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.