Five reasons why Green Bay Packers will win NFC North in 2018
2. Additions at tight end
The Packers needed help at tight end, and that’s exactly what they got this offseason.
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Gutekunst’s first big signing as general manager was Jimmy Graham, who signed a three-year, $30 million deal. The 6-foot-6 tight end gives Aaron Rodgers a big-time target. Graham is effectively a wide receiver, and will be difficult to defend, particularly in the red zone. A Rodgers-Graham connection could be a lot of fun to watch.
But Graham isn’t known for his blocking. That’s where Marcedes Lewis comes in. Lewis is an excellent blocking tight end, and was a smart signing by Gutekunst last week.
Lewis can catch passes, too. He won’t take on a significant role as a receiver any time soon, but he gives the Packers another red zone target. Lewis proved last season he can still be a valuable receiving option with a three-touchdown performance in London against the Baltimore Ravens.
Between Graham, Lewis and Lance Kendricks, the Packers have depth at tight end, something they have lacked for a number of years. Kendricks needs to improve on last year, but in the second half of 2017 he was the team’s No. 1 tight end. Now he’s third on the depth chart.
The Packers should be excited about their two new additions at tight end.