Marquess Wilson and the NFL: Green Bay Packers

Marquess’ first two seasons at Washington State were undeniable and he looked destined to be at least a high day 2 pick going into 2012. But his final season was one of ups and downs before walking away from his team with just 3 games remaining. The character questions are there and on top of that there is an inconsistency concern going into April’s NFL Draft.

In 2012 MQW only caught more than 5 passes in a game twice, against Oregon (12 for 182, 1 td) and Utah (9 for 100). Also, he only caught passes for more than 100 yards 3 times (adding a 110 yard, 2 td performance vs UNLV). In the early stages of the season, some of this was attributed to penalties calling back several big gains and at least 3 touchdowns if memory serves. But more often times it was a pure lack of concentration that kept Wilson from big numbers in games, as he dropped several passes that were destined for big yards.

Regardless, Marquess Wilson is a natural big play talent who could really excel in the NFL if put into the right situation with a coach, receiving mentor and quarterback who will teach him all about being a professional and work ethic at his position. We’re examining his chances, team by team on making the roster as is with no agenda towards who the team would take otherwise at the wide receiver position.

Dec 30, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings (85) celebrates his touchdown with wide receiver Jordy Nelson (87) during the second quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Green Bay Packers

Stacked Against the Pick:

The Green Bay Packers are a pass heavy team and currently have a stable full of wide receivers with Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, James Jones, and Greg Jennings. The Packers could look to add depth at the position in late rounds but need more immediate help at other key positions.

The Packers who generally draft very well and will take talent over need, will look for value late which could push depth at wide receiver off of or onto the to do list. The biggest concern is that Green Bay also has a history of staying away from troubled players which may hurt Marquess Wilson’s opportunity there.

The Perfect Storm:

As dire as it sounds above for Marquess in Green Bay there is opportunity. Greg Jennings is most likely going to be a free agent and James Jones has just one year left on his contract. This leaves two quality starters for the 2014 season, Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb. Drafting for the future should be a priority for the Packers.

Marquess Wilson would be a good fit in Green Bay, as in Detroit he would have the opportunity to adjust to the NFL while learning from seasoned veterans such as Nelson and James. Wilson would also provide another big target for Aaron Rodgers. At 6’3 and close to 200 pounds Wilson would instantly be the 2^nd biggest receiver on the roster, Nelson is 6’3, 217.

Green Bay has already interviewed one of Wilson’s contemporaries, Robert Woods out of USC, so we know they are looking to add another wide receiver this year. Some have argued Wilson is just as good if not slightly better than Woods and would be in the same discussion if not for Marquess’ poor decision making. If Wilson can impress scouts at his pro day, and in interviews, he could end up on the Packers radar.

Likelihood of Getting Drafted by Green Bay:

Green Bay needs another wide receiver if they don’t and Wilson could become a great value pick late in the draft for them.

C- (1^st through 4^th rounds) Wilson would have to impress someone in the organization to get picked up in the 4^th.

A- (5^th through 7^th round) If Green Bay hasn’t taken a receiver like Woods yet (and he seems to be the guy they want), MQW could be a late round gem for the Packers.