The Green Bay Packers will continue the seemingly endless search for tight end production in 2015.
Jermichael Finley provided sometimes maddening potential and earned three seasons above the 650-yard plateau -- with eight touchdowns in 2011 -- during his six seasons before neck injures derailed his career in 2013.
The Packers haven't been able to replace his production or potential at the position. They currently sit with a depth chart of Andrew Quarless, Richard Rodgers, Justin Perillo and rookies Kennard Backman and Mitchell Henry.
In a Q&A with ESPN Wisconsin's Jason Wilde, Aaron Rodgers singled out Quarless as a player -- along with receiver Davante Adams -- who has "jumped out" at him during offseason workouts.
"Andrew Quarless has had a great offseason," the quarterback said. "I think he's really, something clicked in for him at the end of last year and he's been taking the jump."
Quarless led the Packers tight ends in receiving last year. That's not saying much considering his stats: 29 catches for 323 yards and three touchdown. Still, those were all career-highs.
The Packers have been waiting for the 26-year-old, who is entering his sixth season, to show promise and consistency and that he can be more than a bit-player. Perhaps Aaron Rodgers believes the tight end has finally made that leap.Â
Quarless will compete with Richard Rodgers for snaps during training camp. In a system that doesn't rely on production from the tight end spot, a rotation will be in order unless one player shines.
Given Richard Rodgers' higher upside and increased production down the stretch last season, we'd have picked him to make a bigger leap in his second season. But who are we to argue with the best quarterback on the planet?
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