The Green Bay Packers overhauled the wide receiver position during the 2022 offseason. All-Pro Davante Adams was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders while Marquez Valdes-Scantling departed as a free agent, signing with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Green Bay didn’t seek out established veterans to fill the void, instead using second and fourth-round draft picks on Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs. Sammy Watkins was signed in free agency, as their strategy was a risky one.
It ended up backfiring as the Packers passing offense was not overly productive in 2022. Despite having Aaron Rodgers leading the way, the lack of chemistry and experience burned them.
Heading into the 2023 offseason, there is a chance that the Packers once again see some changes in the wide receiver depth chart. Allen Lazard is hitting free agency and veteran Randall Cobb could be on the move as well.
At the end of the season, Lazard gave the impression that he would be exploring free agency and likely moving on. But, things could certainly change over time and that is what Jason Burgos of Sportsnaut believes will occur.
They have predicted that Lazard will remain with the Packers, re-signing with the team on a three-year, $26 million deal. The Iowa State product proved that he can handle a larger role in the offense as a pass catcher in 2022, catching 60 passes for 788 yards and six touchdowns. The receptions and yardage were both career highs.
Retaining Lazard should be important to the Packers because whoever is under center needs a reliable pass catcher to target. If Cobb is not retained, he is the longest-tenured pass catcher on the roster and can help the younger players develop with his vast knowledge of the offense.
In addition to his improved pass-catching, Lazard is also an elite run blocker. He is an integral part of their success on the ground and losing him would be a huge blow in that area of the team’s game.
