Marquez Valdes-Scantling has been making waves in the NFL since he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2018. The 6’4″, 206-pound wide receiver has quickly become a favorite of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and his speed and agility make him a force to be reckoned with on the field.
Valdes-Scantling was born in St. Petersburg, Florida in 1994, and attended Lakewood High School where he played football, basketball, and ran track. He went on to attend North Carolina State University where he played football for the Wolfpack from 2014-2017. During his time at NC State, Valdes-Scantling caught 76 passes for 1,158 yards and eight touchdowns.
In 2018, Valdes-Scantling was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the fifth round. He quickly made an impact on the team, appearing in all 16 games during his rookie season and catching 38 passes for 581 yards and two touchdowns. He also set a new franchise record for the longest pass reception by a rookie with a 60-yard reception against the New England Patriots.
Valdes-Scantling’s second season with the Packers was more challenging, as he battled injuries and inconsistency. He finished the season with 26 catches for 452 yards and two touchdowns, but was unable to replicate the success of his rookie year.
Despite the ups and downs of his first two seasons, Valdes-Scantling worked tirelessly during the offseason to improve his game. He spent time with his trainer and worked on improving his speed and agility, as well as his hands and route-running.
The hard work paid off, as Valdes-Scantling had a breakout season in 2020. He finished the year with career highs in catches (33), receiving yards (690), and touchdowns (six). He also set a new career high for the longest reception of his career with a 78-yard touchdown against the Houston Texans.
Valdes-Scantling’s performance in 2020 was crucial to the success of the Packers, who finished the regular season with a 13-3 record and advanced to the NFC Championship Game. The wide receiver’s speed and ability to stretch the field opened up opportunities for his teammates and helped to keep defenses on their toes.
Beyond his on-field talent, Valdes-Scantling has also become a leader in the locker room. He is known for his work ethic and positive attitude, and his teammates have praised him for his energy and enthusiasm.
Looking ahead, Valdes-Scantling is poised for another strong season in 2021. He will continue to work on improving his game and building his chemistry with Rodgers, and is confident that he can help lead the Packers to another successful season.
In his short time in the NFL, Marquez Valdes-Scantling has already established himself as one of the league’s most exciting young wide receivers. With his speed, agility, and leadership skills, he has become an important part of the Green Bay Packers’ success, and fans can expect to see big things from him in the years to come.