
109.
Andrew Vorhees
OG USC
Reached a little for Vorhees but he puts guys on their backs and the Packers need some aggressiveness on their OL.
BirdDogUni
February 22, 2023 at 10:00 pm
PFF Simulator
R1: 13 Bryan Bresee DL Clemson
R1: 15 Myles Murphy OLB Clemson
R2: 43 Darnell Washington TE Georgia
R2: 45 Kayshon Boutte WR LSU
R3: 78 Kendre Miller RB TCU
R4: 116 Brandon Joseph S Notre Dame
R5: 151 Dontayvion Wicks WR Virginia
R5: 171 Trey Dean III S Florida
R7: 234 Tavion Thomas RB UTAH
R7: 237 Wanya Morris OT OU
R7: 244 John Ojukwu OT Boise State
R7: 256 Harry Miller C Ohio State
R7: 259 Jake Moody K Michigan
Hematite
February 23, 2023 at 07:35 am
I'd sure like to see Jake Moody in a Packers uniform.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 11:56 am
We need another kicker stud after Mason Crosby. I'd be willing to spend our top 5th rounder on him considering the importance of a clutch Kicker.
Leatherhead
February 23, 2023 at 09:48 am
You, and LL, don't seem to be very big fans of Offensive Linemen.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 11:54 am
I am a big fan of the OL, but I personally think we already have many quality starters and backups. Myers aside, I feel that Jenkins, Runyan, Nijman, and Tom are all very good offensive linemen with the potential to form one of the league's best tandems. Caleb Jones, Rasheed Walker, and Royce Newman are all good backups.
If Tom can bulk up in the offseason and after Runyan and Nijman are more familiar with their new positions (which they didn't practice in the offseason), we can have a very, very good offensive line. Myers is the only question mark, but I think we have to give him at least one more year considering this was basically his rookie year. I would support taking a Center in the 4th-5th rounds though.
BirdDogUni
February 23, 2023 at 11:56 am
Well, in my defense I did draft two OTs.
I have no problem with Gutey going OT early. (If we have two first round picks, I actually assume one of them would be an OT.)
I don't actually think Gutey will draft a WR in the 1st round, but it would be fun to have plenty of weapons for Jordan Love if in fact AR12 is traded and Love is our starter.
In the Mock above, Myles Murphy fell into our laps and he was the highest rated player available, but there were two OTs Gutey could've picked instead. (He probably would have too...)
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 12:04 pm
idk about that. I think Gutey would be ecstatic to get another Rashan Gary if he could. In real life, though, I would be astounded if Murphy fell out of the top 10.
WestCoastPackerBacker
February 23, 2023 at 12:23 pm
Trade Rodgers to the Raiders? How do you think he and Josh McDaniels would get along? Not happening. Would have to be a HC that will let Rodgers run whatever offense he wants to run, like Tampa Bay did for Brady and Denver did for Peyton.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 06:08 pm
Hackett, perhaps? Jets?
mrtundra
February 24, 2023 at 07:48 am
The Jets, I've read, are courting Carr.
PackyCheese500
February 24, 2023 at 09:44 am
Rodgers is still their first choice, though
PhantomII
February 22, 2023 at 09:15 pm
I like a couple guys over Rice...but I think he could become a possession type chain mover a lot like Adams but a notch below. I think Doubs also is in this category but needs to find his hands again. It kind of irks me that AR is the way he is with youth. AR sat for multiple years, then played poorly for 1.5-2 years before he was doing well. That's honestly 3-5 years of non performance or underperformance. I wish things were different.
LLCHESTY
February 23, 2023 at 09:04 am
Rodgers played poorly early in his career as a starter?? What year(s) was that? That's nonsense. The defense sucked in 2008 but it was easy to tell they made the right decision letting Favre go. Are you talking 2009 when he threw for 30 TDs and 7 Ints? That's a bad year?
WestCoastPackerBacker
February 23, 2023 at 12:12 pm
AR is the way he is with youth? Then how did GB end up with two rookie WRs in the top 7 in the whole NFL rookie class for TDs in 2023? Watson and Doubs weer # 3 and #4 in YPC in 2022. They were 5th and 11th in yards for the season. All this despite both of them missing time with injuries and Watson missing much of camp.
