NFL Rumors: Green Bay Packers rookie tight end might start

Green Bay Packers rookie tight end Richard Rodgers appears to be making quite the name for himself at organized team activities and minicamp, so much so that he might just be on track to start at tight end for the Pack come Week 1, according to ESPN Packers reporter Rob Demovsky.

"“His size (6-foot-4, 257 pounds) and athleticism stood out during the offseason practices. At least once a practice, he made an eye-catching play in the passing game, and coach Mike McCarthy said of Rodgers at the conclusion of minicamp this week that “if there was one thing that jumped off for a rookie in the offseason program, I would say he was very productive.” Now, he got more reps because returning starter Andrew Quarless did not practice at all this offseason, but Rodgers took advantage. He will have to show that he can be an effective blocker once the pads come on in training camp, but at this point he might be in the lead.”"

As Demovsky noted, Rodgers is seeing a significant number of reps in part due to Quarless’ absence. But, given the third-rounder’s propensity for making big plays at California, it shouldn’t stun anyone that he’s taking full advantage of the opportunities. He averaged 15.6 yards per catch in his final season as a Golden Bear.

Whether the new tight end can continue to impress and inch closer to the starting job should be one of the more interesting story lines for the Pacers heading into the 2014-15 NFL season.