The development of third-year pro Juwann Winfree and the rise of rookie Romeo Doubs are giving Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers a little more confidence in the depth of his wide receiver room entering the 2022 season.
Behind expected veteran starters Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb and Sammy Watkins, Winfree and Doubs are stepping up and making plays for Rodgers through the first two weeks of training camp.
“I will say, between 88 and 87, there’s been a lot of positive things that makes you feel good about the depth we could have in that room,” Rodgers said Tuesday.
Rodgers and the Packers needed a few receivers to take a step up and solidify the room.
Second-round pick Christian Watson remains on the PUP list while recovering from knee surgery. Amari Rodgers, a third-round pick in 2021, remains an unknown after a disappointing rookie season. Malik Taylor only just returned to practice in a red non-contact uniform because of a shoulder injury.
For the second straight summer, Winfree has been steady and reliable. And he’s stayed healthy, providing a terrific opportunity to finally stick on the 53-man roster.
Rodgers said the young players – specifically the rookies – are still making mental errors, but he’s impressed by the effort and how fast they’re all playing each day. Doubs, in particular, has been a standout during camp, helping put himself into position for a legitimate role come Week 1. He’s displayed speed, route-running chops and an ability to win the ball in the air, all key components to playing the position at a high level in the NFL. Getting the mental part down – mastering the offense now, and not repeating mistakes while on the field with Rodgers – is a top priority.
Another key will be special teams. Rodgers emphasized the importance of the backups – No. 4-6 on the depth chart at receiver – playing special teams for Rich Bisaccia, who is attempting to turn around the third phase for Matt LaFleur’s team in 2022. Amari Rodgers and Doubs could be returners, while Winfree is taking reps on coverage units during camp.
Roster spots are still available to be won at wide receiver, but Doubs is positioning himself to be a key player for the passing game, while Winfree keeps improving while earning Rodgers’ trust. No. 87 is all but a roster lock, and No. 88 isn’t far behind.
