Green Bay Packers wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling is poised for a breakout season. The fourth-year wideout was lighting up the practice field during training camp, seemingly making a big play almost every day. However, it is almost time to see if he can do it during the regular season and on a consistent basis.
In the past, Valdes-Scantling could produce a big game or play every few weeks. He has yet to see his yards per catch fall below 15.0, but he still hasn’t hit the 40 receptions mark in a single season.
No one can deny Valdes-Scantling’s talent. He says he is the fastest player on the roster, which is easy to believe when watching him take the top off a defense when tracking down a deep pass from Aaron Rodgers. However, consistency has been Valdes-Scantling’s biggest hurdle. Whether it’s limiting drops or finding consistent ways to get open, the 26-year-old receiver has yet to reach his full potential.
Head coach Matt LaFleur says he has seen a change in Valdes-Scantling’s approach in his fourth training camp. One that should lead to a more dependable pass-catcher.
“It’s consistent,” LaFleur of Valdes-Scantling’s daily mindset. “His whole demeanor around the building has been consistent, and he’s been A+.”
“We’re really excited about what he can do for this football team.”
LaFleur referenced Valdes-Scantling’s big-play ability, which resulted in an NFL-leading 20.9 yards per catch in 2020.
“This guy has created a lot of explosive plays for us, and I think what we’ve seen in practice is the consistency in which those plays are being executed,” said LaFleur.
LaFleur has also taken notice of Valdes-Scantling’s improved route running. The speedy wide receiver has more attention to detail in his routes and is getting in and out of breaks quicker than in previous years. Valdes-Scantling may not be just a deep ball threat much longer.
He said he did not change anything from his offseason regimen. In fact, this year, he spent more time away from the game. Maybe a new focus and time with more experienced players are what is helping him become a better football player.
“I’m still the same guy,” Valdes-Scantling stated during his Thursday press conference, but having three seasons under your belt and a great receiver room certainly has its perks.
“You learn different things; you get taught things from the older vets who have been in the room and been in your position, and just adapt it and keep it rolling.”
Packers receiver Davante Adams found himself in a similar position not long ago. Adams’ first two seasons were inconsistent with a few highs and plenty of lows. In year three, everything started to click as he finished just three yards away from 1,000. Now, it’s an expectation.
Valdes-Scanting is still waiting to hit the 1,000 yards receiving mark for the first time in his career. Perhaps, this season is the first time since 2014 that Green Bay produces two 1,000-yard receivers.
Even though Valdes-Scantling isn’t focused on his stats, consistency is something to keep track of during his 2021 campaign.
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