2014 NFL Draft Analysis: Packers Select TE Richard Rodgers

After shoring up the receiving corps for the foreseeable future, Packers GM Ted Thompson turned his attention to finding a pass catching tight end. With most of the "name" tight ends had already come off the board, Thompson turned to Cal's productive Richard Rodgers.

Rodgers, a former wide receiver, certainly fits the bill of an athletic pass catcher. Few tight ends averaged more yards per catch (15.6) than he did in 2013. At 6-4, 257 pounds, Rodgers can create matchup nightmares for linebackers over the middle. He also projects as a fine red zone target even though he only caught one touchdown last season.

With Andrew Quarless currently atop the Packers' depth chart at tight end, adding Rodgers can be seen as picking for need. Certainly, few expected to hear his name come off the board before Day 3 of the 2014 NFL Draft. However, Thompson has a proven his acumen for finding quality tight ends in the past, with Jermichael Finley coming off the board in the same range back in 2008.

Speaking of Finley, this selection would seem to signal the end of his tenure in Green Bay. While optimism grew over the past few months that Finley could return due to the lack of interest elsewhere, it's hard to see Thompson bringing him back with Rodgers, Quarless, Brandon Bostick, Ryan Taylor, and Jake Stoneburner already on the roster.