The Packers Young Receivers Show Potential Early
By GilMartin
The Green Bay Packers entered the 2023 NFL season with one of the youngest receiving corps in the league. None of the wideouts on the roster had more than one year of experience playing in the NFL. They were also playing with a quarterback who entered the season with one career pro start. But so far, through the first two games, most of the young receivers have shown they have the potential to develop into quality NFL players.
Romeo Doubs is the most experienced receiver on the Packers roster who played in the first two games this year. He is tied for the team lead with six receptions and has two touchdown catches.
Doubs has developed great chemistry with quarterback Jordan Love during the offseason and in training camp. He appears to be Love’s go-to receiver on third downs and in situations where he really needs a clutch catch.
Doubs has played a limited number of snaps in the first two games this season due to a hamstring injury. Clearly, we haven’t seen the former Nevada star at full strength yet this year. Hopefully, he will be healthy enough to play a full game shortly.
Rookie Jayden Reed also has six catches so far this season. The second-round pick out of Michigan State has been the team’s number one slot receiver. Reed leads the team with 85 receiving yards. He scored his first two career touchdowns last Sunday in Atlanta and showcased his elusiveness.
Reed has excelled on a pattern where he starts in the slot, makes a fake and runs towards the sideline. When he expands the number of routes he feels comfortable running, he will become even more dangerous.
Reed has been targeted 13 times so only having six catches indicates he still needs to work on gathering in contested passes and to make his route running more precise, but Reed has demonstrated his potential to get open and to make big plays.
Fifth round pick Dontavion Wicks made his first start against the Falcons and scored his first NFL touchdown. Wicks missed significant time during training camp with injuries and that slowed his early progress. But the former Virginia star flashed his ability in Week 2 when Christian Watson was out of the lineup and Doubs was on a play count.
Tight end Luke Musgrave has also had his moments in his first two NFL games. The second-round pick out of Oregon State has five catches in those contests for 75 yards. He has five catches in seven targets and has shown himself to be a willing blocker although he still needs to refine his technique.
Musgrave would likely have scored a touchdown in the season opener in Chicago had he not stumbled over his own feet on a long pass from Love. The play still went for 37 yards and set up a Packers score a few plays later.
In his first two games, Musgrave has demonstrated his rare combination of size and speed which makes him potentially the Packers best downfield weapon at tight end since Jermichael Finley’s career ended prematurely due to injury a decade ago.
The Packers are still waiting for Watson to make his 2023 season debut. The second year wideout is struggling to get into the lineup after suffering a hamstring injury before the season opener.
Watson is the Packers most dangerous deep threat and had a strong finish to his rookie season after struggling earlier in the year. The North Dakota State alum scored seven receiving touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns last season.
Teammates and coaches have been impressed by Watson’s work ethic this offseason. If he can improve his route running and the consistency of his hands, he has the potential to become an elite receiver in this league.
All these players have flashed big-play ability and have showed the potential to be at least solid NFL receivers. As they and their inexperienced quarterback gain more experience and develop more chemistry with each other, they can improve their production and take their game to another level. How quickly this happens will go a long way toward determining how many games the Packers win in 2023 and beyond.
You can follow Gil Martin on Twitter @GilPackers
Comments (50)
mnbadger
September 21, 2023 at 11:31 am
Kind of like the Field of Dreams for WR's: if they're available, the results will come!
If they can't play, potential is useless.
Keep working on your bodies and technique fellas, the nfl is a tough business, littered with unrealized potential.
Put in the work - the rewards are there for you personally and for us as fans.
GPG!
GregC
September 21, 2023 at 11:36 am
Nice to see an article on this, as I thought Dontayvion Wicks was the biggest positive from the Atlanta game. We haven't seen much from Malik Heath or Samori Toure yet, but if Wicks establishes himself as WR #4, we will be in great shape at the position. He appears to have some versatility too.
Packers2020
September 21, 2023 at 11:43 am
GregC
Wicks has more talent and more upside than Toure. Heck, I think Heath has more upside than Toure.
Toure may be a hard worker but I just do not see him sticking on this team next year. Especially, if we draft another WR in the middle rounds.
JMHO.
GregC
September 21, 2023 at 01:06 pm
I wouldn't discount Toure yet. He's a 7th round pick in his second season. (Donald Driver, another 7th round pick, did not emerge until his fourth season.) After reports of Toure taking a step up at the beginning of training camp, he seems to have faded or maybe just been passed up by others, but he is still very much in the mix.
When Watson comes back, it will be interesting to see which WR does not suit up for games. Last week I guessed it would be Wicks, but not anymore. Now I would guess Heath, because Toure seems more versatile than Heath.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 21, 2023 at 04:20 pm
Why draft another WR to replace Toure? He'll be in year 3. Let him continue developing, and have him as depth. We'll likely need that depth. Same with Melton and Dubose.