These are the facts. The friggin narrative about Rodgers being hard on young WRs is just clickbait. You think Brady doesn't have high expectations for young WRs? MVS had a great rookie year for a late-round pick.
But keep telling stories about how awful #12 is.
mnbadger
February 23, 2023 at 12:24 pm
the real question is how good the rookies could have been if they'd gotten the chance to work with ar12 during ota's and preseason and had he not given them the bird after their first drop?
yes they put up numbers in their rookie years, but how much fatter could those numbers and our win total have been with some guidance, patience and trust from the team captain?
GPG!
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 02:43 pm
Ask Watson. He was out nursing a knee injury, next.
greengold
February 22, 2023 at 10:08 pm
Agree with that last bit, Phantomll, 100%.
As for Rice, smooth route running aside, he seems too run of the mill. Not a burner. Not consistent. No real size/length. Doesn’t seem to fit the Packers prototype.
LLCHESTY
February 23, 2023 at 09:07 am
Well you'd be 75% wrong. He did sit for three years but never played poorly early in his time as a starter.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 01:37 pm
GG,
Totally agree!
People need to step back and look at what we already have on the roster for WR's. What are their skill set, and what does the FO need to do to supplement the current WR's? This is what most people do not consider.
My big question is....why do the Packers consistently struggle picking up short yardage first downs, or TD's? A big part of it is drafting non-difference makers. Guys who in short yardage situations who do not have the ability to create separation quickly. Rice or a Tillman are not quick, twitchy players who can create separation like I'd like to see in those situations.
BA4Packers
February 23, 2023 at 08:02 am
The Packers have Bo Melton in their squad.
9.24 elite RAS. 4.34 40. Elite measurables across the board. If he had Christian Watson size he would have a 9.9 RAS. When Watson and Melton trained together it was rumored they both ran 4.2 40’s. Imagine all that speed on the field. Your jitter bug slot is already on the team.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 09:47 am
Kind of forgot about Melton. Maybe we see him do more.
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 02:57 pm
He was pegged as a return guy. Limited route tree for Maryland, but he gets up the sideline fast.
PFN Player trades Unknown. Reload, never Rebuild.
#15 Broderick Jones Bulldogs OT surprisingly, he was available.
#38 Uzomah K-State Edge I moved a( #1 and#5 2024)
#47 Kincaid Utah TE #45 to Wash for 47/118
#78 Jaylon Jones A & M CB Douglas goes to safety
#116 Benton Badgers DT inside rush
#151 Cory Trice Purdue CB Get Better
#155 Ronnie Bell Michigan WR ( 118 to Tampa for 155/175/181/196)
#171 Durham Purdue TE
#175 Rodriguez K-tuck RB
#181 Ali Gaye LSU Edge
#196 Henderson Mich State S
#225 Haener Fresno State QB
#234 Jaylon Thomas SMU OT
#244 Noah Daniels TCU CB/S
#256 Bumper Pool ARK LB
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 03:09 pm
I believe Melton was from Rutgers, actually
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 03:28 pm
Sorry, you are correct. Mocked him in the 7th. Seattle jumped on him. Yes, the Other Rutgers guy was still there, but he went with Ford and Wallace.
They had a good offensive group.
MooPack
February 23, 2023 at 03:33 pm
#256 Bumper Pool ARK LB
Best name in the draft.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 03:40 pm
Straight line speed does not necessarily equate to quick stop and go. None of those guys are anything like Jay Flowers. Not remotely...check it out if you are not sure what I mean by quick twitchy WR.
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 05:27 pm
Highest drop numbers (24) of the top 20 WRs rated for the '23 draft.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 06:47 pm
What were Watson's numbers coming out of college.......?
Also, realize the types of throws Jay is getting thrown at him in congested areas. Young man has quite the future IMO and I would not hesitate to take him. Again, just like with Tillman which draft position vs value? Don't see Flowers available in round 2 unless he fell and it was within the first few spots of round 2.
HarryHodag
February 23, 2023 at 08:21 am
The QB who threw all those passes at SMU...Tanner Mordecai...is transferring to Wisconsin for his senior year.
