3 fatal mistakes Packers made this season, and how they can fix them moving forward
Oct 23, 2022; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely (80) reacts during the first half of a game against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports
The Green Bay Packers have not lived up to expectations. Let’s reflect on their mistakes and look ahead to potential solutions.
With a 6-8 record, the Green Bay Packers appear to be a longshot to make the postseason. Entering the season, they were viewed as one of the frontrunners in the NFC. Aaron Rodgers was coming off back-to-back MVP awards. Despite some offseason losses, they still had a nice running back duo in Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon and a defense with a high ceiling.
So, what happened? Let’s break down the Packers’ mistakes and some potential solutions.
3. Mistakes the Packers made in 2022: Not drafting Isaiah Likely
Wide receiver continues to be a position of need for Packers (more on that later). However, they have not gotten much production out of the tight-end position, either. Robert Tonyan has been solid hauling in 46 out of 58 targets for 376 yards and a touchdown, but there is a massive drop-off behind him. Marcedes Lewis is primarily utilized as a blocker at this stage of his career, and 2020 third-round pick Josiah Deguara has only 11 receptions for 106 yards this season.
Likely was one of the top tight-end prospects in the 2022 NFL Draft. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens with the 139th overall pick, but the Packers could have taken him with the 92nd overall pick or traded down and selected him. Instead, they drafted guard Sean Rhyan, who has not played an offensive snap.
Likely has flashed upside playing behind Mark Andrews this season. He had six receptions for 77 yards and a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Likely or another rookie tight end could have given Aaron Rodgers a much-needed weapon.
This year’s draft class will include many intriguing tight-end prospects led by Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer. He leads the nation with a 92.3 PFF grade. Grabbing Mayer in the first round would be a major victory for the Packers.
