Following the Green Bay Packers’ playoff departure last season, running back Josh Jacobs openly advocated for the team to acquire a well-established No. 1 wide receiver. After the Packers’ lackluster offensive display in their wild-card defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles, Jacobs emphasized the necessity of securing a top-tier receiver during an interview with a local radio station. “Our receiver group is really young; they all have the potential to be exceptional,” Jacobs remarked on Milwaukee’s 97.3 The Game earlier in the offseason. “But personally, I think we need someone who’s already proven themselves as a No. 1—a reliable, consistent presence.”
The Packers’ receiving lineup is youthful and diverse but lacks a definitive receiving threat. Since trading Davante Adams to the Las Vegas Raiders, they haven’t had a receiver surpass 1,000 yards. Moreover, Christian Watson is expected to miss the beginning of the 2025 season as he recovers from an ACL tear sustained late last year.
Love addressed Jacobs’s recommendation for a premier receiver during a discussion with Sports Illustrated, in conjunction with Toyota’s initiative to cover registration fees for all NFL FLAG football teams within a 25-mile radius of Green Bay. Love expressed confidence in the current roster but also mentioned he wouldn’t oppose adding more talent through the upcoming draft.
“Our receiver room is already quite strong,” Love stated. “Josh is suggesting we might need a veteran, some seasoned leadership. We do have many younger players, but they’ve gained significant experience since joining us. Regardless of who we have or might add, it’s all about our determination to be the best we can.” With the draft approaching, Love anticipates adding a few receivers to the squad and hinted at a player from his alma mater, Utah State, whom he wouldn’t mind seeing on the team due to the talent from the Aggies.
Love was likely alluding to Utah State wide receiver Jalen Royals, who is considered one of this year’s top receiving prospects, ranked 63rd overall by SI’s Daniel Flick. Royals made 55 receptions for 834 yards and six touchdowns last season and is expected to be picked in the mid-rounds. Despite not having a true No. 1 receiver, the Packers’ offense ranked among the top five in the NFL last season. However, with Watson sidelined, bolstering the position’s depth could enhance their chances for a successful postseason run.