Packers may have a secret weapon on offense: 'I feel like I've made a big jump'

The expectations for second-year wide receiver Samori Toure may not be high for the average fan of the Green Bay Packers. After all, he was a seventh-round draft pick in 2022 and caught just five passes during his rookie season.

While it would appear that Toure is nothing more than a depth player on Green Bay's roster, Packers receivers coach/passing game coordinator Jason Vrable didn't seem to think so during OTAs in May. After putting on eight pounds of muscle, Vrable said that Toure was unrecognizable.

Heading into 2023, Toure believes that he'll make a notable difference.

"I feel like I've made a big jump," Toure told the Packers' website. "That's something that's been consistent with me, even throughout college. I've been able to make a lot of progress throughout each year. It's just a matter of being comfortable with the system, the playbook, the speed of play and all that."

The added weight to his lean frame is one thing.

"I didn't do a lot of stuff different, but I just feel like I was more intentional in the weight room," Toure explained. "I've got a pretty wiry body, so honestly, I put on eight pounds and I really don't even notice but I can definitely feel a difference. I feel more explosive. I feel stronger."

Toure also has a nice rapport with QB Jordan Love considering both of their stints with the second-team offense and scout team last season. Love is now Green Bay's starting quarterback with Aaron Rodgers on the New York Jets. Toure will be competing for playing time behind the likes of fellow second-year receivers Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs (rookie Jayden Reed will also get a strong opportunity to make plays), but one has to imagine Toure's connection with Love could play into his favor.

It's also worth noting that head coach Matt LaFleur sees the makings of a good receiver in the former Nebraska Cornhusker.

"He's a guy that we definitely have high hopes for," LaFleur said. "He has the tools necessary that you look for in terms of being able to separate. He has them in his body. He possesses those. It's just continuing to get more and more reps."