Packers coach Mike McCarthy recently re-affirmed Randall Cobb as the Packers return man after leaving the job open heading into the offseason. With the loss of Greg Jennings and Donald Driver, two of Green Bay's most successful receivers, Cobb is positioned to move up in the depth chart and become a main weapon this season.
While that will still certainly be the case, he will still be looked upon for his versatility in the return game as well. There are usually two scenarios that play out with receivers who double as the return man for special teams; either the player is used early in his career at the return slot until he acclimates himself to the NFL's WR position full time, or a player who specializes in returns is so good at them (see Devin Hester) that the team tries to fit that kind of speed into the offense.
The Packers are going to try and have the best of both worlds, even with the added risk of injury that comes with Cobb taking the field more than normal.
The Packers, for what its worth, gave the opportunity to eight other receivers to shine at the return game this offseason, but none were able to show the kind of talent Cobb has for the position.
Barring any type of injury like he sustained late in last season against the Titans, I would expect to see Cobb as the main return option on all kickoffs and punts for the Packers even as he tries to become a greater offensive threat as well. This is also a great time to remind you of Cobb's greatest NFL return to date. Enjoy:
http://youtu.be/SC0nND-vzPk
Randall Cobb Still Packers' Returner [ESPN]
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