How Can the Packers Wide Receiver Corps Turn It Around?
The Packers' offense has been significantly inconsistent this year. Whether due to Jordan Love being out with injuries, different play calling, or the addition of Josh Jacobs, the wide receivers have not been as explosive as they were last season. The offense's struggles last year were similar to the first half of the season, but with some adjustments, they could fix their problems, have the offense step it up, and put the team in competitive positions. Although they fixed similar issues last year, can the team overcome the same obstacle this year?
The wide receiver corps is the same as last year, so there should be no reason why the Packers' receivers are struggling to produce or score a similar number of points. Last season, the excuse was that it was Love’s first year, the team needed to build chemistry, and they were young and unproven. Now that this team has a playoff appearance, a playoff win, and lots of experience under their belt, no one is going to give them an excuse for struggling. Yes, Love has had some injuries, and Malik Willis had to start two games, but these receivers have the talent and capabilities to perform better than they have this season. Jayden Reed had an excellent first three-game stretch, during which it seemed he was developing into a superstar, but he has been nonexistent in the past few games. Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, the team’s two most reliable receivers, have been the most solid for the team. Doubs was suspended for a game due to personal reasons, and then Watson still had to deal with injuries, which limited his time on the field. Bo Melton, a solid receiver who came out of nowhere, has been plagued this season by fumbles, drops, and poorly executed plays. Dontayvion Wicks, wide receiver four, has had great stretches with two touchdown games at a time and then turns into Kadarius Toney with his drops. Most notably, they dropped multiple passes against the Vikings and Lions and took points off the board for the Packers. The season is already halfway over, and this team needs to get it together to make a run in the playoffs.
The offensive coordinator, staff, and players can work on their problems during the bye and return to their offensive fluidity. One overlooked problem for the Packers is the need for a true number-one wide receiver. Aaron Rodgers had go-to targets in Jordy Nelson and Davante Adams, but Love still needs to find his. Last year, it was acceptable not to have a number one, but for Love to grow into a superstar, he needs a receiver he can rely on no matter what. Right now, it does not seem that any of Love’s targets can step up and become that guy. Either because of injury concerns, lack of targets, or play calling, the Packers might have to explore options in the offseason or get these players to step up their game and develop. The Packers' wide receiver corps can turn it around, but they need to change their game plans, rethink their approach, and regroup to make a push.
