Optimism about the development of Green Bay Packers receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling continues to build as the start of the 2020 season approaches.
An afterthought to end his second season, Valdes-Scantling has consistently drawn praise – especially over the last two weeks – from coach Matt LaFleur and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who have both noted the young receiver’s growth in key areas.
“I think Marquez, especially, he improved in the areas we were looking for,” LaFleur said Friday.
LaFleur believes Valdes-Scantling has shown “strong, aggressive, confident hands” and an “ability to get off press coverage,” while also continuing to expand the ways he can “use his speed,” arguably his greatest asset.
“We really like his progress,” LaFleur said.
A vertical threat with ideal length and straight-line speed, Valdes-Scantling could have tremendous value for the Packers offense in 2020, especially if he becomes a more well-rounded threat in the passing game. Necessary improvements catching the ball, winning off the line of scrimmage and creating separation on intermediate routes have fueled the praise this summer.
Rodgers said Valdes-Scantling was the receiver he’s been “most impressed with” during camp.
“He’s now making the catches he’s expected to make, and he’s adding some extra plays in there where he’s doing some smart things and showing the growth,” Rodgers said, via Bill Huber of SI. “So, I’m really proud of MVS. It’s been nice to see Marquez – especially the last seven, 10 days – really turn it on.”
Valdes-Scantling caught 21 passes for 416 yards and two scores during the first seven games last season but managed just six catches for 44 and no touchdowns over the final 11 games, including the postseason. He injured his ankle during the Packers’ win over the Detroit Lions on Oct. 14.
