Packers Rookie Benched for Disciplinary Violation — Hasn’t Played a Single Snap After Matt LaFleur’s Tough Message on Standards

The Green Bay Packers’ seventh-round rookie wide receiver has yet to see the field this season — and head coach Matt LaFleur just made it clear why.

Despite impressing during offseason workouts with his speed and versatility, the young wideout has remained on the practice squad since Week 1, with LaFleur citing discipline and execution as the main reasons behind the decision.

“HE'S GOT THE TALENT, NO QUESTION. BUT IN GREEN BAY, EXECUTION IS EVERYTHING. HE MISSED READS, BLEW ASSIGNMENTS, AND DIDN'T MASTER THE DETAILS. AROUND HERE, YOU DON'T EARN SNAPS WITH POTENTIAL — YOU EARN THEM BY PLAYING THE PACKERS WAY.”

The rookie in question is Junior Bergen, a seventh-round pick (No. 252 overall) from Montana, who signed a four-year rookie contract shortly after the 2025 NFL Draft. Bergen flashed promise as a slot receiver and return specialist during training camp, drawing early comparisons to former Packers gadget players known for their versatility and intelligence.

However, insiders from the team’s practice sessions revealed that Bergen struggled to learn route progressions, execute assignments precisely, and adjust to the pace and complexity of LaFleur’s offense — a system renowned for demanding timing, precision, and mental sharpness.

The Packers waived Bergen on August 26, 2025, only to re-sign him to the practice squad the following day — a move LaFleur described as part of the development process rather than a punishment.

“He’s learning,” LaFleur said. “But at this level, talent isn’t enough. You have to prove every day that you understand your job and that your teammates can trust you to execute it.”

Bergen has since worked closely with receivers coach Jason Vrable, focusing on improving his route discipline and timing. Despite being benched from active play, team sources say the 23-year-old has shown steady progress and remains a long-term project for the Packers’ offense.

Still, LaFleur’s message was unmistakable: in Green Bay, consistency and preparation are non-negotiable. “This organization is built on accountability,” he said. “Every player here — whether it’s a Pro Bowler or a rookie — is expected to uphold that standard. Until you do, you sit.”

For Junior Bergen, the lesson is clear. The path back to the field won’t come from talent alone — it will come from mastering the details and earning the right to play the

Packers way.