The Packers might look at a receiver late in the draft, but they need help at safety, tight end and edge rusher, all of those positions have really gifted athletes to pick early.
I have faith that the three receivers they picked up last year will be ready to go this season so it isn't a priority.
If I were the Packers this year I would entertain offers to get more picks beginning in the second round and try to restock with younger players from lower rounds.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 09:46 am
Rashee Rice is great, but Tennessee's Cedric Tillman I think would be an even better fit for the Packers. 6'3, 215 lbs and more of a downfield threat. Tillman is my #1 receiver to target in round 2, and Rashee would be my second choice
Leatherhead
February 23, 2023 at 11:59 am
PFF Simulation. 2 Rounds.
Rodgers to the Jets for their first 3 picks, including #13.
#13. Q Johnston, WR. 20 year streak comes to an end.
#15. Branch, S. We need a starting safety and he's the best in this draft.
#43. D.Washington, TE. This guy will improve our offensive line blocking and be a legitimate receiving threat.
#45. A. Adebawore, DL. Versatile, an athletic freak, and Northwestern smart.
#74. Still deciding
#78. Still deciding.
I'd like to an an Edge and an OL with these two picks. I haven't decided who I really like at those spots yet. But I definitely like these first four guys at these first four spots.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 02:50 pm
Use the 3rd rounders to trade up into round 2. That way we can have a higher pick and not two busts. If not, use them to trade down or into next year. I don't want to be picking in the 3rd round.
golfpacker1
February 24, 2023 at 08:09 pm
No to Branch. He is more like Savage, only not as fast. We would do better with his teammate Battle. I like Q Johnston also but pick 13 is worth alot in draft capitol. We could get Perry, Hutchinson, Mingo, Wicks, or Tyler Scott later. They are all the same, big and fast. Also i will add my draft crush Andrei Isovias from Princeton, 6'3 210 lbs and they say he might be the fastest player in the draft. And he can block. Low 4.2's
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 12:41 pm
Here is Mock 1.0: Send Rodgers and Bakhtiari to the Jets for picks 13, 43, and a 2024 conditional first. In addition, send Preston Smith to the Giants for pick 160
13: EDGE Lukas Van Ness, Iowa - lots of athletic upside, like Rashan Gary had, and my favorite edge prospect outside the top 10. His power rush is something to behold
15: Trade to Steelers for two seconds (picks 32 and 49)
32: TE Dalton Kincaid, Utah - very fluid receiver who reminds me so much of Travis Kelce. Packers need to do whatever they can to get their hands on this guy. Not exceptional at blocking, but he's getting better.
43: WR Cedric Tillman, Tennessee - this guy just screams "Packers receiver" to me. He is everything we look for - size (6'3), weight (215), blocking, good on contested catches, and even threatens downfield too.
45: DT Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin. He has great power and leverage, and should be able to make an impact in run defense right away. He was also has great pass-rushing upside, too. Having another body on the DL to move around will help to free Kenny Clark to move around, like Chris Jones of the Chiefs does.
49: S JL Skinner, Boise St. - He can be the physical, tone setting SS we need on the back end of the D. He is excellent in run D and can really lay the wood. He is very instinctive (which I consider to be very important), and has a knack for making plays, snagging 4 picks this past season. He has all the intangibles that make great Safeties.
78: Traded to Texans for picks 103, 136, and a 2024 5th-round pick
103: WR Jonathan Mingo, Ole Miss - a cross between AJ Brown and Deebo Samuel, Mingo offers great YAC value, is deceptively effective as a downfield threat, and blocks exceptionally.
115: S Quindell Johnson, Memphis - offers great versatility, is a sound tackler, and has good ball skills, getting 4 picks for Memphis this past year.
136: LB Ivan Pace, Cincinnati - undersized, but great as a blitzer and in coverage. De'Vondre Campbell is 30 and Krys Barnes is a free agent, so it may be good to fortify the ILB spot
149: K Jake Moody, Michigan - I know this is high for a kicker, but when you think about all Mason Crosby has done for us over the years, with his clutch-ness and reliability, getting him a great successor suddenly seems important.
