Wide Receiver
The absence of Randall Cobb this year may have helped Ted Thompson make a tough decision regarding James Jones. Jones, who unsuccessfully tested free agency
three years ago, will command a higher paycheck this time around after leading the league in TD catches in 2012. However, Jarrett Boykin stepped in nicely for Cobb, making Thompson less likely to overpay for Jones. Cobb will also demand a new contract after the season, so Thompson ultimately needs to decide which WR to pay.
With Jordy Nelson as the clear #1, Boykin could line up on the outside as well, thanks to his 6'2" frame, leaving the 5'10" Cobb in his natural slot position. Boykin's emergence will likely cause Jones to leave the Packers, allowing Thompson to use a mid-to-late round pick on another WR to provide depth.
Tight End
Jermichael Finley's desire to play next season
without taking a pay cut may be the straw that breaks Thompson's back. When healthy, Finley's potential is sky-high. However, combine his propensity for drops with the fact that he's coming back from spinal fusion surgery, and Finley's leverage may be at an all-time low.
In addition to Finley, Andrew Quarless is a free agent this year. Quarless filled in nicely for Finley, but lacked the big-play ability that made Finley a threat. The other TEs on the roster (Brandon Bostick, Ryan Taylor and Jake Stoneburner) are inexperienced and lackluster. Thompson needs to address this need so the offense can continue to deploy pass catchers (and play makers) at every position. I see an early round pick being used on a TE, especially if one makes a Lacy-esque fall.
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