Undrafted Rookie Receiver’s Heads-Up Play Leads to Touchdown in Packers-Patriots Practice
The Green Bay Packers and the New England Patriots went head-to-head for the second consecutive day during a windy and occasionally rainy practice at Ray Nitschke Field. The full-pads workout provided some exciting moments, but one play stood out among them all.
Undrafted rookie receiver Cody Chrest made a heads-up play that sealed the practice session on a high note. With just four seconds remaining on the clock, Chrest caught a 21-yard touchdown pass after several New England defensive backs converged on a pass from Sean Clifford into the end zone.
As the last Patriot defender attempted to intercept the ball, Chrest positioned himself perfectly and ended up with the rebound, capping off an impressive 11-play scoring drive. The Packers’ sideline erupted in celebration, recognizing Chrest’s keen awareness and quick thinking.
Speaking about the play, Chrest explained how he anticipated the collision between the defensive backs when they went up for the ball. He saw an opportunity for a rebound and wasted no time in getting to the right spot. He grabbed the ball and completed the touchdown, creating a memorable moment for himself and his teammates.
This touchdown marks the beginning of a significant week for Chrest, who has strong ties to the state of Wisconsin. Although he grew up in Houston, his father, Craig, hails from Black River Falls and actually signed with the Packers in 1981 as an undrafted free agent. Craig had a successful career as a receiver at UW-La Crosse, making the Packers an important part of their family history.
It was during a visit to his family’s cabin in Port Wing, Wisconsin, to celebrate his grandparents’ 60th wedding anniversary that Chrest received the call informing him of the Packers’ plan to sign him right before training camp. As a lifelong fan who was even given Packers stock as a gift by his parents, playing for the team had always been a dream for Chrest.
Although he couldn’t attend a game at Lambeau Field when he was younger due to his football commitments, Chrest will now have the opportunity to step onto that hallowed ground. With a full contingent of family members in attendance, he looks forward to the experience and plans to make the most of this opportunity.
Chrest’s journey to this point hasn’t been easy. He had a seven-year college career that began with a series of setbacks, including a knee injury that kept him on the sidelines for most of his first three seasons at Harvard. He later transferred to Sam Houston State, where he played his final three seasons and received an extra year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
After going undrafted in the spring, Chrest had brief stints with the Indianapolis Colts and the Pittsburgh Steelers before finally getting the call from the Packers. He admits there were moments of doubt along the way, but the support of his family and girlfriend kept him motivated. Chrest never stopped believing in his dream of playing in the NFL, and now he’s on the verge of living that dream.
On Saturday night, Chrest will take to the field against the Patriots, fulfilling a childhood dream of playing in a game at Lambeau Field. His determination and perseverance serve as an inspiration to others who may face obstacles in their own pursuits.
Chrest’s remarkable journey and his heads-up play in practice have undoubtedly earned him recognition within the Packers organization. As he prepares to showcase his skills against the Patriots, he continues to inspire with his unwavering belief in himself and his pursuit of a dream that is about to become a reality. Packers fans and football enthusiasts will no doubt be rooting for Cody Chrest as he steps onto the field at Lambeau Field, ready to make his mark.
