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Allen Lazard Seems To Hint That He Won’t Re-Sign With Packers

Originally posted on NFL Analysis Network
By Kenneth Teape | Last updated 1/10/23

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Allen Lazard had some big shoes to fill this season. After being a complementary player at the beginning of his professional career, he was going to be relied upon as the No. 1 target in 2022.

Lazard responded by having a very good season. He caught 60 passes for 788 yards, which were both career highs, to go along with six touchdowns as well. Despite the increased role in the passing game, Lazard still got it done as a blocker in the run game, where he may have his biggest impact.

Players willing to do the dirty work, while also producing as a pass catcher, are tough to come by. He has earned the trust of Aaron Rodgers over the last few seasons, something that is no easy task to accomplish.

Following Sunday’s loss to the Detroit Lions, Lazard was asked about what Rodgers could do as there is speculation that he could retire. Allen Lazard’s response quickly turned from Rodgers’ future to his own, as he left little to the imagination when it comes to where he will be in 2023. Odds are, it won’t be Green Bay.

#Packers WR Allen Lazard all but confirms he won’t be returning to Green Bay next season pic.twitter.com/11NbklGuif
— JPA (@jasrifootball) January 9, 2023

That certainly sounds like someone that will be changing addresses once free agency opens up. Lazard did a lot of reflecting in the Week 18 finale, as his first game at Lambeau Field also came against the Lions. He said this was his last game at Lambeau Field, hinting that he will be leaving the franchise that gave him a shot as an undrafted free agent in 2018.

If Lazard departs, it would continue what has become a troubling trend of pass catchers leaving the franchise. During the 2022 offseason, their wide receiver depth was hit hard with Davante Adams being traded to the Las Vegas Raiders and Marquez Valdes-Scantling signing a free agent deal with the Kansas City Chiefs . Equanimeous St. Brown also departed the last offseason, signing with the rival Chicago Bears.

Green Bay was unable to overcome their losses this season and Lazard’s loss would be felt as well. The Packers used two draft picks on Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs in the 2022 NFL Draft, but you can be sure they will be targeting pass catchers again this offseason, especially if Lazard does sign elsewhere as a free agent.

This article first appeared on NFL Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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