The Packers have kicked off their Training Camp and are embarking on a new era for their football team. This season marks a significant change as it’s the first training camp in almost a decade without Aaron Rodgers, who was traded to the New York Jets during the offseason. This will be Jordan Love‘s first year as a starter, and the team is hoping that he will continue the winning tradition that Rodgers established during his time with the Packers.
The Packers have completed their first few training camp practices as they prepare for their upcoming joint practice with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Here are some noteworthy updates from the Packers training camp thus far:
Notes From Week No. 1 of Packers Training Camp (2023)
David Bakhtiari Is Getting The Marcedes Lewis Treatment
Head coach Matt LaFleur and the Packers are taking a cautious approach with pro bowl left tackle David Bakhtiari, similar to how they treated Marcedes Lewis, as he is getting up there in age. This means Bakhtiari has scheduled time off to ensure he is at full strength for the season, even taking breaks during team drills.
This has nothing to do with his knee, which has fully healed. As a veteran player and one of the best at his position when fully healthy, Bakhtiari doesn’t need a lot of practice reps. In addition, the Packers have good depth at offensive tackle with players like Yosh Nijman and Zach Tom, both of whom are battling for the right tackle job.
Luke Musgrave Is Showing Out
According to reports, the Packers’ starting tight end for the upcoming season will be rookie second-round pick, Luke Musgrave. Musgrave has been proving himself as a tough competitor so far, consistently outmaneuvering opposing defenders and demonstrating his potential as a very dangerous weapon for the Packers’ offense. He could be especially effective in attacking defenses through the middle of the field. However, Musgrave’s weakness lies in his run-blocking skills, as he has struggled so far in training camp against larger defensive players at the NFL level. Despite this, Musgrave’s potential to give the Packers a much-needed passing threat at tight end is promising, and his run-blocking abilities are expected to improve as training camp progresses.
Devonte Wyatt Showing He Is Ready To Take That Next Step
Also according to recent reports, Devonte Wyatt has had an impressive start to training camp. Despite his size, he displays remarkable athleticism and speed, showing why the Packers took him in the first round last year. Wyatt is expected to start alongside Kenny Clark and T.J. Slaton on the defensive line this year. He showed some promising moments towards the end of last season and hopes to build on that momentum. Given that he was already 24 years old when he was a rookie and recently turned 25, he needs to improve significantly this year. However, many positive indicators suggest he may have a breakout season.
Jayden Reed Bringing Versatility On Offense
Jayden Reed, the second-round rookie wide receiver for the Packers, has showcased his versatility so far in Packers training camp. He can play on the outside or in the slot. Reed is expected to start as the Packers’ slot receiver this year. The Packers have demonstrated his speed on end-around plays, making him a valuable gadget player like Tyler Ervin was in 2020. With Reed’s quick and precise route running, he will be a challenging receiver to cover in the slot. Additionally, his speed, when put in motion, will force defenses to pay attention and stay on their toes.
Shemar-Jean Charles Making Some Noise
During the offseason, Matt LaFleur believed Kisean Nixion would become this year’s starting slot corner. However, as training camp progresses, it’s possible for things to change. One player who could pose a challenge to Nixion’s starting position is Shemar-Jean Charles. Despite having no role in his first two seasons except for special teams, Charles has shown a promising performance in training camp so far. Currently, he is the top backup for the slot corner position behind Nixion. The competition between Nixion and Charles for the starting spot at slot corner during training camp should be interesting.
Jordan Love Will Have Designed Runs
Jordan Love’s mobility will be a valuable asset to the team’s offense this year. During training camp these past few days, some plays have included designed quarterback runs with a lead blocker. However, the Packers are cautious about keeping Love safe and avoiding any injuries. These designed runs will add a new dimension to the team’s playbook and keep defenses guessing. Expect to see a fair amount of these plays throughout the season.
Samori Toure Looks To a Big Part of This Offense
Keep an eye out for Samori Toure as a breakout player this season. As a second-year receiver, Toure demonstrated glimpses of his potential last year and can make explosive plays. He has added some weight this year and has impressed during the offseason and so far in training camp. Toure has caught the attention of the coaching staff with his performance. Expect Toure to play a crucial role in the Packers offense.
Romeo Doubs Has A Strong Connection With Jordan Love
There is a strong bond between Romeo Doubs and Jordan Love that has been present for a while. This bond originated during their college days when they trained together during summer sessions. Even during last year’s preseason games, Jordan Love frequently targeted Doubs, demonstrating their connection. This connection has persisted during training camp so far, and we can expect Love to continue targeting Doubs often throughout the upcoming season.
It is even possible that Doubs may become the offense’s top receiver this year with the rapport he shares with Jordan Love. Be sure to keep an eye out for the frequent occurrences of the Jordan Love-Romeo Doubs connection during the season.
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