Replacing Jordy Nelson is easier said than done and the Green Bay Packers could be learning that lesson the hard way. The team is currently trying to pick up the pieces following the loss of their wide receiver for the season. Nelson suffered an ACL tear on Sunday and the Packers confirmed in a released statement that the receiver would miss the entire 2015 season. That puts a huge hole in the offense of Green Bay and one the Packers must try and fill quickly.
ESPN.com reported the Packers were eyeing the free agent market. On Monday, the team put in a call to try and meet with Reggie Wayne. However, the Patriots announced a one-year contract to the veteran, taking him off the market. The best option available is Wes Welker. The slot receiver got some attention in free agency, taking workouts with the Miami Dolphins, but has yet to get any other looks despite injuries piling up. The Packers could bring him in for a workout and sign him to something that would make him an easy release if needed.
According to Bleacher Report's Jason Cole, the Packers could make their move for a replacement once the first round of roster cuts take place. That is certainly a risky option, but potentially the only one Green Bay has. Cole reports that the Packers are open to a reunion with James Jones should he be released from the New York Giants. The team has Odell Beckham Jr and Victor Cruz coming back healthy, but considering their injury history the Giants might opt to keep Jones for depth. Hakeem Nicks is reportedly another option. He might be the odd man out of the Tennessee Titans rotation which is crowded at the receiver position.
ESPN's Rob Demovsky makes the case that the loss of Nelson does nothing to hurt the Packers' title chances. The offense is still stacked despite the injury with quality depth options to step up and help Aaron Rodgers. Eddie Lacy returns as the leading rusher and one of the best in the league. Outside of Randall Cobb, Davante Adams is expected to be the next man up. Fantasy owners would be wise to make a move quickly. Andrew Quarless leads the tight end position, but Richard Rodgers is making improvements as well.
The biggest x-factor will be Lacy. The Packers must utilize the run game more despite having the pass-happy Rodgers under center. The Packers do not have a lot of time to figure things out and be patient in developing players. The Seattle Seahawks roll into town in Week 2 of the regular season.
