Packers: Brian Gutekunst is right to be open to drafting QB early

Packers: Brian Gutekunst is right to be open to drafting QB early by Freddie Boston

After being released by the Chicago Bears, wide receiver Taylor Gabriel would be a good addition to the Green Bay Packers offense.

The Packers need to add speed on both sides of the ball this offseason. At wide receiver, they need a deep threat who can stretch defenses vertically.

Enter Taylor Gabriel.

The Bears released Gabriel earlier this week in order to free up cap room, but he’s a talented player who could make a difference in Matt LaFleur’s offense.

There’s a reason why Gabriel’s nickname is “Turbo”. Back in 2017, ESPN’s Matt Bowen ranked the top 10 fastest players in the NFL, with Gabriel coming in at No. 9. Bowen noted that Gabriel ran a 4.27 40-time.

Over the past four seasons, Gabriel averaged 12.2 yards per reception and had 14 total touchdowns (13 receiving, one rushing). Five of those touchdowns were of a distance of 25 yards or more.

He played a huge role in the Atlanta Falcons’ offensive dominance in 2016, catching 35 passes for 579 yards and six touchdowns with a career-best 16.5 yards-per-reception average. LaFleur got to see Gabriel’s big performances up close as he was part of the Falcons’ coaching staff.

In Green Bay’s offense, Gabriel would complement Davante Adams and give the Packers a deep threat. They could still use an early-round pick or two at the position, giving them a depth chart featuring Adams, Gabriel, a couple of draft picks and Allen Lazard.

Gabriel doesn’t need to have double-digit targets every week or pile up receiving yards. But he has game-changing talent and can make a huge impact on one play.

The Packers desperately need a receiver with the speed to hurt defenses deep. Gabriel can do that. And given the talent at wide receiver in free agency and the draft, it’s likely signing the former Falcons and Bears pass catcher would be affordable for the Packers and their current salary cap situation.