Packers 2020 post-draft position review: Wide receiver
Have the Packers done enough at wide receiver?
A historically deep wide receiver class. Lots of talent in free agency. If there was ever a year to need a wide receiver or two, this was it.
Well, the Green Bay Packers needed a receiver but didn’t draft one.
Should the Packers have done more this offseason? Here’s our post-draft review of the position.
Currently on the roster
Davante Adams, Devin Funchess, Allen Lazard, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Equanimeous St. Brown, Jake Kumerow, Reggie Begelton, Darrius Shepherd, Darrell Stewart, Malik Taylor
Offseason moves
The Packers made one notable offseason move, signing Devin Funchess to a one-year deal worth $2.5 million. He replaces Geronimo Allison, who signed with the Detroit Lions in free agency.
Improved from 2019?
While the Packers’ depth chart at wide receiver looks mostly the same as last season, swapping Allison for Funchess can be viewed as an upgrade. Allison has shown potential in moments but failed to make an impact last season. Funchess, when healthy, has proved he can be a reliable option.
Key player
Davante Adams.
After failing to add an early-round draft pick or make a big-money move in free agency, a lot will fall on Adams’ shoulders again. The three-time Pro Bowler is Aaron Rodgers‘ most trusted target and he’s hauled in 40 touchdowns over the past four seasons.
Rodgers might not have much choice but to keep firing Adams’ way if the other receivers don’t step up.
Position outlook
The Packers have good depth, but many of those players would best fit as the number three or four options on the depth chart. Adams is a superstar, but Green Bay lacks a consistent number-two possession receiver or a big-impact deep threat with elite speed.
Unless they make another move this offseason, they’ll be hoping Marquez Valdes-Scantling can make a big jump from year two to three, or Equanimeous St. Brown can make an impact after returning from injury. They’ll also need Funchess to stay healthy and become a reliable target for Rodgers. The same goes for Allen Lazard after he impressed in 2019.
But can any of these players become a consistent number two receiver? There are lots of “ifs” and “buts” at receiver for the Packers.
Many receivers on the roster also have a similar skill set. The Packers lack a true slot receiver or a deep threat. Signing Taylor Gabriel would be a good short-term move. Another option would be to explore trades around the league.
The Packers are lucky to have a star receiver on the roster in Adams, but there are lots of questions at this position after GM Brian Gutekunst failed to take advantage of a deep draft class.