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In a late-Friday night preseason game, the Packers took on the Oakland Raiders and former fan-favorite, Jordy Nelson. He was quiet, though, and this article is about what Packer players are trending upwards for fantasy purposes. Some of these players won’t be worth the draft pick in redraft leagues, but if you’re taking part in your first dynasty league or looking to add some free agents, there’s some value in these players.
Trending Up
Geronimo Allison, WR
Geronimo only recorded two catches during the first half of play, but turned them into 40 yards. Allison has been relatively quiet with plenty of attention being paid to the three rookie wide receivers and preseason darling Jake Kumerow, but on Friday night, Allison reminded people he should be the WR3 — if not for his veteran standing, then for his crisp routes. He should also have the trust of Aaron Rodgers to be in the right place at the right time. Allison’s ADP is currently hovering around the late 13th round.
Packers Defense
WHAT?! You’re darn right. The Packers defense has looked spotty at times this preseason, but during the first half of the Raiders game—where a lot of starters played—they looked good! Reggie Gilbert continues to be a menace in the backfield. Josh Jackson continues to display his uncanny ability to force turnovers and Jaire Alexander got his first pick of the preseason. Depth doesn’t appear to be too strong, but they’re heading in the right direction.
J’Mon Moore, WR
It looks like that time spent in front of the jugs machine is starting to pay off. He brought in four catches for 62 yards and looked a lot more polished in running his routes, even managing to hang on to a ball where he got crunched by a safety in the fourth. The play subsequently drew a “defenseless receiver” penalty. Eight targets went Moore’s way, so it was evident that both Hundley and Kizer were gaining trust in the rookie as the game progressed.
Trending Down
Ty Montgomery, RB
I keep knocking Montgomery after these preseason games, but this time I have a legitimate reason. He injured his foot during the first quarter after getting the start. He finished with four carries for 12 yards. No other running back did much better as the offensive line played like they had never learned to run block before.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR
I’m still fairly excited about MVS, but he hasn’t continued to trend upwards in the preseason games. Posting one catch for 15 yards against the Titans and zero catches on three targets against the Raiders is less than ideal when you couple that with a special teams fumble on Friday night. Luckily, it sounds like MVS is still putting together really good practices during the week.