The Packers’ rookies had a quick effect.It’s only rookie minicamp, and the Green Bay Packers’ newcomers have a long way to go before making plays in real games, but hearing updates from the practice field is intriguing.
Green Bay hosted its rookie class for the first day of minicamp on Friday. The goal is to introduce the players to their new teammates and coaches, acquire some early on-field experience, and learn about the expectations for the future. It’s also an opportunity to make a few plays on the practice field, which is especially critical for rookie tryouts hoping to make the training camp squad.
There were many positive takeaways from the first day of rookie minicamp. Several draft picks reported Jordan Love contacted them after the Packers selected them, demonstrating his outstanding leadership. On the practice field, a few players stood out for making some remarkable plays.
Packers rookies Edgerrin Cooper and Kalen King make a fast start to minicamp
After the first day of rookie minicamp, three names stand out: Edgerrin Cooper, Kalen King, and Dimitri Stanley. Second-round pick. Cooper comes to Green Bay with big hopes. He will play an important role in Jeff Hafley’s defense and was considered the top linebacker in the draft class. And we already see why.
Cooper made two impressive plays on the practice field. According to Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Cooper made a one-handed interception. He also returned a fumble recovery for a touchdown.
According to Wes Hodkiewicz of the Packers’ official website, King caused the fumble. It’s early, but that’s the type of play King needs to make to stand a chance of making the roster and contributing as a rookie. Hodkiewicz also mentioned that King was getting action as the nickel corner, which is interesting. A move inside may be just what King needs to utilize his abilities in Hafley’s defense.
I think there is zero reason Kalen can’t be a 10-year nickel in this league and a very good one,” Packer Report’s Ross Uglem wrote last week.
The other name to watch is wide receiver Dimitri Stanley, who is among the rookie tryout players at camp. He may have earned himself a spot on the 90-man roster ahead of OTAs.
“Dimitri Stanley with a sick one handed catch in team. We have our tryout rookie minicamp hidden gem of the year,” writes Andy Herman hosts the Pack-a-Day podcast.
Head coach Matt LaFleur referenced the catch when asked about discussions of which tryout players they may sign. The Packers often have a young receiver emerge during the offseason, and Stanley has made a promising start.