160: C Ricky Stromberg, Arkansas - Good to give Josh Myers some competition. He has high end physical traits and was very effective as a run blocker.
170: TE Payne Durham, Purdue - offers good value as a blocking TE, contrasting Kincaid's skill set.
217: OG Cedrice Pailant, Marshall - good physical traits and developmental potential
224: WR Jadon Hasselwood, Arkansas - has good size and speed. Gadget potential and a downfield threat as well.
233: DT Robert Cooper, Florida St. - another rotational guy specializing in run D
239: LB Robert Beal, Georgia - good in run D and can play both ILB and OLB.
243: S John Torchio, Wisconsin
What do you all think?
mrtundra
February 24, 2023 at 08:02 am
A kid I like this draft is Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois. Ross Uglem compares him to Jaire Alexander. Depending on what the Packers do with Rasul Douglas(i.e. moving him to Safety), Witherspoon could be a fine addition to our secondary. We would have to trade up to get him, though. If we are trading up, for anyone, this draft, I'd hope it would be for Brian Branch, Safety, Alabama. The kid is the best Safety in the draft and it's a position of need for the Packers. Edge, TE, Safety and maybe a WR are all in play, for the Packers, this draft. It would not surprise me if Gute went for an OT, either, depending on what happens to Bakhtiari.
jannesbjornson
February 24, 2023 at 10:02 am
Battle was the All SEC safety from 'Bama. There are ball hawks later in the draft. Witherspoon was a goto cover corner for Illinois. Always around the ball but light of frame and no help with run support, or he would be injured.
I like Porter,Jr and Gonzalez. Bigger CBs.
golfpacker1
February 24, 2023 at 08:15 pm
Love the idea of sending Bakhtiari out also. He is getting injury prone like Bulaga was. Better to move him now when he is still worth a 1st or 2nd. Also how about using a 7th round pick on the Michigan kicker or the kid from Missouri, Mevis is really good too. Mother time has caught up there too. Kicking the ball into the end zone is almost as important as making 85% of your field goal. Crosby has been great but it is time.
Leatherhead
February 23, 2023 at 12:55 pm
I like Tillman a bunch, but I'm thinking #43 is kind of early for him.
You don't seem to want to add any premium offensive linemen, so I guess having Hanson and Newman as our primary backups is fine with you?
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 01:22 pm
Tillman is a 3rd round WR!
He is the 2nd coming of Lazard with just a smidgen more speed. Hey....I loved Lazard the lunch box wide receiver but Tillman is not a game changer. He is not going to change & improve our offense. Neither is Rice!
It is time for the FO to be smarter and more creative. It is Jordan Love time!
:)
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 02:41 pm
Do we need any premium offensive lineman? Even if we do, is the need greater than those at S, DT, OLB, TE, and WR? Jenkins and Runyan is an excellent guard duo, Tom and Nijman has potential to be a top tackle duo (people forget how good Nijman was in 2023), and we'll see about Myers.
I think Newman is fine as a backup Guard, and there's a reason he isn't starting. Hanson I don't like, which is why we need a better backup Center/Guard, along with Rhyan.
Also, I have seen Tillman mocked in some drafts in the early 30s. If we draft our favorite prospects earlier than anyone else would plan to, we can ensure we get them. If there are better players available, we take them.
Leatherhead
February 23, 2023 at 08:05 pm
So, as long as nobody gets hurt, we're fine, but then we're going to have to put backups who aren't very good in, or we're going to have to draft guys who are good enough to start, because that's what they'll be when people get hurt.
IMO, you dress 9 OL on game day, and they all better be good enough to start, because guys get hurt over a 17 game season.
We have 5 competent starters: Bakhtiari, Jenkins, Runyan, Myers, and Tom. We might be able to bring back Nijman.
That still leaves us need #7, #8, and #9. Right now, that's Newman, Hanson, Walker, Jones, Rhyan, Tenuta...guys I wouldn't really like to see starting for a four or five game stretch.
We need help on the offensive line. Premium help. Guys who are ready to step in and play, not projects who might pay off. Nothing will derail our season faster than poor line play. Look at last season.
