The Green Bay Packers have a youth movement at the skill position. The oldest wide receiver is Samouri Toure at the young age of 25. The next is Christian Watson at 24, and the rest of the receivers are younger. There will be hiccups and mistakes, but growth at the position is the goal. One receiver has stood out in limited opportunities and should become a more significant part of the game plan after the bye week.
Green Bay Packers Wide Receiver Dontayvion Wicks
The 22-year-old rookie out of Virginia has shined in his limited snaps. His standout game was against the Atlanta Falcons when he took a post to the house, breaking multiple tackles. He ranks number one in the league at getting open vs. man coverage, an outstanding 62.50%. The young, talented receiver needs to get more opportunities.
Wicks has played 160 snaps through five games, which is third on the team. With the return of Watson, his snap count took a hit. The Packers still need to find ways to get him involved with the offense.
How the Green Bay Packers Can Fit Him In
The Packers can get away from their regular 12 and 11 personnel. 12 is one running back, two tight ends, and two wide receivers. 11 personnel is one running back, one tight end, and three wide receivers.
Lafluer should scheme up some ten personnel groups. Ten personnel is one running back and four receivers. Having the opportunity to use the young receiver’s speed against defenses. With Wicks ability to beat man coverage, Love can get the ball out quicker. Getting Love in rhythm has shown to be when he is most successful.
The idea would be to have Wicks and Reed in the slot while Doubs and Watson are on the perimeter. The speed of Watson should open up the underneath passes. Giving the Packers true pass sets and quick passes can relieve the struggling offensive line.
If Aaron Jones can get back healthy, he gives the team more flexibility in the passing game. Having the defense spread out wide, he can work underneath, where he is a tough matchup for linebackers.
Final thoughts
The Packers knew what they were getting into this season, entering with the youngest roster in the league. The growing pains are imminent, but giving other guys a chance to prove themselves should also be considered. I expect as Wicks learns the playbook and gets more comfortable, his usage will go up.
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