The year is 2020. Amid the uncertainty of empty stadiums, bubbles, and temporary rule changes, Aaron Rodgers was winning his third MVP award after becoming unstoppable in Matt LaFleur's offense.
Tyler Ervin became an important piece to that puzzle, carving out a unique role in LaFleur's system. Swervin' Ervin initially came in to help a struggling return game, but he ended up becoming a valuable gadget player on offense.
LaFleur had Ervin catch screens, run jet sweeps, and do a little bit of everything. Even when the ball didn't go his way, the Packers would use Ervin in motion to create mismatches or, at the very least, help Rodgers uncover clues about the defense's coverages.
That year, Ervin had 151 total yards on offense and 216 return yards, but his importance went beyond the numbers. However, after his contract expired that offseason, the Packers surprisingly moved on.
Enter Skyy Moore. He could bring back the Swervin' Ervin role in 2026.
Skyy Moore can become an important chess piece for the Packers in 2026
It's clear that the Packers' primary reason for signing Moore in free agency was to help fix their underwhelming return game. He can undoubtedly help in that regard, having averaged 11.6 yards on punt returns and 27.5 yards on kick returns last season.
But his impact can go beyond that. LaFleur uses Jayden Reed in motion a ton, but Moore's arrival gives the Packers another option.
Orbit motions. Jet motions. You name it. LaFleur can get creative with his newest gadget receiver. It will only help an offensive line coming off a disastrous season (and facing many of the same questions this year), and the uncertain depth at running back.
"I do think Skyy's got more in the tank on offense as well," general manager Brian Gutekunst said in March. "I'll be interested to see how Matt (LaFleur), once he gets to know him, how he sees him and how he'll use him on offense."
Moore has previously been a useful weapon for the Kansas City Chiefs. In his first two seasons, he caught 43 passes for 494 yards and a touchdown. But he was primarily used as a pass-catcher. LaFleur can lean further into Moore's versatility and unlock new areas of his skill set.
The Packers' top four at wide receiver is set: Reed, Christian Watson, Matthew Golden, and Savion Williams. They are locks to make the 53-man roster. Moore's special teams value may secure his spot on the 53, but he can end any doubt by also offering value on offense.
LaFleur used to talk about the "illusion of complexity" with his scheme, and motion is a big part of that.
It's why Moore could perfectly fit the Tyler Ervin role and become far more than just an upgrade on special teams.
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