NFL Draft 2021 rumors: Packers ‘love’ receiver Kadarius Toney
There’s a lot to love about Kadarius Toney’s game and it’s easy to see why he would be a great fit in the Green Bay Packers‘ offense.
If Toney is still on the board when the Packers hit the clock with the 29th overall pick, would they consider drafting him?
Well, it sure seems it’s a possibility. According to Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network, the Packers “love Kadarius Toney and his play-making ability”. As a result, Pauline has Toney going to the Packers in the first round of his mock draft.
Toney could be a game-changer for the Packers’ already-dominant offense. Austin Gayle of Pro Football Focus ranked him second among all wide receivers in the class when its comes to yards after the catch. This is an area Green Bay needs to upgrade.
What Toney would bring to the Packers’ offense is versatility. Think about how Matt LaFleur used Tyler Ervin on jet sweeps, out of the backfield, and in the slot. He moved Ervin around to keep defenses guessing.
Toney’s versatility would allow LaFleur to use him in many creative ways. Get the ball in his hands and he will make plays.
NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah spoke about his versatility and drew comparisons to San Francsico 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and he sees Toney “playing the same role” in the NFL.
Toney finished with just under 1,000 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in only 11 games for Florida last season.
Green Bay’s future at wide receiver is uncertain beyond 2021 with almost every receiver currently under contract set to hit free agency next year. The team could have to make significant changes at the position next offseason, so it would make sense to get a head start in this year’s draft and bring in a receiver or two.
Not to mention, there’s plenty of room for improvement at the position right now. The Packers should’ve drafted a wide receiver a year ago in what was a deep class. Fortunately, there’s a ton of receiving talent available again this week.
Toney is one of the best receivers in the class. The Packers would need to be willing to use a first-round pick to get him. But considering his versatility, explosiveness, and fit in LaFleur’s offense, Toney could become the Packers’ first early-round pick at wide receiver in years.