Packers: Tonyan should still have big role when Adams returns

Robert Tonyan should still have a big role in the Packers offense even when Davante Adams returns.

With Davante Adams and Allen Lazard both out in the Green Bay Packers‘ Week 4 win, it was tight end Robert Tonyan who stepped up with three touchdown catches.

Adams could be set to make his return this weekend against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but that doesn’t mean Tonyan should be forgotten about. His performances over the past three games show why he needs to be a key part of this passing offense moving forward.

Tonyan has been a consistent receiver for Aaron Rodgers in recent weeks, catching all but one of his 14 targets so far this season. He’s turned 13 receptions into 173 yards and a team-best five touchdowns, including a score in each of the past three games.

Tonyan impressed early last season before a core muscle injury kept him out for a while and limited him when he returned. He’d eventually need surgery in the offseason.

But the 26-year-old has bounced back, winning the tight end competition at training camp to secure an important role on offense. And whereas second-year Jace Sternberger has struggled to make a big impact, Tonyan has made the most of each opportunity that has come his way.

Moving forward, there’s no reason to stop giving Tonyan snaps on offense. He can block and he’s a great pass-catching tight end, having previously played at wide receiver at college. Tonyan is a big target at 6-foot-5 and he’s a player Rodgers trusts. That’s the key to keep getting targets.

Allen Lazard will remain out for a while yet, so Tonyan is a pass-catcher the Packers should continue to lean on.

Adams will take a lot of the attention from opposing defenses once he’s back in the lineup, but Tonyan can continue to be a key contributor in this offense.

His breakout season is well underway, and it’s only just getting started.