PackyCheese500
February 24, 2023 at 09:41 am
Okay, but what about positions where we don't even have competent starters, like Tight End or Safety? The only TEs we have for next year are Deguara (who isn't even a true TE - more of a FB) and 2 PS guys. At safety we have Savage, Carpenter (who's predominantly a STs guy), and some PS guy.
Then there's the DL and the OLBs. Unlike the OL, the DL and OLBs are constantly rotating out. We need at least 1 additional D-lineman added, and if Preston Smith gets cut or traded, we will need a new starter at OLB.
Let's be glad we have 5/6 competent starters on the OL! We don't have any at TE or S, and the DL/OLBs are in bigger need as well!
Also, I think that at least one of Caleb Jones and Rasheed Walker can develop into a premium swing Tackle. Rasheed was supposed to be as high as a 4th round pick, according to some sites. We have lots of talent at Tackle - it is not our greatest need. IOL is a concern, but we have to get Myers competition in the later rounds. At Guard, the jury is still out on Rhyan, and Newman is okay as a BACKUP.
I agree it is good to have 2-3 premium backups on an OL, but we should first focus on getting competent starters at each position before we focus on competent backups.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 01:20 pm
Guys like Rashee Rice and even a Cedric Tillman are #3 WR's (think Lazard clones). Sure the Packers can always use guys like this but I think many here are short-sighted and only looking at the player, but over-look what the Packers really need at WR. You read draft reports on a player....big deal! What do the Packers currently have at WR, and what is needed to supplement and round out the WR corps? Neither Rice or Tillman are fast (they are bigger bodies with average speed), with Tillman essentially the 2nd coming of Lazard. Good decent players but no difference makers. The Packers need to inject some difference makers on offense!
What do the Packers currently have at WR on next seasons roster? Watson, Melton, Toure & Doubs. They have very good outside straight line speed, and they have a good possession receiver in Doubs. What the Packers desperately need in my humble opinion is a significantly better Lazard. Someone who is big, fast, and who can make those contested catches. Someone who can high point catches consistently. Specifically, this is what the Packers do not have and what they desperately need in order to pick up those 3rd downs, and be effective in the red zone is one...Quentin Johnston. They also need Mayer at TE. As a receiver Johnston has similar size to Lazard, and plays with a nasty attitude, but he is significantly faster & more athletic. Johnston is going to win nearly all high point passes (see his videos). Lazard was used much like a TE at times in addition to a WR. Mayer while not as good of a move TE as Kincaid & Musgrave is the best hybrid TE in the draft, which is why he will be drafted high. Good hands but he is both an inline/move TE. A physical guy who will make those contested catches for 3rd downs and in the red zone. He can also block!
Johnston and Mayer are what the Packers do not have and what they need if you want the Packers offense to significantly improve vs being the same. Guys like Rice and Tillman are not difference makers and it will be the same old...same old! Yes, Johnston might be gone when the Packers turn comes up but the Packers are going to have a choice whether they draft Mayer, Kincaid, or Musgrave in round 1. I love Kincaid and Musgrave as they are excellent move TE's. However, as I think about the TE pick I am starting to like Mayer more and he is inching up the board because he is that hybrid TE. Not as athletic and speedy as Kincaid & Musgrave (even LaPorta) but brings so much to the table. He will be better overall for the Packers than what Lazard/Tonyan provided.
I agree the Packers need a couple of WR's in this draft and whether or not Johnston is available I'd once again like to have them look at what they do not already have on the rooster. They need to add WR's who bring a different skill set to round out the offense. The Packers already have several speed demons & possession receivers. The type of WR the Packers do not have is that quick & twitchy slot WR such as a Jay Flowers, Nathaniel Dell, Josh Downs, or a Parker Washington. The type of WR the Packers typically do not draft. These guys can also double up as a KR. Guys who can get separation in those short yardage situations for a first down, or TD.
The Packers do not need Lazard and over pay him. Draft one or both of Johnston & Mayer. There are a number of extremely good slot receivers in Flowers, Dell, Downs, and Washington. My advice to the FO is stop doing the same thing over and over and expecting different outcomes. Give me Quentin Johnston at WR, & Mayer (or Kincaid) at TE and I'd be a very happy fellow....though no doubt not nearly as happy as Jordan Love!
