Regular season finale puts the spotlight on one Packers’ position group with intriguing upside as snaps and targets become available
Green Bay Packers have some interesting decisions to make ahead of the Vikings game.
The Green Bay Packers are expected to sit key players against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, and there are specific possibilities that look intriguing thinking about if they may or may not play. One of those is at wide receiver, where the depth will look for more snaps and a higher target share — something uncommon based on how the Packers’ offense is built.
Right now, the 53-man roster has six wide receivers. Dontayvion Wicks suffered a concussion against the Baltimore Ravens and probably will not play. Christian Watson is one of the most impactful players on the team, so he should rest.
If these veterans don’t play against the Vikings, there will be massive opportunities for the other players — especially because Romeo Doubs and Jayden Reed might even be active to complete the numbers, but shouldn’t see much action either.
Big opportunity for the two high-valued rookies
Without many snaps for the veterans, first-round rookie Matthew Golden will have the biggest chance of his rookie season. After struggling to receive a meaningful target share throughout the entire year, Golden has a realistic shot at leading the offense in targets versus the Vikings.
Third-round rookie Savion Williams returned against the Bears after missing three consecutive games, but was inactive versus the Ravens again. He’s dealing with a foot injury for most of the season, and that’s a consideration for his role as well.
The other option is Bo Melton, who’s officially listed as a cornerback, but primarily has played at wide receiver and on special teams.
Potential roster moves
The Packers can make two elevations from the practice squad for gameday, and also make moves to free up additional slots if needed.
Presumably, the Packers could elevate rookie Will Sheppard from the practice squad. He was promoted to the 53-man roster and was active against the Lions, but didn’t play a single snap. After the game, he was waived and returned to the practice squad.
The other wide receivers on the practice squad are fellow undrafted rookies Isaiah Neyor and Jakobie Keeney-James.
The Packers have 53 spots plus two elevations, and 48 of the 55 players have to be active on gameday. Therefore, many players will be active, even if the plan is to rest them. Even with those considerations, the regular season finale is a massive opportunity for the young receivers to show their value.
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