Packers: 3 trade targets before start of training camp

WR Terry McLaurin

The Packers added young talent at wide receiver in the draft with Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Samori Toure, but they still lack a clear WR1 for the 2022 season. Watson may become that player, but likely not right away.

Terry McLaurin could help.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Monday that McLaurin isn’t planning on attending the Washington Commanders’ mandatory minicamp this week.

McLaurin wants a new deal, and he only has one year remaining on his rookie contract.

Perhaps the Commanders will eventually work out a long-term deal with McLaurin, but Packers GM Brian Gutekunst should be on the phone about a potential trade.

McLaurin would solve the Packers’ WR1 problem. He is a phenomenal route-runner and could help Green Bay’s offense immediately.

According to Cynthia Frelund of NFL.com, “McLaurin earned the third most yards of separation on all routes run in 2021”. This highlights just how impressive his route-running is.

The 2019 third-round pick has posted consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. Aaron Rodgers would be the best quarterback he has played with in the NFL, so he could reach another level in Green Bay’s offense.

The Packers would need to pay McLaurin top wide receiver money, but they have the cap space to make it happen. In McLaurin, they would be getting their WR1. All of a sudden, Green Bay’s receiving corps would have sky-high potential.