They already got rid of Jeff Cotton and Cody Chrest, both with 4.38 speed. There's some reason for that. 8 in the WR room including PS is not too many unless they want to trade for a more pressing need, in which case I doubt Toure is the first on the chopping block.
God forbid the injury bug continues to strike, we'll be in better shape than most teams I think.
We have pressing needs for next year's draft. At least A and interior O line.
packerfanroy
September 21, 2023 at 05:54 pm
Very true. If you're a 2nd year player drafted in the 7th and rookies who were drafted earlier than you are getting more game time instead of you its not a good sign for your future with the team. With that being said it's a long season and things happen so Toure can still turn it around but right now its not looking bright.
jannesbjornson
September 22, 2023 at 02:59 am
He had to come down with the catch in the fourth quarter. A key play to sustain the drive. Part of the 3 and outs story.
Coldworld
September 21, 2023 at 12:38 pm
Heath and Toure have been used primarily for blocking. Heath exclusively till the one pass in the 4th on Sunday. Toure has 3 catches for 24, was overthrown on the long pass in the first game that would have been a TD, and of course dropped a tough one on contact with the ground on the last throw last week.
I don’t often compliment LaFleur, but I do think the way he has divided up tasks into “bite sized” chunks has been a huge help to the offense. No one is being expected to master everything—finally. I know that’s part forced on him, but he has embraced it. That probably changes a bit as time goes on, guys get more acclimatized and we get more healthy (hopefully).
SicSemperTyrannis
September 21, 2023 at 04:23 pm
Agreed. This is a strength of MLF, or something he's learned recently. I've been down on him lately, but am quick to give him props when and where he deserves it.
Continuing in bite sized assignments too long would cause telegraphing to the opposing defense, but walking into a season like this is ok. Our guys should learn their roles quicker than an opponent does.
Packers2020
September 21, 2023 at 11:41 am
I love the potential of Reed and Wicks. Doubs will be fine and hopefully a great #2 WR in the future.
I am a little worried about Watson and those hamstring injuries. This is two years in a row now and I think he will be out this week as well since he has not practiced fully yet.
The positive is it is giving Wicks and Reed more looks and more experience in the offense.
Coldworld
September 21, 2023 at 12:45 pm
Doubs was heavily covered on Sunday on most plays. As long as he is, it helps others. If we can get others back, and as Reed establishes a reputation, teams are going to have to pick their poison and the passing O will open up.
Packers0808
September 21, 2023 at 02:27 pm
With what the receivers have shown is Watson really needed, never being available. Maybe the trade for Taylor would be good seeing it seems that Dillon is as of now pretty much a failure.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
September 21, 2023 at 03:31 pm
Trading Watson would be a huge mistake imo.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 21, 2023 at 04:25 pm
That would suck if #9 starts out by missing three games. Isn't that his total from last year?
jannesbjornson
September 22, 2023 at 03:04 am
Davante had his ankle issues his second season. Injuries happen.
chaka
September 21, 2023 at 11:48 am
Watson is too fragile to play in the NFL
Coldworld
September 21, 2023 at 12:49 pm
Yes, we all knew Rodgers was made of glass in 2006 and look where sticking with him got us. We totally wasted Brohm.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
September 21, 2023 at 03:31 pm
Peak snark from C-Dub. I love it.
splitpea1
September 21, 2023 at 12:16 pm
They should get plenty of chances to continue fulfilling their potential with Jones out. Dillon has been a big disappointment and we can't run wide with him anyway. Unless they're going to give Taylor and Wilson more carries, the Packers may be better off being more pass-happy.
Reed has looked very impressive and Doubs is solid, but we need more time to evaluate the rest of them.
We're still probably not done adding to the WR room with Watson's status always being up in the air; while obviously very talented, his availability can't be counted on, and it always feels like a special bonus if can actually suit up. The Packers are going to need another infusion of offensive skill players if they expect to beat the better teams in the NFL, not just the also-rans.
SicSemperTyrannis
September 21, 2023 at 04:27 pm
There's tons of depth at WR. Adding more makes no sense combined with not trading #9 for Jonathan Taylor.
More snaps to #31 Wilson makes so much sense it's a must.
T7Steve
September 21, 2023 at 01:08 pm
Wish we could steal some of their plays for the new TE. Helps the line and will help the WRs in the long run. Please get the TEs more involved! Three targets a game?
SicSemperTyrannis
September 21, 2023 at 04:29 pm
Exactly. Can't possibly target Musgrave too much. It's just a question of can he get open? Was he open in any of the last three drives Sunday?
