Picking an overrated player, as our NFL Wire network just did this week, is a difficult task. Doing it right requires a strong understanding of the outside assessment of the team and its players while also factoring in a strong opinion on the actual value of individual players.
My attempt at the exercise brought me to safety Darnell Savage, a first-round pick with incredible physical attributes who flashed as an elite player for at least half a season in 2020 but also struggled at times as a young player and again over a full season in 2021.
Here was my full explanation of picking Savage:
This was a tough one. We actually picked Savage as the team’s breakout player in 2022, so also having him as the “most overrated” is a little tough to square. But it’s truly tough to know where Savage’s career is heading after a disappointing third season. He’s fast as the wind, and the Packers think he can be a versatile playmaker, but there’s been too many missed opportunities, too many missed tackles and too many big plays allowed, especially last season. If everything comes together, Savage could be a Pro Bowler. But there’s also a chance he’s just a really fast defensive back with some warts that won’t go away. The Packers have and can win with Savage, but will he reach his potential as one of the game’s best safeties? Who knows.
Savage could become an elite player. He was highly regarded (and rightfully so) after playing at a truly high level to end the 2020 season, so we know he can get there. But can he return to that level after a rocky third season in which he missed too many plays, coverages and tackles? There’s no doubting his combination of skills. Maybe there was a learning curve in Joe Barry’s defense, and he’ll improve during his second season in the scheme. Maybe, in Year 4 as a starter, the lightbulb will come on and stay on, and Savage will make this all look silly.
It’s a big season for him. The Packers picked up his fifth-year option, meaning he’s under contract through the 2023 season. But for Green Bay’s defense to reach elite levels, Savage must play better. He could tip the scales from good to great for the entire group.
So, who do you think is the Packers’ most overrated player entering 2022? Let us know in our poll, in the comments section or on Twitter.
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