5 burning questions ahead of Packers and Vikings Week 1 matchup

Royce Newman is shown during the Green Bay Packers organized team activities (OTA) Tuesday, May 24, 2022 in Green Bay, Wis.Mjs Packers25 35 Jpg Packers25
Royce Newman is shown during the Green Bay Packers organized team activities (OTA) Tuesday, May 24, 2022 in Green Bay, Wis.Mjs Packers25 35 Jpg Packers25 /
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Green Bay Packers wide receiver Allen Lazard participates in minicamp practice Wednesday, June 9, 2021, in Green Bay, Wis. Cent02 7g5lro8vw2ps94uh71c Original /

Will Allen Lazard play for the Green Bay Packers?

The Green Bay Packers already have plenty of questions surrounding their wide receiver position entering the 2022 season, and now they may be without Aaron Rodgers’ top target for the first game.

Allen Lazard was once again a non-participant during Wednesday’s practice after head coach Matt LaFleur told us that Lazard had been stepped on last week, which is why he has been absent.

Without Lazard, that is one less trusted target for Rodgers to lean on. Over the last few seasons, Lazard has provided the Packers with a reliable option on third downs and in the red zone. He’s also been a very willing run-blocker.

Lazard has been at his most efficient from the slot but would likely spend more time on the boundary with Randall Cobb lined up inside. If Lazard can’t play, we will see more of Romeo Doubs, who certainly flashed this summer, but he also suffered from drops as well as not running the right route at times. With Doubs, as well as Christian Watson, there are going to be growing pains.

If you’re looking for a silver lining, Rob Demovsky of ESPN would mention that Lazard has been testing that ankle during practices by running on the sidelines. We will wait and see if he gets upgraded on Thursday or Friday.