A lot of attention on the Green Bay Packers’ tight end group has focused on Jimmy Graham and third round pick Jace Sternberger. One represents the present and the other represents what Green Bay hopes is the future.
There is another intriguing option behind both of those guys and that’s second year player Robert (or as we here at APC call him “Big Bob”) Tonyan.
Tonyan turned some heads during the preseason last year and made one of the biggest plays of 2018 on his 54-yard touchdown catch in Seattle against the Seahawks.
The new coaching staff acknowledges tape is limited on Tonyan, but he has shown some things they can work with and develop. With Marcedes Lewis missing the most recent practices finishing up his degree at UCLA and Sternberger not signing until a few days ago, Tonyan was able to spend time with Graham as well as the lone tight end.
Making big plays during the season is a great way to earn some trust with Rodgers and Tonyan marker that off as a rookie so bonus reps during minicamp only further his chances of making the team.
Sternberger may be the future, but don’t discount Big Bob. Graham is in the twilight of his career and barring a renaissance this year, Tonyan and Sternberger could be tight end tandem of the future for the Packers.
There’s more on Tonyan plus Davante Adams playing scout in today’s cheese curds.
Packers notes: Tight end Robert Tonyan making case for more playing time—PackersNews.com
As far as potential, one could say Big Bob has a Tonyan.
Wrapping up the Packers’ offseason, Matt LaFleur looking for more—Packers.com
LaFleur noted in two-minute situations the defense was ahead of the offense, but that’s to be expected with the offense learning a new system while the defense keeps the same one. LaFleur made it clear he wants more, even if the team is handling the new things well overall.
Davante Adams on Packers rookie S Darnell Savage: ‘We got a steal’—Packers Wire
Adams is one of the top five receivers in the league and the praise he gave Darnell Savage shows how impressive the rookie safety has been thus far. He’ll take his lumps, but if he has Adams’ attention it makes you sit up a little bit.
Packers’ new offense ‘catered’ to WR like Marquez Valdes-Scantling—ESPN
Unlike the previous player who wore no. 83, this coaching staff seems to know what to do with a speedster like Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Aaron Rodgers singled him out for praise as well, so keep an eye on the second-year receiver as a breakout candidate under LaFleur.
Fowl ref! Scotland bring out the rubber chickens at World Cup—Reuters
Rubber chickens aren’t just for comedy. They can also help a professional women’s soccer team cut the tension after an early loss in the World Cup.