The 10 Most Important Packers of 2014

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson (87) makes a catch against San Francisco 49ers defensive back Perrish Cox (20). Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

7) Jordy Nelson

Nelson is the Packers’ top receiver and deserves every last dollar of his new contract. His ability to adjust to the ball and make the tough contested catches is up there with the best in the league.

Nelson’s tall frame and long arms make him very difficult to cover, and although he may not have the breakneck speed of the elite wide receivers in the NFL, he’s excellent at reading coverages and gaining separation with superb route running and shiftiness in the open field.

Nelson is a true deep threat in the Packers offense who forces opposing defenses to play conservative with their safeties, which opens things up for other receivers underneath and creates some cushion for the run game.

At this point, there isn’t another Packers receiver that is as much of a threat downfield as Jordy. His ability to also play in the slot makes him invaluable in the Packers offense.