Packers: 5 players who had breakout seasons in 2022
Which five players had breakout seasons for the Green Bay Packers?
In the 2022 season, five breakout players for the Green Bay Packers have made a name for themselves, despite the team’s struggles.
5. Jarran Reed
Concerns have been growing over the weak run defense with accountability falling on the defensive line.
With that being said, former Seahawks defensive lineman Jarran Reed has proven to be a solid addition to the Packers defense. With 29 tackles, three sacks, and one forced fumble this past season, Reed could be part of the solution.
A breakout performance from Reed is exactly what Green Bay needed to rebuild defensively.
He is now a free agent.
4. Quay Walker
Adjusting to the NFL came easily for Quay Walker with his natural ability to dominate the line of scrimmage. Being able to sniff out the plays and respond accordingly makes him such an asset.
While the defense needs a lot of work, Walker’s impressive rookie season is promising with 75 tackles, two sacks, and three forced fumbles. It is a no-brainer for the Packers to keep him around for a while as he has the potential to be a top-tier linebacker.
3. Romeo Doubs
Wide receiver has been the number one position of concern for the Packers, given Davante Adams’ departure. Romeo Doubs was one of Green Bay’s biggest draft picks at the position. Though Doubs has experienced some rookie moments, he had a breakout NFL season with 42 receptions, 425 yards, and three touchdowns. Not too shabby for a rookie.
Route-running is a strength for Doubs. Aaron Rodgers was impressed with his talent. Once Rodgers started to trust Doubs, more targets were awarded.
Development and experience are key factors for Doubs to have a successful NFL career. The future is very bright.
2. Christian Watson
The wide-open dropped pass in the game opener against the Minnesota Vikings made many people question the acquisition of rookie wide receiver Christian Watson.
But Watson silenced the doubters, making 41 receptions, 611 yards, and seven touchdowns this past season. Not only is Watson effective in the passing game, but the running game as well. Several end-around plays worked in the Packers’ favor because of Watson’s speed and versatility.
He is an excellent playmaker who has a nose for the end zone. Watson could be Rodgers’ number one target next season. With continued development and hard work, Watson will become a top NFL wide receiver in a short amount of time.
1. Keisean Nixon
Enough cannot be said about returner Keisean Nixon. He has truly been a game-changer this past season.
Words could not describe how terrible special teams were before Nixon. Muffed kicks/punts, fumbles, bad punts, and poor coverage led to disaster. Changes had to be made.
The idea that one player could make such a positive difference was ludicrous at the time. But with Nixon’s play, special teams was heading in the right direction. He led the NFL in kickoff returns, kickoff return yards, kickoff returns of at least 50 yards, and finished with over 1,000 kickoff return yards.
Being named a first-team All-Pro and scoring a 105-yard touchdown was also notable.
Green Bay has something special in Nixon, as shown by his breakout performance, and he is very well deserving of a long-term contract from the Packers.