Green Bay Packers

Packers' Cobb: Jeff Janis 'really close' to becoming key contributor

Published Oct. 21, 2015 12:33 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Green Bay Packers are looking for another player to make an impact at the wide receiver position. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has made do with his current pass-catchers, but injuries continue to plague his arsenal of trusty receivers.

Randall Cobb, who has been one of Rodgers' more reliable targets, believes second-year pro Jeff Janis is about to emerge as a key contributor for Green Bay's offense. At least that's what he told Brett Christopherson in a Q&A for Press-Gazette Media.

I think he’s really close. He has to continue to do what he has been doing in practice and in games. And when he gets those opportunities, he has been able to make the plays for Aaron (Rodgers) like he did this past week. He’s a good player. He’s got the ability. He has the opportunity to be something special. I think that as long as he continues to believe in himself, he can do it. It’s just going to take time building that trust with Aaron. But we definitely need that from him, especially with the injuries we’ve had. We need Jeff to be able to step up and make some plays.

Janis, a seventh-round pick in last year's draft, led the Packers with 79 yards on just two catches in Week 6. Rodgers only targeted him four times against the San Diego Chargers, but that number could soar if he keeps making impressive plays down the field.

With Jordy Nelson on injured reserve and Davante Adams and Ty Montgomery both nursing injured ankles, the Packers need a new pass-catcher to step up. Janis could be the receiver who responds to the call.