As first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Bill Huber, Doubs didn’t observe on Thursday or Friday within the build-up to Inexperienced Bay’s sport towards the Rams tomorrow. He didn’t journey with the workforce Satuday, pointing to an absence which has now been confirmed. At concern is Doubs’ position within the Packers’ passing assault this season.
The 24-year-old has, as anticipated, been a fixture on offense so far with a snap share of 81%. Doubs obtained a mixed complete of solely 5 targets between Weeks 2 and three, however within the season opener, he noticed seven. That determine checked in at eight through the Packers’ Week 4 loss, a contest through which Christian Watson departed because of an ankle sprain. In his absence, Dontayvion Wicks took on an elevated position and noticed 13 targets; Wicks made solely 5 catches, although, and he was charged with three drops.
General, Doubs ranks a detailed third on the Packers with 20 targets. Wicks and Jayden Reed sit tied for the lead in that division with 22, and the latter’s 336 receiving yards lead the workforce. Doubs is second in yardage, however his share of the offense has taken a step again in comparison with 2023, when he led the workforce in targets (96). The Nevada product was additionally a key contributor throughout his rookie yr, resulting in expectations he would stay a extremely productive member of the Packers’ younger pass-catching corps in 2024. Doubs has definitely not been an afterthought, however his response to his workload has resulted in workforce self-discipline.
“Sadly, we needed to make the tough choice to droop Romeo for this week’s sport,” a statement from Packers GM Brian Gutekunst reads. “His choices and actions through the week negatively impacted the workforce and required us to take this motion. Whereas we’re definitely upset, we’re assured that we will transfer ahead in a constructive method. Romeo is a precious member of our workforce and we look ahead to welcoming him again subsequent week.”
Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel stories the matter is anticipated to be resolved, including Doubs’ long-term future in Inexperienced Bay doesn’t appear to be doubtful. Certainly, CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones confirms groups calling about his availability have been advised a commerce isn’t into consideration. It’ll nonetheless be attention-grabbing to see how workforce and participant proceed within the wake of Saturday’s transfer. Doubs stays connected to his rookie contract by means of 2025, making him an vital determine on offense now and shifting ahead.
With out him within the lineup — and with Watson listed as uncertain after he didn’t observe in any respect through the week — Reed and Wicks will determine to deal with a large workload within the passing sport. Regardless of Jordan Love‘s missed time earlier within the yr, the Packers sit at 2-2 on the season and have posted robust numbers in a number of offensive classes. Persevering with to take action might be key towards the Rams, however that might be difficult given the shorthanded nature of the receiving corps.
