Intriguing Robert Tonyan giving Packers tough decision at tight end

[Da-news-now]

One of the tougher decisions the Packers will have to make when trimming their roster to 53 will be whether to keep a street free-agent tight end.

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[GBP4EVER]

I would keep him over Kendricks. Keeping Kendricks as a 3rd TE is nothing special.

 

[dannobanano]

Would they keep 4 TE’s and dump the FB?
Philbin’s offensive philosophy may play a role in the final cut down decisions here.

 

[GBP4EVER]

I think they keep the FB but FB I can see Kerridge getting the spot as he seems a better ST player and a guy MM has always liked. Rip just has never seemed to be more then a meh FB.

 

[dannobanano]

Whatever they do with FB, the TE group will be an interesting final cutdown decision.

Bubble players

TE Robert Tonyan
The converted receiver is starting to come on as a legitimate competitor for a roster spot at tight end. He made a twisting touchdown catch on a back-shoulder throw and later sprung wide open over the middle for a big gain against the Steelers last Thursday night. He’s also improving as a blocker, which he credits to the daily teachings of veteran Marcedes Lewis. Is he competing with Lance Kendricks for one roster spot, or would the Packers keep four tight ends? Athletic tight ends with ability in the passing game are worth developing.

edit:
It's also worth noting, that the contracts of both Kendricks and Lewis expire after this season. Keeping a young/ascending TE on the roster could make sense and would mitigate having to spend a fairly high pick on in 2019.

 

[GBP4EVER]

I like Lewis because he's a good blocking TE probably the best blocking TE on roster and with this OL that could be a saving grace for Rodgers.

 

[dannobanano]

I like Lewis because he's a good blocking TE probably the best blocking TE on roster and with this OL that could be a saving grace for Rodgers.

Totally agree! And if they feel he still has gas in the tank, I would not be opposed to bringing him back next season. But, I doubt Kendricks stays beyond this season (if he stays at all), and that's why it could be a smart move to keep someone like Tonyan. I have my doubts as to whether or not he would make it to the PS because he's been putting up enough tape in games to garner attention from other teams.

 

[TW]

They will probably try to stash Tonyan on the practice squad. If that don't work, they'll just move on.