Brian Gutekunst Proves Once Again Commitment to be in Every Conversation
Since taking the reins as GM of the Packers, Brian Gutekunst has been true to his word about turning over every rock to find what he believes it takes to build a championship caliber football team. It’s not surprising he traded the 53rd and 59th picks to move up to 34. It’s not surprising he targeted a wide receiver with the move. What is surprising is who the trade partner was, division rival Minnesota Vikings. The Packers recent history would dictate an aversion to trading picks within the division. According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the last time it happened was in 2008 when the Packers traded the 137th pick for 150 and 209. Those picks netted the Packers Breno Giacomini and Matt Flynn.
This time around, Gutekunst selected Christian Watson, WR from North Dakota State. Watson is listed as 6′ 5″, 208 lbs. and turned in a 4.36 second 40-yard dash time and a 38-1/2 vertical. In 52 games played with the Bison, Watson had 392 rushing yards on 49 attempts, with 2 TDs, 2139 receiving yards on 105 receptions and 14 TDs. He also registered 686 return yards on 27 kickoff attempts with 2 TDs.
The Packers’ newest receiver with wear number 82.