What 2022 will look like for Allen Lazard

The Green Bay Packers will have a very intriguing group of receivers that will be tasked with catching passes from Aaron Rodgers. 

Veteran Allen Lazard, who just signed his one-year, $3.986M RFA tender a few weeks ago, is back for another season. Twelve-year veteran and franchise legend Randall Cobb is back for his 10th season in Green Bay. Free-agent receiver Sammy Watkins was brought in on a one-year deal earlier in the offseason. Second-year receiver Amari Rodgers is looking for a bounce-back season in 2021 with the Packers after a tough rookie year. In April's NFL Draft, Green Bay selected rookies Christian Watson (2nd round), Romeo Doubs (fourth round), and Samori Toure (seventh round). GM Brian Gutekunst was forced to make a lot of different moves after the departures of All-Pro Davante Adams and speedster Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Despite all the moving parts and incoming pieces, Allen Lazard appears to be the favorite for leading the team in receiving in 2022. 

The former Iowa State Cyclone is coming off a career year last season. Despite missing two games, he was still able to set career-highs in targets (60), receptions (40), yards (513), and touchdowns (8). Especially in a contract season, Lazard will want to have another career season. He is going to have to. New receivers like Watkins and the three rookies are going to have to spend some time getting up to speed with head coach Matt LaFleur's offense and how Rodgers plays.

Allen Lazard is a unique player because he simply does a lot of things very well. He can obviously catch passes and be a great weapon for Rodgers. But he also is one of the premier run-blocking receivers in the NFL. Standing at 6-5 and weighing close to 230 lbs, defenders have a very difficult time getting around big No. 13. His strength and size is also why he will play a key role in the offense's approach in the red zone. But he can run every route that LaFleur needs him to run. 

Lazard could very well play a key role on special teams. Of course, Green Bay's special teams woes have been well-documented throughout the past few seasons. But the Iowa native has been a bright spot for that unit when given the opportunity. His unselfishness and willingness to play special teams when needed is why he is one of the more beloved teammates in the game.

LaFleur and the Packers have a very talented and versatile player in Lazard. He will very likely lead the team in receiving in 2022 while also adding help on special teams and in run-blocking. He will be a very key factor in whether or not this team can get over the hump and into February.