Cory's Corner: Amari Rodgers Isn't Going Anywhere

His versatility is how Green Bay's 53-man roster could take shape. 

The Packers really liked what they saw in Amari Rodgers. 

They liked it so much that they traded up to take the Clemson wideout in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft.

Rodgers hasn’t really done much as an NFL receiver last year and through five weeks of training camp this year. There are a lot of people that want Rodgers to be cut. 

I got news for you: that isn’t happening.

The main reason why Rodgers is staying is because of his versatility. He not only can play the slot but he can get carries out of the backfield and be a decent third running back. 

With Kylin Hill on the physically unable to perform list as he recovers from a torn ACL last October, the Packers don’t have a legitimate player to keep as a third back. And this season above all others, is going to be very tight when it comes to filling out the 53-man roster mainly because of the youngsters at receiver. 

That’s where the Packers are right now. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst obviously hasn’t liked what he has seen from Rodgers the receiver. But what is the one thing that Gutekunst has stressed since he took over in 2018? That would be versatility. 

And that is exactly what Rodgers brings. The Packers would be able to keep two running backs on the 53-man roster and still hope that Rodgers becomes a viable threat as a slot receiver. And even if he doesn’t, the Packers could still use him as a special teams player and third running back. Rodgers had a 50-yard kickoff return against the 49ers in the first preseason game two weeks ago. 

“Certainly, (Rodgers) set up the return,” said Packers coach Matt LaFleur. “It was well blocked. I think the hardest hit came when he got to the sideline and Rashan Gary knocked him on his butt.”

So the Packers could keep two running backs and put Hill on the practice squad. That means that Green Bay could swallow keeping eight wide receivers because one of those guys will be used as a third running back. And with Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon being used in plenty of two-back sets this year, the third running back will be important this year for the Packers. The Packers are going to look like an old-school Big Ten team this year because they will lean on the run game more, then let the defense squeeze the life out of teams. 

With that defense, the offense will only need to score 17 points a game. In order for that to happen, they need to keep the clock moving and they need to keep moving the chains.

The 5-foot-9, 212-pound Rodgers will not be the battering ram that Dillon is and he won’t be as fast and strong as Jones. But Rodgers will certainly fill a void in the backfield. 

The question will come when Hill comes back and is fully ready to go. He will be the third back but do the Packers keep Rodgers simply because of his willingness to do anything and play anywhere? 

That’s a tough question. But right now, it makes sense for the Packers to keep Rodgers and use him as a Swiss army knife. Don’t waste roster spots  if you don’t have to. 
 

 

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__________________________

Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn

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3 points
 

Comments (117)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
Renllaw's picture

August 23, 2022 at 06:22 am

I believe Goodson could be just as effective or better at everything you listed for Amari Rodgers. Goodson looks like a natural pass catcher, a decisive runner, and as far as this outside observer sees, less prone to mental errors. I dont want to give up on Rodgers, if we can find another position to thin out and keep him thats great. But because he was a 3rd round pick, is no reason to roster him. May the best players make the team.

12 points
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:48 am

...and neither guy is going to be much of a blocker out of the backfield.

I think the Packers' 3rd RB will be more in the mold of Dillon than AJones...which makes me think it's Patrick Taylor (assuming Hill is out). They'll put a quick back on the PS...it might be Goodson, it might not be Goodson.

The interesting quote from TGR's practice roundup yesterday...

"You keep the 53 that you are most worried would get poached by another team & then add your next next 16 to the practice squad hoping you can keep the top 69 players. Don’t worry if they have 8 wr’s on the 53 or only 2 rbs - did they keep the best 69 overall. That’s the goal. 2) Krys Barnes is actually a great example of this. They had plans to start him week 1 as a rookie but cut him during 53-man cut downs because they knew they’d get him back. They did and he started week 1. There’s a gamesmanship to the first 53, it’s not best 53. Herman "

6 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:17 am

Taylor is also looking to be their third down back and pass protector of choice behind Jones and Dillon. He’s done well at that, has consistently got tough yards and made key stops on STs. He might not be as spectacular running, but I think he’s essentially a lock.

Rodgers yesterday seemed to be being tried in a role that Goodson would actually be a natural for. Is that a sign of blinkers by LaFleur or merely trying to give a good man a last chance to find a role? It’s pretty clear he can’t get open down field. Just 7 targets on 50 routes run for a guy they’ve been trying to feature is an alarm bell. I don’t know, but to me Cory is inverting reality with his claims that Rodgers adds versatility, at least on the pre cutdown roster.

7 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:50 am

Those snaps of Cobb and Montgomery at RB really improved the team, didn't they?

Cory is putting all his Amari chips on the roulette wheel #8. Cutting Taylor and/or Goodson to move square peg Amari into the round RB hole? Come on!

Taylor ALWAYS moves the pile and has been consistently good on STs (one of the few). Goodson is a good zone runner and is a true receiving threat. He is a better receiver than Rodgers is a RB.

If Rodgers does not earn a spot as a WR, he may sneak onto the 53 as a returner...but that would be make work and a luxury for a team that has several return guys. And at this point, he'd likely make the PS.

1 points
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UGDR's picture

August 24, 2022 at 01:28 pm

"Packers don’t have a legitimate player to keep as a third back." I believe Renllaw is right and Mr. Goodson might have something to say about this hot take. Amari is not showing much good. If they stubbornly hold on too long to Amari, who the QB is already fed up with, and shits his pants on every special teams play, it will be a detriment to the team. Special Teams alone last week he caught a punt by pinning it against his facemask, then couldn't field the long punt, and then fielded the next punt at the 3 yard line and returned it to the 9yard line!! That's a lot of bad with little redeeming plays besides not fumbling an end around. Everyone makes mistakes.

