Packers wide receiver search goes on as Jordan Matthews joins Patriots

The Green Bay Packers’ search for a new wide receiver continues as potential target Jordan Matthews reportedly signs with the New England Patriots.

Matthews had visited with the Packers last month.

The 25-year-old wide receiver drew interest from around the league, but is reportedly on his way to New England, just days after the Patriots traded away Brandin Cooks to the Los Angeles Rams for a first-round pick.

Adam Schefter of ESPN had the news:

General manager Brian Gutekunst has been active in his search for wide receiver help this offseason. According to Mike Kaye of First Coast News, the Packers were part of the bidding war for Allen Robinson. Kaye noted that Robinson’s decision came down to the Packers and Bears.

I’d say Robinson made the wrong call, but that’s beside the point.

It’s hardly time to panic in Green Bay. The offense is in good shape.

Pro Bowler Davante Adams leads the way. With a full season of Aaron Rodgers, Adams could be set for his best season to date in 2018. Randall Cobb and Geronimo Allison are both talented receivers. And don’t forget about the addition of Jimmy Graham.

With 12 picks in the upcoming draft, Green Bay will have a number of opportunities to add another pass catcher or two.

Ideally, the Packers will select a receiver on Day 2 or 3 who adds an element of speed and forces defenses to respect the deep pass downfield. Jordy Nelson was that guy in 2014, but the offense has lacked a true deep threat in recent years.

The hope was speedsters Trevor Davis and Jeff Janis would have developed into that role. Davis still could, but Janis is now a member of the Cleveland Browns.

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Matthews is a good addition for the Patriots. It will be interesting to see how much his one-year deal is worth.

For the Packers, the search at wide receiver continues.