With eight practices down in training camp, the excitement continues to grow as the NFL season is just a few weeks away. With more practices comes more updates and highlights. Here’s everything you need to know about the Packers recent practices.
Matthew Golden WR
It seems first-round rookie wide receiver, Matthew Golden, is off to an excellent start and is settling in more with each practice. On Tuesday Golden stated, “It’s definitely starting to slow down for me, it’s starting to feel like I can go out there and just play and have fun, not have to think about what I need to do. It’s just going out there getting open, knowing my assignment and alignment.”
Golden, who ran a 4.29 40 time prior to the draft, has been putting his speed on display in camp. On Tuesday, Golden managed to get behind cornerback Nate Hobbs and safety Evan Williams which resulted in a 54-yard touchdown reception.
Offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich stated “He reminds me of a lot of the wide receivers from a couple years ago that we had that just are really hard-working guys, very diligent, doing everything that he can do off the field to just be prepared for practice…”
He then added “You just really respect his work ethic so far, and I think that’s going to go far in allowing him to play fast when his opportunity’s called.” What more can you ask of the rookie wide receiver?
Golden made it clear that he has already formed a solid relationship with quarterback Jordan Love, “I can go to him and ask him. He gives me a lot of feedback on different routes or anything he thinks I should do differently.”
The Love to Golden connection could be one to watch this season if the rookie settles in well in real time. Many will be eager to see the first-round talent play.
Brandon McManus K
After much drama at the kicker position last season, the Packers may have found their answer in Brandon McManus.
The veteran kicker, who just turned 34 years old, has had a near perfect camp so far. Heading into Thursday’s practice, McManus had been a perfect 25/25 during practices. His first miss came on a 49 yarder with a decent amount of wind in his face.
Earlier this week, head coach Matt LaFleur was asked if McManus’ kicking gives him any peace of mind. LaFleur responded with “I don’t even think about it. It’s great.”
It was clear that the departure of Mason Crosby was going to be difficult to fill after several failed attempts with rookie kickers. Hopefully McManus continues to be automatic throughout the season and doesn’t provide any unnecessary stress.
MarShawn Lloyd RB
MarShawn Lloyd has yet to have the opportunity put his talents on display. Despite being a former third round pick in the 2024 draft, Lloyd missed almost his entire rookie season due to injuries.
In practice on Monday, it appeared that Lloyd suffered another injury. What was originally reported as a non-contact injury has since been determined to be a groin injury. Head coach Matt LaFleur provided an updated stating, “It’s not going to be a long-term deal, but I wouldn’t anticipate him practicing this week.”
Packers running back Josh Jacobs had this to add “Oh, he’s going to be all right, man.” The opportunity for Lloyd to learn behind Josh Jacobs provides so much potential for the running back room.
If Lloyd can remain healthy, I firmly believe he will be a solid RB2 behind Jacobs. With this most recent injury being short term, let’s all remain hopeful that Lloyd can finally put his talents on display this season.
Packers Family Night is scheduled for August 2nd. Let’s enjoy the fun night before the season gets even closer and the real test begins.
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