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Leatherhead's picture

August 23, 2022 at 06:36 am

Amari Rodgers isn’t going anywhere. It’s a fantasy for people who want to pretend they’re smarter than our GM.

-8 points
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barutanseijin's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:36 am

Quentin Rollins isn’t going anywhere. Jace Sternberger isn’t going anywhere. Montravius Adams isn’t going anywhere. J’mon Moore isn’t going anywhere, It’s a fantasy for people who want to pretend they’re smarter than our GM.

Come on. Everyone makes mistakes.

8 points
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Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:26 am

Right, even though our GM knows much more than I do, everyone make mistakes -- which seems to mean that it's okay to question our GMs and even disagree with them.

4 points
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Leatherhead's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:45 am

Wonderful examples of guys who were not cut after their rookie years, with the exception of Moore, who was cut as a rookie. Not a single one of those guys was cut at the beginning of the second season.

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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:49 am

Moore was let go after his second preseason. In all cases in much weaker rosters and thus with much less competition.

5 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:54 am

But all should have been. Mistakes are good teachers. Just don't let them teach you the same lesson over and over.

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BuckyBadger's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:46 am

His picks past the 2nd round have been pretty awful.

0 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:56 am

Nice display of sarc!

0 points
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GregC's picture

August 23, 2022 at 06:39 am

This is the first I've heard of Amari Rodgers being a serious option at running back. Has he played RB at all during practice? Seems like I would've heard about it if he had. If his ability to play RB is being touted as his main reason for making the team, he is on very shaky ground indeed.

He's been slow to develop as a WR, partly because Cobb was brought in unexpectedly as part of the Aaron Rodgers settlement last year, but he's still worth keeping. He looks faster and more decisive this year. But he needs to figure out how to get open more than he does. He needs to find the holes in the defense. I'm hoping that comes with experience.

2 points
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:54 am

I'm not so sure about the Cobb theory. Cobb's a vet...doesn't need a huge number of practice reps, and when Cobb missed 5 games late in the season, AmRod didn't do much with his opportunity. Hell, he didn't even get on the field much.

Don't get me wrong: I want every Packers pick and player to light it up, but I always felt AmRod was buoyed in college by an outstanding roster (and high-end college QB) in a bottom-heavy conference. I hope he develops, but if the Packers decided it needed to be on someone else's roster, I wouldn't be hurt by that decision.

9 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:12 am

Cobb showed what he can do yesterday. He just knows how to get open. The only thing is durability, but he’s still a great critical down/red zone piece still when healthy.

1 points
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stockholder's picture

August 23, 2022 at 06:50 am

Right! Rodgers isn't going any where. Draft status has given him a free pass. Drafted for the slot. He's small and light on his feet.
And no matter how much you think Cobb can teach him. He's reached his ceiling as a WR. A RB ? - Very Laughable.
His value as a Punt returner has yet to be determined. So- as long as he doesn't' fumble. The staff will be blind.
8 WRs?? Seriously? He could cost us a better player. A player that is a mis- match in tight spaces. And a much higher ceiling.
They need more from Rodgers. More; Than just being a Punt returner. And since he ran so good in the open field.
It just might be the right bait to trade him. While we can.

8 points
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Untylu1968's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:48 am

What's laughable, is claiming to know that a player has reached his ceiling, after one year in the NFL. I suppose if you say it about every guy, that isn't an instant stud, you're bound to be right, eventually.

-1 points
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mrtundra's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:56 am

And this is the best Amari has looked, since he was drafted! He mainly played on STs, in year one, and only had a handful of plays with the Offense, so how can he be judged for that? His play in camp and in the preseason games, this year, have shown a much more polished, ready to play, player. Cut him some slack. He will be a big part of the Packers' plans, going forward. GO PACK, GO!!!

-5 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:37 am

He can’t get open, has rookie route issues, is questionable reading the field and has a tiny catch radius. He is more nimble than last year certainly, but that’s about it for polish. He’s not faster or more agile than Goodson or any other WR in the top 8.

If he makes the team it’s because he’s our returner which likely means that they do not want to use Doubs. If they are looking to try to find a way that he can contribute as an active player in this manner it goes some way to telling that they no longer see him as justified as a receiver alone and have abandoned the pretense of last year. It could also be a last go at justifying the pick, if Doubs is actually the intended lead returner in season.

I find it baffling that people are defending a guy who can’t get open, can’t read the field and is less athletic than any peer. He is very rarely targeted for a reason. Don’t we want the best players out there?

6 points
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HawkPacker's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:31 am

Not sure if he is the answer CW, but he has improved much more this year so far than you have given him credit for.

-2 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:55 am

I wish I could agree. He’s good at what he was good at Clemson. He’s not showed any ability to play other than slot, he struggles to get separation on routes and to read the field and has not displayed an ability to extend his catch radius. He’s quicker, we agree, but he equally obviously needs to be schemed open in space. Where then is the significant change year on year?

4 points
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Leatherhead's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:52 am

In his rookie preseason, he caught 13 passes in 16 targets, no drops, no turnovers. Compare that to Romeo Doubs preseason, where he's caught 6 passes in 12 attempts with 4 drops and a turnover.

