How would the #Chiefs begin to replace superstar Tyreek Hill? Sources say #Packers free-agent WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling is on his way to Kansas City today for a visit. No deal imminent, but a logical option to help fill the void. Speed for speed.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 23, 2022
The Green Bay Packers might soon lose another pass-catcher.
Free agent receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling is in Kansas City visiting the Chiefs on Wednesday, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
The Chiefs could be on the verge of trading away receiver Tyreek Hill, making Valdes-Scantling a potential replacement option as a deep threat for Patrick Mahomes. Hill wants a new contract but negotiations with the Chiefs have stalled.
The Packers have attempted to keep Valdes-Scantling after trading Davante Adams to the Las Vegas Raiders, but outside competition might be enough to push his price outside of Green Bay’s comfort range.
Valdes-Scantling is a far cry from Hill, a four-time All-Pro, but they have comparable straight-line speed. The Chiefs would be banking on Valdes-Scantling to help replace some of Hill’s production down the field. In 2020, Valdes-Scantling led the NFL in yards per catch and catches of 40 yards or more.
Over four seasons in Green Bay, Valdes-Scantling caught 123 passes for 2,153 yards and 13 touchdowns.
It’s possible Valdes-Scantling’s visit to Kansas City is an effort to force the Packers to pay his price to keep him, so a return to Green Bay can’t be completely ruled out at this point.
If Valdes-Scantling departs, the Packers would be left with Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb as the team’s top two receivers. Odell Beckham Jr., Julio Jones and Jarvis Landry are among the biggest names still available at receiver in free agency. The Packers would also be expected to use a high draft pick to add help at receiver.
