With one Pre-season game still to go, the Packers roster is about to enter final cuts. Some positions on the team have already undergone cuts, while others still have decisions to be made.
Since Kylin Hill has hit the PUP list, the Packers need to find a third string running back to start the season. Currently, Patrick Taylor, Tyler Goodson, and Dexter Williams have been chosen to battle it out for the final spot. This battle is shaping up to stretch until cut down day next week.
Based solely on usage and statistics, it appears Goodson and Taylor are the two who are really battling for the roster spot. Goodson and Taylor have taken the most reps in practice and also played the most in each pre-season game. Williams, a Packers sixth round pick in 2019, is looking to make the Packers roster again after playing for 5 practice squads in the last two years.
A Tough Decision Ahead for the Packers
Patrick Taylor is a second year undrafted free agent from Memphis. Taylor saw some limited action for the Packers last year and also scored a touchdown against the Lions. So far through the pre-season, Taylor has 11 carries for 37 yards and no receptions.
Tyler Goodson is an undrafted rookie from Iowa. Goodson rushed for 2551 career yards and 18 touchdowns but struggled to stay consistent and left college as a junior. During the draft, many analysts pointed to Goodson as a raw prospect and he has shown flashes in camp. He has been the most used back so far with 22 carries for 79 yards as well as three receptions for 24 yards.
Dexter Williams is a third year, dynamic player from Notre Dame. Williams has struggled to stick with any team so far in his career, but he offers versatility during special teams. He has rushed for 53 yards on eight carries so far during the pre-season.
As nice as the statistics for each of them are, this contest may very well come down to other factors.
Special Teams Performance a Dominant Factor in Packers Decision
Head coach Matt LaFleur and special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia have spoken about what they are looking for in order to earn a remaining roster spot. Both have pointed out that special teams and pass protection will heavily play into who wins the job. Many players, including the running back trio, are trying to learn new units and prove their worth as reliable special teams players for the Packers.
Bisaccia has long had impressive special teams units with the Chargers, Cowboys, Raiders, and now hopefully the Packers. The Packers were the least penalized team last year, but mental errors hurt the team most. At times in 2021, the Packers seemed a bit lost. However, Bisaccia is the man who can correct that and ultimately the man responsible for shaping the future third string running back into a great special teamer.
It’s been a close race and it’ll be sad to see any one of them go. In all likelihood, there’s only going to be room for one more running back on the roster behind AJ Dillon and Aaron Jones.
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