Then, in the regular season, he handled punt return duties and did not have a single turnover. When Hill broke himself returning a kick he didn't need to, the coaches gave the job to Rodgers and he didn't have a single turnover as a kick returner, either.

He's been durable and available.

And yes, Swisch, it's OK to question and people do make mistakes. But teams of people making very good coin make fewer mistakes than some guys on a fan board with no skin in the game. This is their profession.

Amari Rodgers is part of the plan for this year. Now, if he has a bad year, I can't guarantee he'll be around in 2023, but as far as 2022 is concerned, he isn't going anywhere.

-4 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:10 am

He was out played by Taylor and Winfree in his first preseason. He was largely ignored in favor of Winfree in the couple of games he saw the field in season. Winfree has outclassed him in every respect this preseason. Winfree is a 3rd year UDFA.

I am sure that you read Rodgers comments on Doubs yesterday, differentiating him from any other rookie receiver, in the past half decade particularly, and how he was going to see the field having demonstrated special talent.

Whatever Rodgers turns out to be in the end, so far he’s been a borderline return guy last year and a marginal depth receiver this. It’s interesting that Aaron Rodgers has voluntarily praised Doubs and Winfree repeatedly, even Toure, but never mentioned Rodgers as a receiver. It’s interesting that in fact no QB has regularly targeted Rodgers even when there’s no other vet out there. Targets speak volumes over time.

3 points
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Leatherhead's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:48 am

Some of that is fact, and some is opinion.

So if Amari Rodgers goes out and catches 30-40 balls this year, it's going to really destroy your narrative that he's not a receiver and can't get open. Kind of like the narrative that we'd totally suck in perpetuity because we didn't trade Aaron Rodgers away.

The season approaches. My prediction is that Amari Rodgers will play and contribute to a win in the opener. My prediction on Doubs is the same as it has been from the beginning: If he gets a bunch of targets and catches this year, it'll be because the people ahead of him were injured or played poorly.

-5 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:09 am

Which part is opinion? Lack of targets, performance last year, Aaron Rodgers comments?

3 points
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Galacticat's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:07 am

If the accepted definition of “versatile” is being mediocre at multiple things, then Amari Rodgers is versatile. The reality actually reeks of desperation, moving the guy all around trying to find SOMETHING he can do well in order to extract some return on investment. And hopefully they find something for him.

14 points
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:21 am

You beat me to this one.

So far, he's versatile the same way Don Barclay was versatile.

8 points
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Johnblood27's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:42 am

Ouch Dobbs.

One painful cookie for that little gem!

1 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:17 am

To be fair to Barclay, he was looking reasonable as a swing prospect until that bad injury. He never looked to be the same afterwards. Rodgers has not had that kind of injury.

2 points
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Johnblood27's picture

August 23, 2022 at 03:45 pm

maybe amrod doesn't need an injury to be a barclay-esque versatile player... just sayin'...

0 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:11 am

I agree that Rodgers isn't going anywhere. The part I disagree with is him being our 3rd RB. And I disagree that they don't have a 3rd option. Tyler Goodson is our 3rd option at RB. He brings a different presence at RB. He brings some serious juice to the position. I would be really surprised if they cut Goodson with what he has shown. He has very good hands and can be a real weapon out of the backfield as a receiving RB. He also can run the ball really well. He is a perfect RB for the scheme. Those zone stretch plays highlight his abilities as a runner.

Rodgers will most likely be our top returner this year. He will also be more of our gadget player on offense. He will be the swiss army knife. He will be the guy they move around and put in motion a lot and lining him up everywhere. He can line up in the backfield and shift to the slot. This is something they have done a lot in the past.

While Rodgers may not be a one of the top WR's on the team right now, I think they will have a significant role for him. He will be the Tyler Ervin/Deebo Samuel type of player in our offense. He will be a weapon that they will find ways to use him in a variety of ways.

-2 points
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Fubared's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:19 am

Ya if they are trying to make Amari a running back it means one thing, trying to justify Gutts third round pick not being a bust.
Funny havent heard one glowing anything about our number two pick receiver. Ya he hurt his pinkie in ota's but its show time and I dont think he is showing.

-4 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:00 am

ok

0 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:00 am

ok

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:41 am

That should be the bigger, faster, more athletic Watson. These “find a way” plays are the best way to get him on the field more and we should be trying to get him out there and not just to go deep. As a kicker, Watson has far more experience running the ball than Rodgers and as a blocker.

3 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:02 am

I'm sure they will find ways for Watson to play. But Rodgers has skills to. They will find ways to use all of these guys.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:25 am

Watson’s biggest challenge at this point, per Rodgers, is learning to track the deep ball. That makes it less likely he will be going deep regularly. Doubs and Toure are good trackers and deep threats as well, so we do have one or more other deep options . If Watson is struggling then his other attribute is option type plays and running with the ball both after catching in space and about of the backfield.

What skill does Rodgers have that would seem to be missing from Watson in that type of role? It’s not speed, experience, catching or blocking. Sorry, I’m not seeing a plus in that comparison and I do think that’s the way Watson will get in the field very early on.

1 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

August 23, 2022 at 12:14 pm

Thank you, CW. You see what I do.

Watson back on the field does everything Amari does and is bigger, faster, more athletic and skillfull....and would be more dynamic in the gadget role and should take Amari's snaps there.

Watson played teams all through college and was very productive.

Rodgers took a step forward this offseason...as the team took two steps forward. His expected value this year is less than last year.

2 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:13 am

RC,
In agreement with you!

