John FitzPatrick Shows Why He Could Be an Asset for the Packers
John FitzPatrick wasn’t known as a receiving threat during his time at Georgia, nor with the Falcons, and not even last year with the Packers. However, there may be untapped potential in the 6-foot-7 tight end.
At Packers training camp this week, FitzPatrick scored a touchdown and was asked how many passes he caught at Georgia. Laughing, he admitted it wasn’t many — just 17 in four seasons — noting that Georgia had many other talented players.
A sixth-round pick by Atlanta in 2022, FitzPatrick was signed by Green Bay off the Falcons’ practice squad last season. Back then, he said blocking was the main reason he played at Georgia and why he was drafted.
While not a deep threat like Luke Musgrave or a big-time option like Tucker Kraft, FitzPatrick has shown he can contribute as a reliable outlet and red-zone target. “I’m confident in running routes and catching the ball,” he said. “I haven’t always had the opportunity to do so, but when I get the chance, I just try to make a play.”
His career numbers are minimal — no more than 10 catches in a college season and just two total receptions in 18 NFL games — but he remains confident. He practices the same routes as other tight ends and is ready when the ball comes his way.
This week, he capped off a red-zone drill with a sliding touchdown catch from Malik Willis, after a near-score by teammate Ben Sims. He’s also made other notable plays in camp, including a sliding grab from Willis and a bootleg touchdown from Jordan Love.
At Georgia, FitzPatrick battled foot injuries while helping the Bulldogs win the 2021 national championship. He was part of a stacked tight end group with Brock Bowers and Darnell Washington. His rookie year was spent on injured reserve, and he played sparingly for Atlanta in 2023 before joining the Packers in October 2024, catching one pass in nine games.
Re-signed in the offseason, FitzPatrick sees the Packers’ faith in him as motivation. His size and blocking skills make him a strong roster candidate, while his growing role as a receiver could secure more playing time.
“Day by day, I just try to work hard,” he said. “I feel confident in my blocking and catching. I can help on Sundays.”
