Green Bay Packers: Countdown to kickoff – Nine Nods
By Jamie Wright
Aug 29, 2015; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers tight end Kennard Backman (86) catches a pass as Philadelphia Eagles safety Ed Reynolds (30) makes the tackle during the third quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
TE – Kennard Backman
The Packers will most like keep three to four tight ends, of which Richard Rodgers and Andrew Quarless are a permanent two.
Even with a Packers familiar face, Justin Perillo pushing the pile, the most likely candidate to take over the third TE spot on the depth chart, is 2015 sixth round draft pick, Kennard Backman.
Though little has been said of Backman throughout training camp, he had a very impressive 20-yard reception that highlighted his skills against the Saints. On a designed roll-out, Backman showcased his separation and hands skills to a team that is desperately looking for a dominant tight end, the likes of which hasn’t been seen since Jermichael Finley.
Behind Quarless and Rodgers, Backman will get some “learning time” this season. He probably won’t see a single snap; he may not even be active for most games.
However, the Packers will keep him around, keep investing time and energy in making him into a versatile TE that can provide mismatches against any defense.