Packers: Why Amari Rodgers can be the X-factor on offense

It is no secret that the Green Bay Packers will have a new look to their wide receiver corps this season.

To say that the losses of All-Pro Davante Adams and elite speedster Marquez Valdes-Scantling are key would be an understatement.

The Packers will be looking to veterans Randall Cobb, Allen Lazard, and Sammy Watkins, as well as rookies Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and possibly Samori Toure, too.

The one player I did not mention is neither a rookie or an established veteran. Second-year receiver Amari Rodgers will be the X-factor of this unit. The former Clemson Tiger is looking to put a bumpy rookie season behind him and make himself a reliable option for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Packers receiving/passing game coordinator Jason Vrable said on Thursday that Amari Rodgers is preparing for a huge bounce-back sophomore season.

"“He’s already going to look faster and look stronger than he ever did,” Vrabel said.“(Randall Cobb) bumped me the other day and was like, ‘Yo, you can feel it from him.’ And I just smiled and was like, ‘It’s just the start right now. We’ll see where he’s at when the pads go on and the lights are on.'”"

Amari Rodgers only had four catches for 45 yards last season and also struggled returning kicks and punts. However, sometimes the struggles can be the best thing for a young player.

It’s a wake up call. You have a lot to improve upon, which can definitely be a good thing. By the looks of it, Rodgers appears to be in a much better place. Part of the issue last season in the wide receiver room was that Rodgers sat behind Davante Adams, Marquez-Valdes Scantling, Allen Lazard, and Randall Cobb.

Adams absolutely dominated most of the targets and with good reason. But now, the unit is more balanced and well-rounded. Rodgers is predominantly a slot receiver. He is learning behind his friend and soon-to-be 12-year veteran Randall Cobb.

Every receiver is different. Some come in right off the bat and explode as a rookie like Justin Jefferson. For others, it doesn’t come until Year 3 like Cooper Kupp.

Amari Rodgers is already playing different. His football IQ is in a different place. His skills have reached another level. He’ll have more opportunities in 2022.

So, look for a much-improved season from Amari Rodgers in 2022.