LaFleur Says Jayden Reed Is Overreacting After Packers Draft Picks
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Green Bay, WI – May 18, 2025 – Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has addressed the recent drama surrounding star wide receiver Jayden Reed, suggesting that the player is overreacting to the team’s decision to draft two young wide receivers, Matthew Golden and Savion Williams, in the 2025 NFL Draft. LaFleur emphasized that Reed remains a key part of the team’s long-term plans.
Jayden Reed’s Reaction to the 2025 NFL Draft
Following the Packers’ selection of Matthew Golden and Savion Williams in the 2025 NFL Draft to add depth to the roster, Jayden Reed and his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, met with general manager Brian Gutekunst to clarify Reed’s role on the team. The meeting came as a surprise to many, as Golden and Williams were expected to serve as depth pieces rather than threats to Reed’s position, who has been a primary target for quarterback Jordan Love since 2023.
Reed had an impressive 2024 season, recording 64 receptions, 912 yards, and 8 touchdowns, emerging as a cornerstone of the Packers’ offense, especially with Christian Watson sidelined by an ACL injury in Week 18 of 2024. However, the addition of two young receivers appears to have sparked concerns for Reed about his standing on the team.
Matt LaFleur’s Perspective
During an appearance on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast, Matt LaFleur expressed his belief that Reed’s reaction might be excessive. He stated: “I think he’s overreacting a bit. We’ve made it clear to him that he’s a critical part of our plans. Adding Golden and Williams was just about increasing depth, not replacing anyone.”
LaFleur also admitted he was caught off guard by the meeting between Gutekunst and Rosenhaus, as he was not informed beforehand: “The first time I heard about this, I was pretty surprised because he hadn’t said a word to me. I think we need to improve our internal communication to avoid misunderstandings like this.”
The State of the Packers’ Offense
The Packers’ receiving corps currently lacks a clear WR1 (top wide receiver), but Reed and Romeo Doubs have established themselves as the most reliable targets for Jordan Love. However, the unit struggled in 2024, ranking third in the NFL for drops and facing challenges in creating separation against man-to-man defenses, particularly without Watson.
The additions of Golden and Williams were intended to enhance depth and versatility in the passing game, but the move seems to have caused unnecessary worry for Reed. LaFleur reiterated that the team has no intention of diminishing Reed’s role, aiming instead to build a more balanced offense to support Love and the rest of the unit.
Importance of Communication and Outlook
LaFleur highlighted the lack of communication between himself and Reed as a key lesson for the team: “We need to make sure everyone understands their role and our plans. Jayden is a huge talent, and we want him focused on playing football, not worrying about things that aren’t necessary.”
He also praised Gutekunst for assembling a roster with players who fit the Packers’ culture, both in terms of talent and character: “Brian has done a great job bringing in the right kind of players. We just need to do a better job communicating so everyone feels secure.”
Packers fans are hopeful that this situation will be resolved quickly, allowing Reed to continue thriving in his leading role. With LaFleur and Jordan Love at the helm, alongside a bolstered receiving corps, the Packers are aiming for the 2025 season with goals of improving their offensive performance and competing in the NFC.
About the Green Bay Packers: The team is preparing for training camp and the 2025 season with aspirations of capturing the NFC championship.
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