The Packers always seem to find diamonds in the rough at WR. Allen Lazard was a nobody until a Monday night game where receivers were going down with injuries left and right. Aaron Rodgers told the coaching staff to give number 13 a chance and now he is WR1 for the Packers this season. While the Packers can find the players, they have to take advantage of the opportunities. Packers WR Juwann Winfree is getting the opportunity and he is taking advantage of it. Juwann Winfree looks really impressive in training camp so far.
Who is Juwann Winfree?
A sixth round pick by the Denver Broncos in 2019, Winfree spent most of the 2020 season on the Packers’ practice squad. He had an impressive spring last year but then the injury bug bit him. He did appear in 7 games last season logging 8 catches for 58 yards. Coming into camp, it looked like Winfree was going to be low on the totem pole in terms of Packers WRs. The additions of Watkins and the rookie WRs seemed to overshadow Winfree. Then injuries happened. Watkins and rookie Christian Watson went on the injury list and suddenly Winfree was taking reps with the first team offense.
Winfree Impresses Day 1
Having a rapport with Rodgers is essential in the Packers offense. Rodgers has to trust his receivers to make a play on the ball. While there were many great moments from the WRs day 1, Winfree had the most impressive moment. Rodgers launched a bomb down the right sideline. Winfree, working against standout corner Eric Stokes, got a step and made a great catch down the sidelines. The crowd in attendance roared with approval. Post practice, both Rodgers and Winfree talked about that play. Rodgers made it clear not to discount Winfree and Winfree had a smile ear to ear when being asked about the play.
Can Winfree Translate this to the Field?
Training camp Winfree is nothing new. He did well last year but had a subpar season albeit with injuries. However, early signs show that Winfree has Rodgers trust and that says a lot. If Winfree can continue to make plays, don’t be surprised if he beats out Watkins or Watson for first team reps. The WR depth chart is one to follow for Packers training camp. It’s early but Juwann Winfree looks impressive.
For More Great Football Content
Follow us on Twitter at @GridironHeroics for more great content. We appreciate you taking time to read our articles. To interact more with our community and keep up to date on the latest in Football news, JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP by CLICKING HERE