Handsback
September 21, 2023 at 01:28 pm
These young receivers have a lot of potential. This year that potential has to honed into performance. Once they perform on a consistent basis...we'll see how good they are. I'm a little leary on Watson...hamstring injuries on a fast receiver will quickly grow old with NFL coaches.
Just MHO
crayzpackfan
September 21, 2023 at 02:13 pm
He has also had a concussion too I think? Last year? Hopefully he doesn't turn out to be one of those talents that just fades into the NFL background while quietly always injured on 5 different rosters over the next 6 years until he just can't make a team anymore..
NAW!!!! He's gonna ball out this year!! GPG
vin0770
September 21, 2023 at 02:00 pm
Yeah I hate that word…potential. Means something is missing. Like WR1 and WR2 being healthy and available. You know being a professional also means preparing in the lengthy offseason to be physically able to answer the bell…OFTEN!
So was last year a waste because they learned what?
vin0770
September 21, 2023 at 02:01 pm
Yes I’m bitter today 😤
GregC
September 21, 2023 at 03:01 pm
Well, they are already pretty good. Their QB has the highest passer rating in the league, with 6 TDs and zero interceptions. If they were a veteran group, we would not be unhappy with them. Potential just means that they can be even better.
PatrickGB
September 21, 2023 at 08:12 pm
Yes he does. And I like his future. But he is still only completing 55% of his passes. Perhaps with the growth of his young receivers it will inch higher.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
September 21, 2023 at 03:35 pm
Potential is just another word for high ceiling. It doesnt mean anything's missing. It just means they havent reached their ceiling yet. How many 1st or 2nd year players actually reach their ceilings? To expect that is as unrealistic as it gets. I know this much. Watson is a freak athlete who changes this offense dramatically just by being on the field. Hes worth being patient for.
Packers0808
September 21, 2023 at 02:29 pm
You know the most refreshing things about these receivers, we actually have QB WILLING to work with them. {Hint} {Get it yet Stockholder}
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
September 21, 2023 at 03:37 pm
Its really nice not having to worry about whos offense they're running either.
packerfanroy
September 21, 2023 at 06:42 pm
As soon as the Packers drafted Love he was gonna be the starter at some point, even if the FO had to force Rodgers out. Guaranteed unless injury. No one will ever convince me that the Packers FO and coaching staff wanted Arod taking those off season reps away from JLove. Trust me, the Packers were absolutely fine with Arod not being there. Probably let him know it. "Hey Arod, take the summer off you've earned it. Our QB of the future can take all those reps." And Arod didnt need to be there. First pass of the year...right on Watsons hands....
Packers0808
September 21, 2023 at 10:37 pm
Who the hell is talking last year, obvious reference to Love who wanted to be here and to think you really believe someone to Rodgers to stay away is pathetic thinking.
packerfanroy
September 22, 2023 at 12:01 am
If you honestly think the Packers wanted Arod to take reps in the off season while JLove sat on the sideline and watched I don't know what to say.
Packers0808
September 22, 2023 at 07:18 am
If you honestly thought the Packers would want to lose and not have Rodgers work with them for timing etc, they would never have given Rodgers the crazy extension to just sit around and lose, just like he did. What else would be the reason for his crazy contract to get timing with those he would play with being delusional.
packerfanroy
September 22, 2023 at 07:29 pm
Why would the Packers put all of their hopes for success of the season on VOLUNTARY workouts???
'Coaches are quick to point out that Rodgers’ absence provides more reps and experience for back-up, and presumed heir to the throne, Jordan Love.'
Quarterback coach Tom Clements. “Aaron doesn’t need reps at this time of the year”
Ill take QB Coach Tom Clements point of view over yours EVERY... FUCKING.... TIME....
You HATE Rodgers so much it makes all of your arguments pointless and brain dead.
Packers0808
September 23, 2023 at 10:32 am
Who ever said Rodgers did, it was the young new raw WR's who needed the work with him. Darn some people are thick! Hate Rodgers nope, just didn't like his work ethic toward young up coming and learning players. And I am impressed that Mommy lets you swear.You are just another lame excuse for what you think is a Packer fan. Risible!
packerfanroy
September 24, 2023 at 02:06 am
They got that work in TC, voluntary OTA's is for learning the playbook when it comes to rookies.
JLove gives Rodgers alot of credit for his work ethic at helping younger players so it looks like you are wrong on that too.
My 'mommy'??? Try not acting like you're 9. Funny that you think I care what your opinion of me is. "Oh no....Packers0808 doesnt think I'm the right type of Packer fan..." BFD...
Oh and as for the hating Rodgers part, I apologize. I got all those quotes from a CHTV article and in the comments you were bitching about Rodgers man bun in all caps. I thought it showed that you hated Rodgers but I guess it means you just get all freaked out and worked up about other men's hairstyles/looks... too each their own, my bad....
