Green Bay Packers players with most to prove in 2020 training camp
By Joe Kipp
2. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR
The Packers have a need for speed on offense, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling may be the only remedy. The only problem is the speedy receiver has been wildly inconsistent in his two seasons as a pro, largely due to injuries and a lack of confidence.
Valdes-Scantling, a former 2018 fifth-round draft choice, got off to a nice start last season but tailed off at the halfway point. He suffered an ankle injury and wasn’t anywhere close to his early-season form. In his first seven games, Valdes-Scantling racked up 21 receptions for 416 yards and two touchdowns. He ultimately finished the season with 26 receptions for 452 yards and two touchdowns.
Green Bay needs Valdes-Scantling to stay healthy and to play up to his potential. He helps stretch the field and enables the Packers to open up the play-action. Additionally, Green Bay had the slowest receiver group in the NFL last season based on 40-yard dash times, according to NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah. Just having MVS on the field helps the entire offense.
The Packers have a lot of unproven talent at receiver this season, but that doesn’t mean Valdes-Scantling’s spot is safe. He’ll likely make the final roster, but he needs to show during training camp that he can be trusted to be on the field in critical moments.