Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur answered questions from the assembled media for 15 minutes on Tuesday at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Here are some of the highlights from the press conference:
– LaFleur said bringing back veteran kicker Mason Crosby was important for the special teams. “Just that continuity within our three specialists is huge.”
– LaFleur said he’s excited to build on the foundation and “refine” some of the offense with Aaron Rodgers in 2020. “He knows exactly what to expect going into Year 2.”
– LaFleur believes the Packers’ defensive backs will be “receptive” to new coach Jerry Gray, who he described as “calming” and confident” as a coach. “He’s going to bring a lot of value to our staff and our whole team.”
– LaFleur confirmed the Packers are working through the various options at receivers coach, a position left vacant since the team let go of Alvis Whitted. “Yes, we are going to hire a receivers coach.”
– LaFleur said the Packers would like to add (or find) a third option behind Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams at running back. “That’s one of the tougher positions to play. You always need multiple guys to get to the finish line.”
– LaFleur is excited to be in the same place for a second year. He thinks it’ll allow for time to scan the rest of the league and find the successful trends and schemes that teams are using.
– LaFleur pointed to the “leadership qualities” of Za’Darius Smith as transformative for the Packers in 2019.
– LaFleur said the Packers aren’t looking for specific types of receivers. “We’re all looking for the guys that can separate and make plays.” Mentioned it’s more about finding what a player can do and making the most of it than targeting a specific type of player.
– LaFleur said there’s a “big learning curve” for young receivers. “It takes time” to learn NFL offenses and get on the same page as the quarterback, especially Aaron Rodgers.
– LaFleur and the coaches are “assigned” position groups to evaluate during the draft. Called it a “collaborative” process, although the coaches provide a “small piece” of the puzzle.
– LaFleur said tight ends coach Justin Outten did an “outstanding job” developing Jace Sternberger in 2019. “He was playing some good ball at the end of the season.”
– LaFleur confirmed there was “no doubt” Mike Pettine would be back as the defensive coordinator in 2020, despite the Packers’ meltdown in the NFC title game. “I’m not going to make a rash decision based on one game.”
– LaFleur said Allen Lazard “did a great job” in 2019. “He earned every right he got.” Pointed to his effort, intensity and intelligence, plus his willingness to earn it on special teams.
– LaFleur said he’d like for Tyler Ervin to return in 2020. Noted the turnaround of the return game after claiming him off waivers. Ervin also played some snaps on offense. “If I have my way, I’d love to have him back.”
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