Matt LaFleur’s Offense Needs Speed to Thrive

Matt LaFleur’s offensive system relies on speed to function at its highest level. Speed forces defenses to stretch, opens up lanes for both the running and passing games, and creates mismatches across the field. Without this key element, the Green Bay Packers struggle to maintain their offensive rhythm.

Christian Watson: A Game-Changer

Christian Watson embodies the speed that LaFleur’s offense desperately needs. His ability to stretch the field forces multiple defenders into coverage, giving quarterback Jordan Love more opportunities to attack the intermediate zones. Even when Watson isn’t the primary target, his presence alone keeps defenses honest, preventing them from stacking the box or playing aggressive man coverage.

However, Watson’s importance to the Packers has also become a major vulnerability. Without him, Green Bay lacks a true deep threat, and opposing defenses can adjust accordingly. This weakness was exposed in the playoff loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, where Vic Fangio’s defense shut down the Packers’ receivers, leading to three costly interceptions by Love.

The Search for a Replacement Begins

Watson’s absence will be felt significantly this season, and with his potential departure in free agency next spring, the Packers must start planning for the future. They need another elite receiver who can replicate Watson’s field-stretching abilities while also bringing additional skills to the offense.

Enter Luther Burden III, a potential game-changer in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Luther Burden III: The Perfect Fit for Green Bay

Luther Burden III offers everything the Packers need in a wide receiver. The Missouri standout combines elite speed with exceptional route-running and after-the-catch explosiveness. He has the ability to stretch the field vertically, making him an immediate threat in LaFleur’s system.

Despite his talent, there’s a chance Burden could fall to the Packers at No. 23 in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. ESPN’s Matt Miller ranks him as the 13th-best prospect but notes that teams may hesitate due to concerns about his statistical drop-off. Still, his raw ability is undeniable.

Burden’s Impact on the Packers’ Offense

Burden earned an elite 96.7 PFF receiving grade on deep targets last season. He also proved his ability to beat man coverage, averaging 2.93 yards per route run against tight defensive matchups. His skill set aligns perfectly with what Green Bay needs—speed, separation ability, and playmaking after the catch.

NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah compares Burden to Stefon Diggs, highlighting his ability to shift gears and track the ball downfield. Beyond just being a deep threat, Burden could thrive in LaFleur’s quick-passing game, creating yards after the catch and forcing defenders into tough one-on-one situations.

Will the Packers Finally Invest in a First-Round Receiver?

Green Bay has famously avoided drafting a wide receiver in the first round since 2002. However, with Watson’s uncertain future and the need for speed in their offense, this might be the year they break tradition. Burden is a rare talent with Pro Bowl potential, and if he’s available at No. 23, the Packers should seriously consider making the move.

The future of Green Bay’s offense depends on finding a dynamic playmaker. If Burden falls into their lap, it could be the perfect opportunity to reshape the Packers’ attack and keep LaFleur’s system operating at full speed.