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 02:49 pm
I would like that, although I doubt Johnston is available at #15. Mayer I would like to have more, but I doubt the FO will take skill position players in the first round.
Can Zay Flowers or Josh Downs block? There's why they won't be drafted by the Packers, and for good reason. If they can block decently, like Tray Palmer or Jalin Hyatt, then the Packers might get them, and I agree that those would be positive additions to the team.
Just because a guy isn't drafted in round 1 doesn't mean he can't be a difference maker. Greg Jennings, Davante Adams, and Jordy Nelson were all taken in round 2. Watson was a difference maker in round 2. If we can get Tillman or Hyatt in round 2, I will be very happy
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 03:43 pm
Packy,
At 180 pound speed/finesse WR where have you seen him as a blocker? He is a straight line speed guy frankly like Melton.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 03:57 pm
That's what I thought too, although here are his scouting reports:
NFL Draft Network: "He competes as a blocker"
NFL Draft Buzz: "Is an excellent blocker considering his relatively slight frame"
NFL.com: "Willing and effective as a perimeter blocker"
Of course, he will never be a Lazard. However, he adds another speedy downfield element to the Packers, this time in the slot, which also opens up the middle of the field. Considering what he can add to this offense and his excellent blocking for his size, I think the Packers should take a chance on him if he falls to them.
That is why I prefer Hyatt to Addison, Downs, or the other slot guys; it's because of his blocking.
Hyatt + Watson = offensive fireworks
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 04:04 pm
Obviously a talent, but I just think he is too much like Watson & Melton with speed where the Packers need to mix the skill set up. I dont see Hyatt as someone to make contested catches in heavy traffic. Would I be upset with Hyatt? No! Just thinking they could better use that draft pick for a TE like Mayer - Kincaid, or Musgrave. Someone who can use their size and make those tough contested catches. Otherwise, a twitchy/quick slot like Jay Flowers, etc!
At the end of the day....I just want to see draft capital to improve the offensive side of the ball.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 05:29 pm
I see. Tillman is a contested-catch guy, if you want one of those. Doubs also has that sort of skill set too.
Hyatt would be another deep threat to try and improve our deep passing game with Watson - two nightmares to keep DCs alive at night, which would also help open up shorter passes and the run. I see Hyatt as a twitchy quick slot, don't you?
I also think TE is a big need. Kincaid or Mayer would be who I am most happy with. Musgrave has an injury history and doesn't break a lot of tackles - not much play strength.
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 03:17 pm
Tillman had the Lowest drop % of any WR rated in the top20 prospects. He replaces Lazard's snaps. Hyatt took more snaps in '22 due to Tillman's ankle injury.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 03:54 pm
Good point - he was injured most of last season too.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 04:09 pm
Jannes,
I see him as a clone of Lazards, which isnt bad but the question begs...is he a difference maker, or would we better off with say Mayer with the big body?
Of course....it all comes down to where in the draft these guys are available. Mayer much higher likely in round 1, and if I guessed Tillman late #2, or round 3.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 05:30 pm
He is faster than Lazard and more of a downfield threat. He can get separation easier, as he's got better route running and can unjam from man coverage well
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 05:41 pm
I am aware he is a step or so quicker than Lazard. Certainly would take him depending where his value matches up but I'm just thinking he is a 3rd rounder, which begs the question would you take Tillman over Darnell Washington at TE? I consistently see Darnell going around pick #70 give or take a few selections. Darnell is a slightly better athlete than Big Dog and similar in size at 6'7" and 270 lbs.
Frankly, I truly believe the Packers need to get two good TE's in this draft and if it came down to Tillman or Darnell I would go Darnell even if one of the three (Mayer - Kincaid - Musgrave) was drafted in round 1 or 2.
What might you do Packy? Tillman over Darnell, or Darnell over Tillman?
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 06:07 pm
I would go with Washington if we get Kincaid. Kincaid is a receiving specialist, while Washington is a blocking specialist. With Mayer I would go Tillman.