Amari is not going anywhere. Guy looks light and day better than last year. Assuming he is only going to continue to get better with schemes.

Believe Gutey has some real soul searching to do as it relates to Aaron Jones & R. Cobb as both may be in their last season with the Packers. Cobb in particular being ARod's friend is really messing up plans for some of these young players with possible upside.

Does Gutey keep Amari because of potential and because he knows Cobb is gone after 2022? Crazy to keep a fragile player who will not make it thru the season and is in his last year over a young and promising player such as Amari, and Toure. Defies logic to me anyway.

What is Gutey going to do with A. Jones after this year with K. Hill, Goodson being his replacement in 2023 should Jones be let go due to salary cap. Maybe TGR jumps in regarding Jones and any salary cap hit if he is let go after this season.

The 2022 roster cannot be just about players for this year if he knows some of the players are not going to be around in 2023 and there are some good young players at those positions. He has to plan somehow for 2022 and for 2023 and guys like Hill, Goodson, and Amari are promising and would be around for several years.

-4 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:08 am

The one thing to keep in mind with Gutey is he likes to draft and develop players. Some guys may not be ready right away. But he has a plan for these guys. Rodgers is a good example of that. Last year wasn't very good, but he was drafted for the future. This goes for UDFA's also. Yosh is a good example of that. A couple of UDFA's to keep an eye on are Goodson and Caleb Jones. Could Jones be this years version of Yosh?

1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:46 am

Getting AmRod on the field more means in essence that mlf would be removing a more talented player from the field.

Wasted plays to justify a draft selection? reeks of ego desperation.

AmRod may very well make this team. If mlf works hard to get him touches he will be wasting plays and reps for young actually ascending players.

If AmRod makes this team, he should be buried on the depth chart and be an injury replacement only, not a schemed-for player in a regular rotation.

My 2 cents.

5 points
5
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:42 am

"Getting AmRod on the field more means in essence that mlf would be removing a more talented player from the field."
I don't think it really does. I think it means that they will be using a rotation of players, packages, and personnel groupings. I think this year we will see a lot more changing of players then in past years. We don't have Adams this year. We have a lot of young guys, and I think they will find roles for all of them.

Spreading the ball around would be a very good thing for Rodgers this year.

1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:00 pm

spreading the ball around is a good idea.

let's now start thinking about spreading the ball around to the most talented and effective players.

Now you are getting it...

you're welcome!

0 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:16 am

JB,
I always respect your thoughts, as well as other respected posters who do not believe Amari will evolve and become a productive player. I just have seen him develop & improve quite a bit since last year. From some accounts he maybe hasn't picked up the offense as fast as he maybe should. He lost approx. 16 lbs this offseason and is visibly faster/quicker with the ability to make quick cuts. He seems focused and committed. He is a core special teams player. He appears to have upside and is inexpensive to keep for several more years. I will be watching him more in the last pre-season game to see if I see what CW and you/others seem to think. At this point though my opinion has not changed and he should be kept, particularly if the team thinks he can be used in many gadget type roles on offense. I have felt the team has lacked a player who can fill a role like this for quite a few years. We shall see whether Amari has that skill set!

1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

August 23, 2022 at 03:43 pm

ktsooy, I get where you are coming from.

I hope for him to pan out, I do not wish failure on any Packer player.

I just haven't seen much to give me optimism from him, while others who may get cut show more promise to my uneducated eye.

I dont say cut him for the sake of cutting him, I say only cut him if there are better options for the 53.

Goodson looks like more of a gadget threat than amrod, if I was a coach looking to mold a player to that role, I would think long and hard about Goodson there. His hands and burst look like true talents. Amrod just hasn't shown that 'something' yet.

2 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:00 am

The guy should be pink slipped. Maybe they can pull in a 6th rd pick for him in '23? He is not a wideout. There are 3-4 other players that can field punts. Goodson has burst and Taylor brings a bigger body to the table. I would keep Four RBs on the roster.

3 points
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NickPerry's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:15 am

.double post

0 points
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NickPerry's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:24 am

"The Packers would be able to keep two running backs on the 53-man roster and still hope that Rodgers becomes a viable threat as a slot receiver. And even if he doesn’t, the Packers could still use him as a special teams player and third running back."

Am I the only person who absolutely cringes with fear at the thought of actually TRYING to keep just TWO running backs on the 53-man roster? And if that's actually what the front office is thinking, even in a season where running the back should/could be the Packer's identity on offense, the Packers would want Rodgers as a possible 3rd and not Goodson who's actually SHOWED something.

Look, I agree, I don't think Rodgers is going anywhere and I suppose they could TRY him at RB in an EMERGENCY. But to think they'll be okay with Jones, Dillon, and Rodgers as a 3rd makes me physically ill.

Yup, there went my breakfast!

12 points
12
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:36 am

"Yup, there went my breakfast!"

I can't believe I threw up in front of Dean Wermer.

Face it, Nick, you threw up ON Dean Wermer.

1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:48 am

Otter - Mine is bigger... what's your name?

Mrs Wermer - Mrs Wermer

Otter - We have a Dean Wermer at Faber.

Mrs Wermer - Funny, I have a Dean Wermer at home...

2 points
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NickPerry's picture

August 24, 2022 at 05:41 am

LOL!!!!.

1 points
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Rarescope's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:38 am

I find it extremely unlikely that this article in any way reflects what the front office is thinking. I give this author a hard time a lot here but… I didn’t need to read who wrote it because I already knew after reading the title.

