Packers Training Camp Roster Battles: Grant DuBose vs. Malik Heath

The Green Bay Packers’ wide receiver position is filled with uncertainty, from the top of the depth chart to the final roster spot. Among the players vying for that spot are Grant DuBose and Malik Heath.

DuBose was selected in the seventh round of this year’s draft from Charlotte, while Heath went undrafted from Ole Miss. Despite their different paths to the NFL, both players offer exciting potential for Green Bay. Now, let’s delve into the competition between these two promising wideouts and see how their battle unfolds during training camp.

What are they battling for?

The battle between Grant DuBose and Malik Heath will revolve around securing the sixth spot on the Packers’ wide receiver depth chart. Currently, the top five spots are occupied by Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, Samori Toure, and Dontayvion Wicks. However, the battle can’t be discounted, considering the injuries Watson and Doubs struggled with during their rookie campaigns and the inexperience and unproven nature of the wide receiver room.

Green Bay has shown flexibility in the past, keeping anywhere from five to seven receivers on the roster during Matt LaFleur’s tenure as head coach. As training camp and preseason kick-off, both DuBose and Heath will have the opportunity to showcase their talents and make a strong case for that coveted sixth spot. The dynamic of this unit remains uncertain, and their performances in the upcoming practices and games will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the Packers’ wide receiver corps for the 2023 season.

In a preview of the Green Bay Packers roster battles heading into training camp, Grant DuBose and Malik Heath will compete at wide receiver.

Why it should be Grant DuBose:

Brian Gutekunst’s tendency to favor his own draft picks might give DuBose an edge in the roster battle against Heath. The seventh-round selection has inherent support from the general manager, potentially leveling the playing field despite missing valuable offseason time due to injury.

During his college career, DuBose showcased his strength and knack for making contested catches. He brought that same physicality to his blocking, where he wasn’t afraid to mix it up and get a body on someone. These attributes add to his appeal and make him a player worth keeping an eye on during training camp and preseason.

Why it should be Malik Heath:

Heath emerged as a standout during Organized Team Activities and minicamp, catching the attention of the coaching staff with his impressive performance. Despite coming seemingly out of nowhere, he made a significant impact and earned recognition for his efforts.

However, as training camp begins, all players start with a clean slate, and Heath must build on his earlier success to solidify his position. His strong start is just the beginning, and he must continue to showcase his skills and potential throughout camp.

While he may lack explosive speed, Heath compensates with good height and length, attributes that can be valuable in the receiving game. Maximizing his potential as a receiver will be crucial for him to secure a roster spot with the team.

As the competition intensifies during training camp, Heath will need to prove that his standout performances were not a fluke. Consistency and continued improvement will be the keys for him to earn a spot on the Packers’ roster and make a lasting impact in the wide receiver room.