Green Bay Packers: 10 Quick Observations from Matchup w/ Jets

The Green Bay Packers lost their second preseason game to the New York Jets, but who really cares? It is the preseason, after all. More importantly, we got another live look at many players who find themselves on the roster bubble with final roster cuts just over a week away.

After combing through the game a second time, here are my 10 quick observations from the Green Bay Packers’ performance.

This was a big opportunity for Malik Taylor

Juwann Winfree, Devin Funchess, and Equanimeous St. Brown were all held out of Saturday’s game against New York, which created a huge opportunity for Malik Taylor that he took advantage of. Taylor was on the field for 71 percent of the offensive snaps and caught four of his five targets — including a beautiful back-shoulder grab down the sidelines — for 66 yards with a long of 23.

In addition to making plays as a pass-catcher, we’ve seen Taylor do the little things that come with being on an NFL roster, such as making blocks and helping on special teams. Perhaps that could be what distinguishes him from the other receivers who he’s competing with for a roster spot. Taylor is making it very difficult to keep him off the final 53.

What about St. Brown and Funchess?

In St. Brown’s case, he’s missed a good amount of time this summer, and when he has been on the field, he hasn’t consistently stood out. At this point, I can’t envision him working his way onto the final roster.

With Funchess, I’m not sure what to think. He was very good against Houston and has been solid in many practices as well. But again, I ask the question, will the Green Bay Packers keep a sixth receiver who brings minimal special teams experience? Certainly, some difficult decisions will have to be made by Matt LaFleur.

Does the team keep Funchess or Taylor? Do they keep six wide receivers or seven?

The battle at guard

Royce Newman got the start at right guard, and other than stepping on Kurt Benkert’s foot, he continued to play well, just as he had done all week. He was steady in pass protection, and along with Ben Braden at tackle, the duo created some nice running lanes on the right side of the offensive line.

With limited options at tackle, Braden spent quite a bit of time there while Lucas Patrick was at center, where he was called for two holding penalties on one drive. Meanwhile, Jon Runyan — along with the rest of the offensive line — played much better than what he did a week ago.

After a strong week of practices with the starting offense coupled with his performance on Saturday, Newman may be the front-runner for the right guard opening at this time–although a lot can change over the next week. And when it comes to Runyan, Patrick, and Braden at left guard, I’m still not sure who emerges.