3 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:07 am

"Keeping 8 receivers"
"Only keep 2 RB's, with Rodgers as the occasional 3rd"
"We're only going to have to score 17 points a game this year"

I'm guessing Cory hadn't had his coffee before writing this article.

0 points
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Johnblood27's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:50 am

Corey is done with the "Dead Zone" and he is in mid-season form with this little gem!

How to make the team right outta camp Corey!

Stir that pot, even if it is with a dirty spoon!

3 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

August 23, 2022 at 12:22 pm

Good one JB!

0 points
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10ve 💚's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:40 am

"Am I the only person who absolutely cringes with fear at the thought of actually TRYING to keep just TWO running backs on the 53-man roster?"

Nope Nick, you are not the only one! Count me in!

5 points
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Johnblood27's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:51 am

I am currently under the bed in the back bedroom with my head inside of a pillowcase cringing...

Thanks Corey!

2 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:46 am

We had a 3rd RB in the championship game but we might as well not have since they refused to use him. That non use likely contributed to us losing. LaFleur conceded that that was another howler of a decision. 2 RBs is ridiculous. They won’t even go into a preseason game with 2 back up RBs. If we have to go through these kind of contortions to justify a player then something is very wrong.

4 points
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ricky's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:37 am

There are a lot of assumptions in this article. First, that the Packers are planning on using Rodgers in the backfield. Has there been any indication at camp, or during the exhibition games, that they are planning on doing this? And keeping eight WR's? Wow. Add in that returning kicks is nowhere near the same as playing in the backfield, and this speculation gets more wild. Then, there is the statement (not speculation; this was stated as a fact) that the offense would only need to score 17 points a game. Where did this number come from? Where you do get wholehearted agreement is any call to cut Rodgers. As always, different players develop at different rates. Rodgers has shown more development during training camp and during the exhibition games. This is encouraging. Let it play out for another year or two.

6 points
8
2
dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:41 am

"Has there been any indication at camp, or during the exhibition games, that they are planning on doing this? "

Yes. See here, as an example (under RBs)...

https://www.cheeseheadtv.com/blog/packers-practice-roundup-august-22-202...

0 points
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Rarescope's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:52 am

Touché and here I thought Cory was just making stuff up. Nice work Dobber.

0 points
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:00 am

TGR does all the work. :)

1 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:03 am

While he did take a handoff and can be used in the role, it is a lot different doing it as a change of pace kind of thing vs doing it down in and down out. I just don't see him being a full time RB at this point. Maybe in a pinch they could use him as a RB. I just don't see them going with 2 RB's, especially when they are planning to have 2 RB's on the field a lot as a big part of the offense.

I will say this though about only keeping 2 RB's. If they were to go that route (i doubt they would), if they plan to get Hill back after 4 weeks, they possibly could be thinking that they have the top 2 guys and Rodgers to fill in for the first 4 weeks. And they could bring a PS guy up if needed. I don't see this happening, but it could something they are considering.

1 points
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:16 am

"While he did take a handoff and can be used in the role, it is a lot different doing it as a change of pace kind of thing vs doing it down in and down out.

Very true...and.AmRod only logged 6 carries in college. SIX. Keeping in mind that a pitch forward to a sweeping WR is a pass, and a pitch backward is a run, that's still not a lot of runs for a guy in four years of college--where OC's love to use the trickeration--who we're thinking of being the gadget WR or maybe a RB. Some guys make that transition, but so far it doesn't look like the Packers are seriously transitioning him.

1 points
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wildbill's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:23 am

Doesn’t matter about Amari and Goodson playing RB if they can’t pass block! The Packers aren’t going to risk Aaron getting killed. Also it would be a dead giveaway that a run or gadget play is coming with either of those two are at RB. Maybe a wheel route would be good but how many of those can you run in the game?
And Amari fielding a punt at out 3 yard line!? How many poor decisions does he have to keep making before we quit putting him out there? Small catch radius plus poor decision making doesn’t add up to a valuable player. If we were so loaded at WR I would say keep him but to me he is a PS player until next year when Cobb leaves, if he progresses

3 points
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:39 am

The Packers seem--every year--to have a depth of talent that makes us all cringe at cuts and Gutey usually is pretty active on the phones just before that last cutdown. This year feels like a year where the Packers try to move a couple guys at cuts to try to bring in depth/developmental pieces--maybe at S or TE.

2 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:53 am

I would not be surprised if they went out and added another S. If Scott can't come back soon I can definitely see them looking for someone on the cut list to add. I do think Shawn Davis will be the 3rd/4th S, but I do think they will possibly be looking to add another.

0 points
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 07:56 am

Others can correct me if I'm wrong, but the early reports were that Scott's shoulder was not a minor thing.

0 points
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RCPackerFan's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:04 am

I haven't seen anything official. But I just got back from vacation and did miss a quite a bit this last week.
Usually when they are still searching for opinions on it, its not a good thing. So I'm kind of assuming he won't be back for a while.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:26 am

They were getting second opinions per LaFleur. That typically means there is a debate about the need for surgery. That’s normally not an indication if a quick return but that the outlook is between medium and long, depending on further advice.

1 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

August 23, 2022 at 12:29 pm

I think Matt confirmed Scott was getting a second opinion. He also was concerned about the suddenly depleted S group that was already the Ds weak link depth wise.

0 points
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wildbill's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:24 am

Safety is a concern for me at this moment

2 points
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Fubared's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:17 am

The Packers can release a few people still who names we dont even know were on the team. Next Tuesday is when it gets interesting.
The trend by staff is to keep those people who know the system and its rare for someone who may be lighting it up in pre season to make the team, practice squad yes but team no.
Amari needs to start earning that 3rd pick money.

