Packers Cut Ties with Bust WR in Favor of Rookie Draft Pick
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May 1, 2025 – GREEN BAY, Wis. – The Green Bay Packers have officially parted ways with wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks, a 2023 fifth-round pick, to clear roster space for incoming rookie talent, sources told ESPN on Sunday. The move reflects the team’s renewed focus on youth following Wicks’ underwhelming tenure in Titletown.
Wicks, 24, showed flashes in 2024 with 400 receiving yards and four touchdowns, but his campaign was marred by a 27% drop rate — a stat that ultimately cemented his label as a “bust.” His inconsistency catching the ball kept him from carving out a meaningful role within an increasingly crowded receiving corps (NFL.com).
The Packers, coming off a bitter 11-6 wild-card exit, used the 2025 NFL Draft to revamp the position. They selected Matthew Golden in Round 1 and Savion Williams in Round 3, both of whom bring fresh energy and athleticism to Green Bay’s offense.
“We’re investing in potential,” said GM Brian Gutekunst, signaling that Wicks had become expendable (Packers Wire).
Golden, a standout from Texas, racked up 987 yards and nine touchdowns in 2024 and turned heads with a 4.29-second 40-yard dash. Williams, a versatile playmaker from TCU, enters the league with 1,576 career receiving yards. Their speed and upside have quickly eclipsed Wicks’ modest production (Pro Football Reference).
Financially, Wicks’ release saves the team $1 million in cap space, contributing to Green Bay’s $47 million offseason budget (Spotrac). Head coach Matt LaFleur simply said, “It’s a fresh start.” Wicks’ 14.7% drop rate in high-pressure situations reportedly sealed the decision.
Fan reactions flooded X. “Wicks gone? Good riddance!” one post read. With Jayden Reed tallying 857 yards last year, Romeo Doubs’ dependability, and the additions of Golden and Williams, the loss of Wicks stings little. The urgency is heightened by Christian Watson’s ongoing ACL rehab (ESPN).
Green Bay’s receiving corps, which ranked 11th in passer rating last season, clearly needed a shakeup. Wicks’ 33 receptions couldn’t stack up against Golden’s big-play potential or Williams’ dual-threat skillset. Veterans like Mecole Hardman and Bo Melton only intensify the competition (The Athletic).
With OTAs just around the corner, the Packers’ decision to release Wicks signals strong confidence in their rookie class. Whether Golden and Williams can supercharge Jordan Love’s 3,947-yard arm remains to be seen — but for Green Bay, 2025 marks the beginning of a bold new era.
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