As quarterback Aaron Rodgers ponders his future in the NFL, the Green Bay Packers are planning for wide receiver Allen Lazard to be part of their offense no matter who is under center.
Green Bay is open to Rodgers returning in 2023, on one condition, but there is extreme confidence in Jordan Love if he starts next season. While the franchise is uncertain of who its starting quarterback will be for the first time in decades, there are clear plans for the weaponry around the signal-caller.
- Allen Lazard stats (2022): 60 receptions, 788 receiving yards, 45 first downs
Needing to create cap space, Green Bay altered running back Aaron Jones’ contract to ensure his return in 2023. The front office also intends to keep All-Pro tackle David Bakhtiari, despite his large cap hit, and there is interest in re-signing tight end Robert Tonyan. While the franchise awaits a decision from Rodgers, it is taking steps toward other moves this spring.
According to Heavy.com’s Matt Lombardo, the Packers are pursuing a contract with Lazard before free agency opens. However, the uncertainty surrounding Rodgers is hanging over the effort.
“Rodgers’ situation and whether the Packers are able to trade the veteran quarterback could decide Lazard’s future. That’s because Green Bay is approximately $8.5 million over the cap as the offseason begins.”
Undrafted in 2018, Lazard started his NFL career on the Jacksonville Jaguars practice squad. Green Bay then signed him to its active roster in December 2018 and he made his debut shortly after.
- Allen Lazard's career stats: 169 receptions, 2,236 receiving yards, and 20 touchdowns in 57 games
After developing for several years and playing a secondary role, Lazard emerged as one of the Packers’ top offensive weapons in 2022. He set career highs across the board, with a two-game absence likely costing him a shot at crossing the 900-yard mark.
The emergence of Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs would likely shift Lazard back into a more complementary role next season. However, the 6-foot-5 receiver is an outstanding blocker for his position and that makes him extremely valuable in Matt LaFleur’s scheme.
While the Packers likely won’t make any big additions this offseason, re-signing Lazard is clearly one of the front office’s top priorities. No matter who is starting at quarterback next season, Lazard would play a necessary role in the offense.
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