2 points
2
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dobber's picture

August 24, 2022 at 08:14 am

"The Packers can release a few people still who names we dont even know were on the team."

Some of those guys make it so that a veteran they're trying to keep healthy in the preseason doesn't have to play extended snaps. I would argue that the Danny Davis cut was an example of a guy we knew wasn't going to make the 53 being cut to make sure they had enough depth on the DL/OLB/S/etc. to not need to play some guys on Thursday.

0 points
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Bure9620's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:33 am

I could not disagree more with the author. Amari Rodgers is expendable exactly because he lacks any versitility. Can he line up outside? Nope. Can he block?nope. Can he return punts? Nope not well. Does he have to be schemed open, in order to be open? Yes. Does he drop passes? Yup. I really don't understand the infatuation with this guy "well if you just line him up in the slot and scheme him open or throw him a bubble screen he could be decent!" Or just make him a running back?

TGR said it. Against second team vanilla defenses, 50 routes, 7 targets, 3 catches, 27 yards. He is replaceable.

Be honest. If Amari Rodgers were not a 3rd round pick but rather a UDFA, this would not be a debate.

"Rodgers won't be a battering ram like AJ Dillon and defenses won't be afraid of his speed like Aaron Jones" yes there we agree

11 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:57 am

Rodgers isn’t Cobb who came in as a more polished runner than catcher. His pass game acumen was a surprise. Cobb was not all that successful as a runner in the NFL despite that. I see little to no reason why Rodgers taking a few gadget snaps late in camp in year 2 is making normally rational people start talking about him as a third RB option with straight faces.

6 points
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Tundraboy's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:08 am

Exactly. As NP said, almost lost it when this article popped up. Wishful dreaming at its best. Rogers has improved but I struggle to see a strength in any aspect of his game, to even think about putting him out there over some other player. At any position.

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:54 am

If you replace him with somebody who gets more targets and catches, who is going to get fewer targets and catches as a result? Or are we just going to pass more and run less?

Those same vanilla defenses have Doubs with 6 catches in 12 targets, 4 drops, and a turnover. Is he replaceable? How about Wyatt, who hasn't done much in camp. Should we cut him in order to keep Heflin? Or is there hope that a 21 year old might get better?

0 points
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Bure9620's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:00 am

The article is suggesting Rodgers play a diffrent position he is totally unproven playing taking arguably the two best skill position players off the field in Jones and Dillion. Amari Rodgers isnt going to get targeted anyway. If he could block I might see the argument, but he can't. What is his value?

2 points
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Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:19 am

What does Wyatt (young high upside) defensive player have to do with Rodgers? Wyatt is an archetypal draft and develop talent. Rodgers is a guy whose been bested by miles by guys like Hyman and Davis as receivers when they not he are rookies and he’s has many more opportunities and their upside was the PS. Rodgers only splash play in camp was a dump off in space. Absent returning, he’s not even in PS contention on the basis of actual camp performance as a receiver. 50 targets, 3 catches against 2/3/4s is viscerally damning.

I’d replace him with Watson. Get Watson more snaps and more ball in hand. I’d consider Goodson or Toure too.

2 points
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Bure9620's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:33 am

Also with regard to Doubs. Yes he has had drops. He is also getting open consistently. He was doing it in joint practices, he cooked Bradley Roby off the line. That is a veteran corner. Amari Rodgers has not shown an ability to get open at all....you have to win one on one to stick around in the NFL. Rodgers does not.

3 points
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Leatherhead's picture

August 23, 2022 at 05:58 pm

And yet, as a rookie, he caught 13 passes in three games. Was he open then?

-1 points
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dobber's picture

August 23, 2022 at 06:15 pm

Withdrawn

0 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

August 23, 2022 at 06:30 pm

Ummmm....no he didn't. He caught 4 passes on 8 targets as a rookie. Ever wonder why he was only targeted 8 times over 17 games? Of course not.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4239992/amari-rodgers

Unless you're talking about preseason, which of course you are. Again, why didn't that transfer over to the regular season? Anybody who observed Rodgers vs Doubs during their respective rookie preseasons and thinks Rodgers has the more upside needs to get a new hobby.

Anybody who thinks Doubs is going to only get 8 targets this upcoming season...based on his preseason...please raise your hand.

0 points
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Bure9620's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:57 pm

If you are refering to Amari Rodgers 2021 stats, he had 8 targets, 4 catches, 45 yards.

0 points
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LLCHESTY's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:28 pm

Meanwhile Doubs has had 12 targets in 29 routes run. Only the most stubborn would refuse to see the difference. The best part of this is if Rodgers makes the team it will be as a returner, the part of the game his staunchest defender detests.

https://twitter.com/JacobMorley/status/1561708010682163200?t=5d9dxrdwmcD...

0 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:44 am

Either way, Cory's headline is an accurate description. My concern is Amari stays and continues to not go anywhere. Everybody has to be somewhere, but he has the ability to not be anywhere at all or to be in the wrong place doing the wrong thing at the most inopportune times.

6 points
6
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lou's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:04 am

The key word when it comes to Rodgers is "draft status", that kept Josh Jackson, Oren Burks, Jace Sternberger, Jmon Moore etc taking a roster spot from a possible productive player for years in all 3 cases when it was apparent they could not play. Aaron Rodgers recently commented in regards to a Love interception saying in effect, Amari ran a terrible route that caused it in the first pre season game. You have to wonder about a kid with such a great opportunity his rookie year coming to camp 20 pounds over weight to begin with. They put him on punt returns all last season and it still appears he has problems tracking the ball yet and last year when he did track it he dropped too many.

