Another day, another practice, another highlight from Green Bay Packers fullback Danny Vitale.
“The Muscle Man” produced a standout play during the Packers’ joint practice with the Houston Texans on Monday at Ray Nitschke Field.
During an 11-on-11 “move the ball” drill late in the practice, Vitale ran a wheel route from the backfield and then skied over Texans linebacker Zach Cunningham to haul in the deep throw from Aaron Rodgers down the far sideline.
The play would have been difficult for an experienced receiver, much less a 240-pound fullback.
“That looked pretty exciting to me. I can’t wait to watch it on tape,” coach Matt LaFleur said after practice.
The long reception was one of the best catches of Packers camp so far, but big plays have become commonplace for Vitale, one of the true surprises of the summer.
“I expect to make plays like that whenever I get my opportunities,” Vitale said after the practice.
Earlier in the practice, the Texans left Vitale wide open underneath, so Rodgers dumped him the football and he gained 10-12 easy yards.
It’s becoming increasingly more clear that Vitale has carved out a legitimate role in the Packers offense. He’s no longer in danger of not making the 53-man roster. Barring injury, he’ll be on the team and in a position to contribute as a lead blocker, runner, pass protector and receiver, specifically in normal down and distances but also on third down and in the two-minute drill.
“He’s been awesome. Smart guy,” LaFleur said on Sunday. “And he brings something to the table if we need him in third down, drop-back situations.”