Packers0808
September 24, 2023 at 08:19 am
You should quit thinking then all your problems of showing stupidity would disappear. If you like man buns then get one. Because a man bun is disliked doesn't correlate to not liking the person who wears it. Sure have an understanding problem, go back to Mommy and have her explain that and how it works. Risible.
fireball
September 21, 2023 at 03:07 pm
Yeah, I'm thinking the same thing regarding the possibility that the Packers might have five really good receivers; inexperienced, of course, but with some seeminly possible talent rarin' to go. And so, like another writer asks, Why not turn Love loose and see if he can turn the Packers into a passing and receiving team. . . especially since the Packers running game is just one guy who can maybe only play one-half or one-third of the time because of injuries. So turn Love loose. Let him and the receivers fly!
SicSemperTyrannis
September 21, 2023 at 04:35 pm
Air raid is the wrong move now IMHO. Interceptions hurt. Several skills JL10 has not learned yet, including throwing the ball away and when taking the sack is the best option. His tendency is to attempt throws he will not connect on. Very lucky there hasn't been an interception yet.
More touches to #31 Wilson, Musgrave and Sims in at the same time, go for the high probability plays and keep a balanced attack. That's our winning formula but have to get the OL sorted. Can't afford to continue keeping Zach Tom at OT.
packerfanroy
September 21, 2023 at 06:30 pm
Because most of our receivers can't fly... they block. They get open deep because the team runs a play action, the receiver acts like he is gonna block for the umpteenth time, the defender bites on the run fake while the receiver slips behind him. They dont get open because of speed, which they dont have. Yes, you have A MVS/Watson speed guy and A Adams/Doubs possession guy but then you have a couple of Lazard types which fit the scheme but dont fit into a prolific passing attack. MLF's goons....
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
September 22, 2023 at 02:05 pm
I don't know....
Reed has 4.37 speed
Musgrave has good speed for a TE
As I stated months ago...the Packers intelligently drafted WR's to fit specific roles within the offense. This year more so than in past years IMO. They have quality back-ups at each WR & TE position. The exception is they have no one similar to Watson with speed on the 53 to back him up. Maybe eventually Melton could be viable. Do not sleep on Wicks as he is talented. See lot of similarities in Doubs, Wicks, and Heath's game.
packerfanroy
September 22, 2023 at 06:41 pm
I was just pointing out that we run a PA scheme and have a WR group that was drafted to fit that offense. The Packers can't just throw that playbook out and go to a dynamic, spread em out, throw the ball all over the place offense because we have a shiny new toy at QB. Look at the Packers when they went from a 4-3 to 3-4. Guys who were good in the 4-3 struggled in the 3-4 and it took some time to get the right personnel for the scheme. Thats what changing our offense would take. Most players need to be in the right scheme for their skill set in order to succeed.
MooPack
September 22, 2023 at 04:41 pm
??? This is the fastest set of receivers the Packers have had in a good while.
Perhaps we should have kept Cobb, Lazard, and Lewis.
packerfanroy
September 22, 2023 at 06:44 pm
I understand the FO moving on from Cobb and Lazard given the rebuild on offense we are going through. I wish we would have kept Lewis. Lewis as the inline, Musgrave as the 2nd TE with Kraft as the 3rd TE and Sims on the PS seems like a better TE group.
LambeauPlain
September 21, 2023 at 07:03 pm
Hamstring injuries linger and unfortunately the treatment is to let them heal. I believe Casey Hayward was bit by the hamster in his second year in GB. He tried to come back and finally went to IR to finish a mostly lost season.
But he came back in year 3 and played very well...all the way to a big K with the Chargers and an all pro berth (why TT let him get away without even offering was a surprise as CB became a huge hole for the next few years).
I don't think Hayward had hamstrings issues after that 2nd season. So there is hope Watson can bury that hamster for good.
fireball
September 23, 2023 at 04:11 pm
I remember the Hayward thing. Big loss, as it turned out.
stockholder
September 21, 2023 at 07:56 pm
IMO- The Packers are still looking
for a leader for this Wr corp.
The Curse of Matt Millen was Wrs.
TT drafted Wrs to fit the scheme.
Not to mention explosion off the LOS.
So who fits the scheme, or the MM curse?
I don't believe any fit TTs criteria.
My belief is Gutey only took a Wr
to stretch the Field.
And when none of them got off the LOS.
He drafted Reed for the slot.
The change from TT s drafting; is motion.
So instead of a Adams. We got Reed.
Because MLFs game is motion.
And that might be just too much for
Dobbs, Toure, and anyone else.
The guy that goes over the middle
will be the guy that sticks.
fireball
September 23, 2023 at 04:09 pm
Interesting. Yeah. " The guy that goes over the middle will be the guy that sticks. "