That would be amazing to get Washington though! I would love to have a 270 lb TE on our team!
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 07:01 pm
Me too!
BirdDogUni
February 24, 2023 at 10:06 am
I saw a mock yesterday on NFL.com with Darnell Washington going 28 overall to the Bengals... I saw another with 3 TEs going in the first round and we were the first team taking Musgrave at #15.
Personally, I hope we don't go TE in the first and we're lucky enough to get Washington at #45, but I think he'll go before our pick at #45.
Although, every year someone says, "There's no way he'll be there at such and such a spot..." Doesn't matter what position we're talking about either. They can' all go in the first 3 rounds, so I just pray Gutey has a good plan, things fall into place, and we draft some good FB players.
Sometimes I think Gutey thinks about "value" too much. Other times I wonder WT% he's thinking... To this day I would really like to know why he drafted Myers instead of Humphries? The only thing I can think is it had to do with medical reports from the combine? Or in the interview process? On tape, Humphries was the choice and they say tape never lies, so something had to sway Gutey to pick Myers over Humphries. I would dearly love to know the answer.
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 05:32 pm
He is faster than Lazard, has better hands and comes down with the contested catch. A faster James Jones. Tillman goes early to mid second rd.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 05:49 pm
Meaning you see him as a legitimate #2? I could see that possibly some day. The funny thing is you reference James Jones and earlier I was trying to think of who Rice might be similar to and I was thinking Jones. Who knows!
The problem with taking Tillman with our #45 pick in round 2 is you would be taking him over a bigger need whether TE, Edge, DL, Safety, etc. Not questioning he has talent or he is better than Lazard because I have always thought he was just a little better, but is he truly worthy of the #45 pick over other defensive/offensive needs? I will argue I just do not see him being a big of a difference maker to warrant the Packers taking him at #45 pick. Is Tillman going to beat out Watson or Doub? I don't see it happening! The Packers have a huge hole at TE. I'd prefer one of the three top TE's if one might be available at #45 (Mayer - Musgrave or Kincaid. Maybe Musgrave might slide). Maybe consider Tillman in round #3 at 78, but as I just posted to Packy I think I would go with Darnell Washington (as the 2nd TE for the Pack in draft) at TE if he was still available. We have a huge hole at TE that needs significant draft capital.
PackyCheese500
February 23, 2023 at 06:09 pm
I could definitely see Tillman as a #2 receiver, or maybe splitting the #2 receiver job with Doubs.
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 06:30 pm
He is more consistent than Doubs who will only get better. Yes, Tillman could be the #2.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 06:50 pm
Think missing my point....would taking Tillman at #45 (round 2) to possibly splitting time with Doubs be what the Packers need (depending what happened in round 1) vs an Edge, OL, Safety, TE?
BirdDogUni
February 23, 2023 at 07:07 pm
If I had my choice, I would take Darnell Washington TE Georgia at #45 and hope Dontayvion Wicks is available at 78... (If he runs well at the combine, I doubt he makes it to 78 though...) NFL Draft Buzz is projecting Wicks to run a 4.40 forty and 103 overall... Think Wicks is flying a bit under the radar right now, but the combine could change that quickly for those who aren't pro scouts. Pro scouts already know what they think of him. (Tape doesn't lie.)
Draft Buzz has Washington ranked 43.6 overall, so he might not make it to us at 45...
Musgrave is ranked 46.1 overall.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 09:05 pm
BD,
Good information and great having you jump in with the rest of us draft nerds. :)
Agree a lot can change at the combine coming up. You couldn't get much different TE's between Darnell and Musgrave. Love to have them both for a move TE & an inline TE. Would be a little surprised if Darnell goes that high but shoot.....who knows! He is a little stiff running routes but he does seem pretty athletic for a big guy like that.
PackyCheese500
February 24, 2023 at 09:42 am
I think Tillman at 45 would be good. WR is our 4th biggest need.
jannesbjornson
February 24, 2023 at 10:08 am
You need three solid guys to threaten the defense. If one of your top three go down, then you are compromised and bring in dead weight like Watkins. Get the best players for the spot.