5 points
5
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barutanseijin's picture

August 23, 2022 at 01:41 pm

All those guys are people Wolf probably would have cut sooner than TT or Gutekunst. I don’t recall if he had as quick a trigger with his dud #1 picks.

0 points
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Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 08:54 am

I guess once in a while it's obvious to the coaches that a highly-drafted player is a bust.
However, after the example of Rashan Gary, it seems that generally it's a bad idea to rush to judgement.

-2 points
2
4
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:03 am

This is true, for instance J’mon Moore. However, the time invested usually requires obvious physical talent and upside. Rodgers has no partially obvious physical trait that suggests that if he could just “click” he’d be a major asset. He hasn’t shown mental acuity that could suggest an ability to buck the curve either and at least arguably there are others ahead of him in every facet of his game. Those types typically fade away. Gary was different in virtually every respect. Nijman too. It’s either raw physical talent or the innate ability to just make things happen that buys time.

6 points
6
0
Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:16 am

It would seem that Amari would have the physical talent if drafted in the third round.
The key would be whether he can adjust to the speed and rhythm and timing of the pro game -- and it seems too early to tell with Amari.
In a league filled with players of comparable talent, wouldn't success for any given player have a lot to do with his determination to succeed?
***
CW, I'm inclined to give your opinions a good measure of weight, so I won't be surprised if you're right about Amari.
Yet, unless the coaches are fairly certain he just can't cut it in the NFL, I'm reluctant to give up on him becoming a valuable player for the Packers.
If Amari isn't getting open in the past two preseason games, does it really mean that he'll never be able to find ways to get open? Is he really a lost cause for NFL football?

-1 points
0
1
Coldworld's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:41 am

I’m not always right by any means. But if a player who isn’t making an impact is to be retained they have to show some exceptional ability that as yet can’t be fully harnessed fully or consistently enough. When I look at Rodgers I just don’t see the physical gifts to justify accepting the inadequate performance as a receiver. When a guy can’t consistently get open against second through 4th stringers that suggests that there is at least a physical issue as well as an experiential one.

Simply put, Rodgers appears to be a marginal athlete and for a guy if his size, that’s terminal. A classic example of when good GMs cut their losses. Add in the fact that Gute has assemblers more talented slot types at this point and the case seems particularly clear cut. The exception is his returning. If they protect Doubs, it buys him time perhaps, but I see little in which to base hope that he will ever be a front line receiver at this level.

1 points
1
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Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 03:28 pm

Well, if it's determined Amari just doesn't have it as an NFL player, I agree that it's best to part ways this summer rather than waiting until next summer.
***
It's a little before my time, but my understanding of Paul Hornung -- winner of the Heisman Trophy and first pick overall in the 1957 draft -- was that after two seasons with the Packers he was a bust and even a joke.
Not fast enough for halfback, not strong enough for fullback, not a good enough passer for quarterback, plus there may have questions about whether Hornung was truly dedicated to football. (Other fans here can correct me or add context).
Apparently, mired on the sidelines during a game against the Rams in Los Angeles, Hornung even agreed to take a photo with a pretty fan who came down from the stands.
***
However, as it turned out under a new coach named Lombardi, it seems Hornung had a knack for football at the NFL level, a good feel for the pace of the game, a sense of things that enabled him to become a hall-of-famer.
All of a sudden, instead of being severely limited, he was superbly versatile, even MVP for the 1961 season and for the championship game win against the Giants.
That seems the key for Amari, whether he has the capability to adjust to the speed and flow and chaos of the game in the NFL.
This knack seems to be a subtle skill that some guys have, and some guys don't.
For quarterbacks, it includes poise in the pocket and being able to read the field under pressure.
For wide receivers, it includes finding holes in the defense to get open, operating not too slow and not too fast.
Without the knack, even the most talented players will fail, or at least fall short of expectations. With the knack, players can separate themselves from the ordinary and excel.
At least that's how I see it. I hope the Packers coaches are good at discerning which players in training camp have this nuanced knack for football.

0 points
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LLCHESTY's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:34 pm

The thing that's bothersome about that is there were some truly exceptional athletes as slot WRs in that draft. A lot of fast guys. Having only MVS as a speed receiver was a step up for failure if he was injured. He was at the most inopportune time and it cost them. They learned from their mistake but, like DL, a year or two too late.

0 points
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Bure9620's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:55 am

Double

0 points
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Bure9620's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:55 am

Gary is different in that he has very unique, actually freakish athletic traits. He also was learning a new position compared to what he was asked to do at Michigan, and was consistently showing growth through his time being drafted to now.

1 points
1
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PackyCheese500's picture

August 23, 2022 at 09:23 am

Completely Agree!

0 points
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NoNonsense's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:15 am

Well if as the article infers it's Goodson vs Rodgers for a roster spot, give me Goodson. He's the closest guy to Aaron Jones and actually has a better RAS. Not as natural as a runner but a slightly better athlete.

Patrick Taylor on the other hand is the definition of meh. If they wanna keep him for pass pro and STs then fine but he does not move the needle for me as a runner. He's been here longer and still hasn't made one wow play that I can remember.

