Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Possible Packers: Randall Cobb

I think it's a real possibility that the Packers take a WR with their first-round pick. Wait, you say, a wide receiver? Don't we already have the NFL's consensus best receiving corp? Yes. But think about it; it's not as crazy as it sounds.

Let's do a brief evaluation of what the Pack has at wide-receiver. Greg Jennings has finally broken out as a true star at the position. Jordy Nelson's future also looks pretty bright. But Donald Driver's age is finally starting to catch up with him at age 36 and there's no telling how much longer he'll be productive. James Jones has a lot of physical talent and he's had moments of brilliance, but Nelson's elevation (due to Jones' drop problems) coupled with his desire to be a starting NFL receiver may mean he seeks greener pastures. And finally, Brett Swain really isn't anything to write home about.

So where does that leave us? Potentially, it leaves the Packers with only two viable WRs moving forward. Certainly the return of Jermichael Finley will be a boost to the passing game, but shouldn't Ted Thompson and Co. do their best to provide Aaron Rodgers with all the weapons he needs? People often say that Tom Brady was able to win Super Bowls with a weak supporting cast around him. But didn't he have his best year when the Patriots got him this guy?

You may disagree, but I think it's in the Packers' best interest to pick up another talented receiver. It doesn't necessarily have to be in the first-round, but if they do address this need with the 32nd overall pick, I have a guy in mind.

Kentucky's Randall Cobb is the type of all-purpose threat that the Packers lack. He may be this year's Dexter McCluster--a threat as a runner, returner, and receiver. Last year, he totaled 13 TDs (4 of them against the eventual NCAA champion Auburn) and almost 1700 yards. He had a mind-boggling 211 touches, 84 catches. Oh, and did I mention that he can pass the ball too? Not that I'm advocating for the Packers to utilize the Wildcat, but is always nice to have an athlete like Cobb who can also rear up and throw the ball down field every once in a while.

At 5'10, Cobb doesn't have a lot of size, but he'd probably be playing in the slot for the Packers anyway. This is a guy who could help out the Packers woeful return game immediately. I actually think he could make the type of impact Percy Harvin has made over in Minnesota. His scintillating athleticism and ability to contribute in a variety of ways could be just the what the Packers need to make them a truly unstoppable offensive juggernaut.



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