BirdDogUni
February 24, 2023 at 10:20 am
Draft Buzz has him ranked at 66.3 overall... They also have him at 4.50 in the 40. If he runs faster than that in Indy, he could go higher though. I think Gutey shot his wad last year in the 2nd round on Watson.
Our TE position has been a dumpster fire for decades, so it wouldn't surprise me if Gutey were to target the TE position at #45 this year, especially after crapping the bed with Jace Sternberger...
More likely Gutey will target a Safety at #45 though... SMH
golfpacker1
February 24, 2023 at 08:25 pm
There are a bunch of Tillman Type WR in this draft that we wouldn't have to spend a 2nd round pick on. Hutchinson, Mingo, Wicks, Perry, Isovias, Demus, Ford-Wheaton, Higgins. They can't all go in 1st 2 rounds. WR is a need but its about 4th on the list.
jannesbjornson
February 23, 2023 at 06:40 pm
I believe in the trade down into the 20s and secure another two pick. I would not hesitate to send 2024 picks to get into rd two for three shots there. Maybe they move a player for a pick? The TE will depend upon the order from round one. I like Tucker Kraft from watching his games and their playoff game. Kincaid is the best move TE and great hands, but the other guy from Utah is better. A more complete TE for 2024 draft. There are guys in rd 3-5 that can fill in like Schoonmaker and Durham. A blocking TE can be had in rd six. Cannot waste a high pick on a guy who just blocks. I don't buy into the LaFleur bullshit. Mayer would be a solid selection @ #15 if the top OTs and CBs go off the board. He knows the position.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
February 23, 2023 at 06:56 pm
I agree that I really could not care about 2024 picks vs in 2023. Most every rookie needs at least a minimum of a year to develop. Pushing picks into 2024 doesn't excite me, however because of will Rodgers play more than a year, or not there almost likely will require a conditional 2024 pick(s).
My hope is that if Rodgers is traded we get minimum a 1st & 2nd, along with a player in 2023. Example, would be the Raiders providing their TE, Wall along with their #1 & #2. Otherwise, the Jet's we get Corey Davis, and a #1 & #2. Adding Wall would be a game changer going into the draft. I do like Musgrave a lot and see him and Kincaid very similar. I wouldn't care which one the Packers got, however Kincaid will go in round 1 for sure, but Musgrave might slide into early round 2. Assuming the Packers had an extra #1 & #2 from AR my hope is that the Pack would trade up into early round 2 to take one of the top 3 TE's. This way, they could focus with either Edge, WR, Safety, OL in round 1. I'd like to see three very top players picked by the Packers with these three selections.
PackyCheese500
February 24, 2023 at 09:43 am
Rodgers will only yield 2 firsts at maximum. If we want another 2nd we will have to send Bakhtiari as well
golfpacker1
February 24, 2023 at 09:44 am
No to trading up in early rounds and wasteing valuable mid round picks. Packers need to cut bait with Rodgers and end this drama. We wont get the draft hall we would have got from the Broncos(WHAT A MISTAKE!). But it still should at least be 2 firsts and a 2nd with maybe some later picks. There will be a bidding war and if the Jets win they could throw in former Packers draft love interests Denzell Mims and Elijah Moore. That would also solve the drafting a wide receiver problem. I also agree it is time to trade Bakhtiari while he is relatively healthy. We don't need to make the Bulaga mistake again and get nothing for him. Bakh should honestly still be worth a 1st or 2nd round pick to some tackle needing team. Maybe the Jets. No to any wide receivers in 1st round. No to TE in 1st 25 picks. If we get a premium top 15 pick for anybody we trade unless some total stud who was a top 5 rated player at a position (WE NEED) not best player available which is a horseshit way to draft, Trade back with it and trade back with 15 too. Turn it into 5 or 6 1st 3 round picks and reload our roster and fix our broken salary cap. Other WR that fit if we have to draft, Hutchinson-Ia State,Perry-Wake Forest,Mingo-Ole Miss, Iosivias-Princeton, Schropshire-UAB. All probabley available after 2nd round. TE for later rounds definitely Whyle-Cinn, Kuntz-ODU, Mcdonald-Florida ST.Sleeper Kamari Everett-Bethune Cookman.