Is rookie Romeo Doubs the new Packers WR1?
The Green Bay Packers' offense started slowly Sunday, scoring only seven first-half points against the Patriots. When Aaron Rodgers found himself looking for an answer in the second half, it was not veteran Randall Cobb, second-round pick Christian Watson or presumptive WR1 Allen Lazard he looked for. It was fourth-round rookie wide receiver Romeo Doubs.
The slow start began with a mistake by Doubs, who fumbled a screen pass on the Packers' opening possession. It seemed this could be another instance of Rodgers losing trust early in a rookie wide receiver, as he did with Watson in Week 1. Instead, Doubs became the de facto No. 1 target when Rodgers needed one.
A vintage back shoulder fade from Rodgers tied the score late in the fourth quarter. Doubs, who tied Lazard for targets with eight, opened up to his left to haul in his second touchdown reception in as many games.
On the following drive, Rodgers again went to Doubs on a third down with a chance to win the game. Although the ground caused the ball to fall incomplete in the end zone, Rodgers showed confidence to go to Doubs with the game on the line.
Rodgers touched on this following the win, saying, "I told (Doubs) after the game, I'm going to keep coming to you. I'm proud of you. That was an awesome last drive."
The two end-zone shots may have received the most attention, but the trust in Doubs was most evident on the final drive in overtime.
Rodgers twice checked out of run plays to throw quick hot routes to Doubs. The rookie not only was ready for both checks, but he also picked up key yardage after the catch to get the team into field goal position.
These checks and back shoulder throws are extremely familiar for Rodgers. They were reminiscent of his connections over the years with Jordy Nelson and Davante Adams.
Doubs has a long way to go before joining that company, but it appears he has already gained the confidence of his All-Pro quarterback.
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