Could a standout rookie season lead to a breakout sophomore season for Green Bay Packers receiver Jayden Reed? NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks thinks so.
In his 2024 All-Breakout TeamBrooks tapped Reed — who led the Packers in receiving as a rookie — as one of three wide receivers expected to breakout this season.
From Brooks: “On a team without a true WR1, Reed could climb into the top spot as a reliable chain operator with strong hands and dynamic running skills. Operating primarily outside the market, the second-year pro is a rare find as a vertical threat with polished route-running skills that allow him to win on crosses, kicks and deep overs. Reed earned Jordan Love’s trust during a strong rookie season (64 catches, 793 yards and eight scores), putting the former second-round pick on the radar as a potential No. 1 option in Green Bay. These two should make even sweeter music in their second season.”
As a rookie, Reed led the Packers in receptions (64), receiving yards (793) and total touchdowns (10). He gained 912 total yards on 75 touches.
As a sophomore in 2024, can Reed become Jordan Love’s favorite target and Matt LaFleur’s favorite gadget weapon?
His game is reminiscent of former Packers slot dynamo Randall Cobb. Ask Jaire Alexander. In Cobb’s breakout season (2014), he recorded over 90 catches, totaling over 1,300 yards and 12 points. Reed has the same energetic qualities when it comes to winning in the slot and turning imitation plays into substantial plays. Reed could even add more as a true vertical threat. The only thing that can stop him from breaking out spectacularly is if he shares the target load with all the other catchers in Green Bay. Given that Reed is well, he could add up to 1,000 total yards and double-digit touchdowns in 2024.
Other potential receiver candidates for Brooks were Seattle’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Buffalo’s Khalil Shakir.