As for Amari Rodgers, I can at least see improvement from the guy from last year. Not saying much there but I wanna see if he can continue to improve and get used to his new found quickness with his remade body. He spent the off-season working his butt off and said he learned all the WR positions and not just the slot like last year. It hasn't paid off yet but with that type of work ethic it's worth trying to develop other parts of his game while he contributes as a return man and gadget/motion guy.

I want a guy that can turn a 2 yrd pass into a 23 yrd TD or a guy that can bust off a 50 yrd return. We have guys that can get open and separate better than him, yes but how many can take a bubble screen or short out route to the house? Watson yes he can but I haven't seen it from anyone else yet.

4 points
5
1
Tundraboy's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:46 am

Now that makes sense.

0 points
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Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 03:39 pm

In continuation with what I wrote yesterday, stated briefly: If our coaches think both Amari and Goodson are promising, then it'd be sad to let either of them go rather than parting ways with Cobb.

0 points
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PeteK's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:23 am

We still have one more preseason game to help decide.

1 points
1
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Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 03:42 pm

That's a big reason these preseason games are exciting.
There's a lot more to training camp than three preseason games as far as evaluating players, but I would think that these three games are an important consideration.

0 points
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dobber's picture

August 24, 2022 at 08:17 am

I think the decisions are already made.

0 points
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Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:30 am

It's hard to see Amari as the third running back who is likely to get several snaps during a game, but perhaps with some reps in the backfield he can be the fourth running back who might get no snaps at running back, or just a few for a different look from the offense, but who is insurance in case of injury.
To me, the Packers have to find a way to keep both Amari and Goodson with the team, even if they also keep another running back such as Taylor or Hill.

-4 points
0
4
Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 03:34 pm

Well, despite the four downvotes thus far, it makes sense to me.
It's like in baseball having an outfielder who can occasionally fill in at catcher if there's an injury or extra innings.
Ah, but forward-thinking ideas often meet with reluctance and resistance.
Anyway, I was just putting it forth as a possibility if the coaches think Amari can handle the running back position as well as being solid at receiver.

0 points
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splitpea1's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:18 am

Amari probably isn't going anywhere because GMs are often reluctant to give up on higher draft picks that don't have character or work ethic issues. Unfortunately, Amari's efforts to improve haven't always resulted in better kick return decisions or the ability to get open vs. coverage in the offense.

The whole Swiss Army knife analogy is a bit of a stretch here....That would be a player like Deebo Samuel, not Amari.

No-go with keeping 8 wide receivers--you're sacrificing needed depth at important positions elsewhere.

5 points
5
0
PatrickGB's picture

August 23, 2022 at 11:33 am

Agree. And we gave up a third (and fourth) round pick for him. Right now he looks like an overdrafted punt returner. Hopefully he gets better.

3 points
3
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Tundraboy's picture

August 23, 2022 at 01:43 pm

And that's my point. At best a punt returner. Problem is that seems to be the only area where he would be an improvement over what we already have found , thus far.

Punt /Kick off return is one area where I think that we will pick somebody up in the next round of cuts

1 points
1
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NoNonsense's picture

August 23, 2022 at 02:27 pm

Yeah well the Rams drafted Tutu Atwell in the 2nd round last year and he hardly played at all as a rookie and didn't catch a single pass. Had maybe 15 returns. He's looked much better this year though. That's just it, WR is not an easy position to be an instant starter or contributor. Doubs is an exception, his "IT" was visible almost immediately. Others have to slowly find their way onto the field and into the gameplan.

TE, DL, S, WR and QB are the toughest positions to find instant contributors from rookies. It happens but more often than not they struggle to make an early impact.

1 points
1
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LLCHESTY's picture

August 23, 2022 at 10:37 pm

"Doubs is an exception, his "IT" was visible almost immediately."

Not to some.

0 points
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Leatherhead's picture

August 24, 2022 at 10:44 am

I remember when Howard Cosell thought Rich Campbell had "IT".

I've seen him catch 6 passes, drop 4, and turn it over once, against second and third team defenders.

I will say that he was one half of our best play against NO. That touchdown toss from Love to Doubs is something we've seen before......Manning to Harrison, Rodgers to Jordy, Brady to different guys. When it's executed that perfectly, you can't defend it. It's a TD.

And it was our BACKUPS doing it. Our backups who had only practiced together for a couple weeks. That impressed me.

0 points
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barutanseijin's picture

August 23, 2022 at 01:55 pm

I remember Richard Rodgers getting receptions because defenders ignored him. “No need to worry about that slow dude. No YAC on that guy”.

Maybe Amari Rodgers can step into that non-threat threat role. The thing is, Richard Rodgers had a bigger catch radius and way better hands.

0 points
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GregC's picture

August 23, 2022 at 05:52 pm

I agree with most people here that Amari has been a disappointment. What I don't get is why so many think he is never going to significantly improve. WR is a hard position to learn, and that may be especially true for a slot specialist. He's not the kind of receiver who is going to be leaping high into the air and catching 50-50 balls. He needs to thoroughly learn the offense and learn what to do when plays break down, plus he needs to learn a lot about the tendencies of opposing defenses. Seems to me that he should at least be given a second season to learn those things.

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

August 24, 2022 at 10:49 am

I agree. Rodgers is a guy who will catch underneath routes and run. Of all of our WRs, he's the one who runs most like a halfback. And he will be given another season, and people are going to be pleasantly surprised with him.

0 points
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Swisch's picture

August 23, 2022 at 06:15 pm

Where, o where, is the love for Amari?
When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that's Amari!

1 points
1
0