The Packers experienced a disappointing season, but their 2022 NFL Draft class was impressive, adding a wealth of young talent that will shape the team’s future. Many of the rookies from the Draft class even made significant contributions to the Packers in 2022.
The question remains: How exceptional was this NFL Draft class for the Packers? The answer is that it has the potential to be one of the most remarkable classes in history, provided everything goes according to plan.
Here’s why the Packers’ 2022 NFL Draft class could be a generational one.
Is the Packers 2022 Draft Class Generational?
Three Wide Receivers With Upside
The Green Bay Packers welcomed three rookie wide receivers – Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Samori Toure – during the 2022 NFL Draft. These newcomers faced various challenges in their debut season, such as adapting to the team’s offensive playbook and adjusting to the fast-paced nature of the NFL. However, the biggest obstacle they encountered was building chemistry with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. In Rodgers’ final year with the Packers, he did not participate in offseason workouts and had limited practice time with Watson, Doubs, and Toure.
Additionally, Rodgers did not play in the preseason, making it even more difficult for the rookies to understand his hand signals and audibles. Consequently, they often appeared confused on the field and struggled to establish a connection with Rodgers. It became evident that Rodgers only had a rapport with Allen Lazard or Randall Cobb, leading to a lackluster start to the season for the offense.
During the latter half of the season last year, the connection significantly improved. Christian Watson emerged as a star player against the Dallas Cowboys, with over 100 yards receiving and three touchdowns. He ended up scoring a total of nine touchdowns throughout the season, which was the most among all rookie wide receivers.
Romeo Doubs performed consistently until an ankle injury hindered his progress for a significant portion of his debut season. However, upon his return, he demonstrated glimpses of his potential to become a valuable player for the Packers in the future.
Samori Toure was afforded limited opportunities but showcased immense promise whenever he was on the field. Despite being frequently open, Aaron Rodgers hesitated to pass to him.
This year, all three of these receivers are expected to have greater roles on offense for the Packers. Moreover, unlike Aaron Rodgers, the new starting quarterback Jordan Love has trained with them during the offseason this year. Earlier this year, Waston, Doubs, and Aaron Jones were in California working with Love before the OTAs. It should be a big year for all three of these promising wide receivers.
Zach Tom Is a Potential Future Pro Bowler
The Green Bay Packers have a reputation for being exceptional at identifying, drafting, and nurturing offensive linemen, and it seems they may have discovered another promising talent in Zach Tom. As a rookie last season, Tom’s performance on the field was impressive. Despite giving up only one sack, which some argue was not entirely his fault, the young player was the highest-rated pass blocker among all rookie offensive linemen.
Tom’s versatility is another strength, as he can play almost any position on the offensive line. It is expected that he will be named a starter on the team’s offensive line this year, as he is one of their top five players. Undoubtedly, Zach Tom represents the future of the Packers’ offensive line.
Quay Walker Is a Solid Linebacker
Quay Walker was one of the Packer’s two first-round picks in the 2022 NFL Draft. As a rookie, he had a mixed season. In the early stages, he had a steep learning curve and struggled at times on the field. However, this is understandable as he was new to the NFL and adjusting to the demands of the game. Towards the end of the season, he showed significant improvement and played with more speed and confidence.
He finished the season with the highest number of tackles among all rookies – an impressive 119. Additionally, an interesting fact about Walker is that in 2022, he allowed a catch rate of only 50%, which was second only to Fred Warner, widely considered the best linebacker in the league. Notably, he is also skilled at pressuring the opposing quarterback. It is safe to say that we can expect great things from Quay Walker this year in the Packers’ defense.
Kingsley Enagbare Is a Possible Late-Round Gem
During the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the Packers were fortunate enough to acquire Kingsley Enagbare. As a rookie, he played as the team’s third edge rusher, with Preston Smith and Rashan Gary taking the lead. Enagbare played a vital role in the team’s defense, being part of a solid rotation. When Gary was injured mid-season, Enagbare’s playtime increased significantly, and he stepped up to help the team push for a playoff spot. His performance showed a lot of potential, and he will have a more significant role on defense this season. If he can live up to his potential, he might end up being a major steal for the Packers.
Devonte Wyatt Has Unlimited Potential
Devonte Wyatt was selected as the Packer’s top pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, as a rookie, he did not receive many opportunities on defense, which was surprising. The Packers made a mistake by not giving him more playing time to aid his development. Nevertheless, when former Packer, Dean Lowry, was injured and placed on injured reserve, Wyatt was given more snaps and performed exceptionally well. The defensive line, as a whole, improved when Wyatt had more playing time.
The only major concern is his age, as he entered the NFL at the age of 24 and just turned 25, meaning that results are expected quickly. This year, Wyatt is expected to be the starter, and we hope he takes a significant leap in his second year to enhance the Packers’ defensive line.
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