Packers: Jake Kumerow a player to watch at training camp

Just like last year, Jake Kumerow has the opportunity to make a big impact at training camp.

Last offseason, after the Green Bay Packers had used three of their draft picks at the wide receiver position, few believed Jake Kumerow had a realistic chance of making the 53-man roster.

But Kumerow was one of the standout performers throughout training camp and during preseason, forcing the Packers to keep him on the roster. Had it not been for a bit of bad luck with an injury suffered while celebrating a touchdown in an exhibition contest, Kumerow could’ve made an impact when injuries hit at wide receiver.

The Packers were without Geronimo Allison for most of the season, and Randall Cobb also missed time due to injury. But Kumerow, too, was out of action on injured reserve. He returned late in the season to play in five games, finishing with 103 yards and a touchdown.

For receivers to have success, they must be on the same page as their quarterback. For Kumerow, that’s no problem. He has Aaron Rodgers’ trust, and that means Rodgers will continue to throw the football his way in important situations.

Kumerow will have competition for spots on the roster, even with Cobb leaving this offseason. Davante Adams, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Allison are all roster locks. Equanimeous St. Brown will almost certainly be on the roster, too.

Competing for the final couple of spots will be Kumerow, J’Mon Moore, Trevor Davis, Allen Lazard, Jawill Davis, Teo Redding, and Darrius Shepherd. But competition is nothing new for Kumerow — it’s a similar situation to last summer when he consistently made plays.

But this is a new year with a new head coach and a new offense. Kumerow will need to replicate last year’s performances to earn a roster spot and snaps on offense.

But when given an opportunity, he’s played at a high level. Kumerow has Rodgers’ trust, and if he continues to impress in training camp, he could be the fourth or fifth receiver in Matt LaFleur’s offense this season.