With the conclusion of the preseason, the Green Bay Packers have closed the chapter on a period of evaluation and experimentation. The stage is now set for the transition to the regular season. As the dust settles, the team’s identity begins to take shape. Who’s going to make the 53-man roster? Let’s take a look.
Quarterback (2)
Starter(s): Jordan Love
Backup(s): Sean Clifford
Practice squad: Alex McGough
This is unequivocally Jordan Love‘s team. Additionally, the preseason saw Sean Clifford exhibit a commendable performance, solidifying his well-deserved spot as QB2. Clifford’s adept decision-making, adaptability under pressure, and consistent execution have earned him his place as Love’s backup.
Running Back (3)
Starter(s): Aaron Jones, AJ Dillon
Backup(s): Patrick Taylor
Practice squad: Emanuel Wilson, Lew Nichols III
Green Bay’s running back situation presents an intriguing uncertainty this year, especially considering thr roster dynamics and practice-squad elevation rules. Last season, the team opted to retain two running backs, a strategy that could be revisited due to the flexibility updated practice squad regulations have brought.
However, this decision hinges on the team’s evaluation of depth and versatility within the running back room. Notably, Patrick Taylor caught the eye of the coaching staff with his multifaceted skillset. Taylor’s proficiency in blocking and his contributions on special teams have not gone unnoticed. These attributes could potentially tip the scales in favor of a larger running back contingent, as his presence enhances the team’s options in both offensive protection schemes and special teams coverage.
Full Back (1)
Starter(s): Josiah Deguara
Practice squad: None
I have the Packers transitioning Josiah Deguara to a hybrid fullback role. He seamlessly blends traditional fullback duties with modern versatility, enabling him to block effectively, contribute as a short-yardage runner, and flex out as a receiver or H-back.
Wide Receiver (6)
Starter(s): Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed
Backup(s): Malik Heath, Samori Toure, Dontayvion Wicks
Practice squad: Grant DuBose, Bo Melton,
Watson, Doubs, Reed, and Toure have unequivocally secured their spots on the roster. Notably, Heath showcased unwavering skill and consistency throughout both camp and preseason, cementing his place as the fifth receiver. Still, an intriguing question lingers. Will the Packers elect to expand their wide receiver corps to seven, thereby opening the door for Dubose to sieze that coveted final spot?
Tight End (3)
Starter(s): Luke Musgrave, Tucker Kraft
Backup(s): Austin Allen
Practice squad: None
Luke Musgrave will be the Packers’ TE1. Look for Kraft and Allen to play significant roles in the running game, enhancing its effectiveness. The collaborative growth and development of these players promises an exciting progression.
Offensive Line (9)
Starter(s): David Bakhtiari, Elgton Jenkins, Josh Myers, Jon Runyan Jr., Zach Tom
Backup(s): Yosh Nijman, Sean Ryan, Rasheed Walker, Caleb Jones
Practice squad: James Empey, Cole Schneider, Kadeem Telfort, Royce Newman
You’ve got it right: a sole backup for the interior offensive line. The Packers boast impressive depth at tackle, yet the same robustness isn’t mirrored on the interior. Tom might transition from tackle to center, and Jenkins could shift from guard to center if needed. Green Bay’s draft strategy, favoring versatile offensive linemen, serves them well in this scenario.
Interior Defensive Line (5)
Starter(s): Kenny Clark, Devonte Wyatt, TJ Slaton
Backup(s): Karl Brooks, Colby Wooden
Practice squad: Jonathan Ford
Kenny Clark undisputably stands as the premier defensive lineman for the Packers. Anticipations are high for Devonte Wyatt to make significant strides in his second year. Karl Brooks and Colby Wooden showcased remarkable performances during camp and preseason, signaling their potential impact. This might mark the first instance in quite a while where the Packers boast robust depth at the interior defensive line, a promising development for the team’s defensive front.
Edge Rusher (6)
Starter(s): Rashan Gary, Preston Smith
Backup(s): Lukas Van Ness, Kingsley Enagbare, Brenton Cox Jr, Justin Hollins
Practice squad: Keshawn Banks
Roster exemption: Kenneth Odumegwu (International Player Pathway Program)
Green Bay boasts a formidable edge rusher unit, with Rashan Gary positioned for a Week 1 start. Kingsley Enagbare‘s standout performance against Bill Belichick’s offense during the preseason caught fans’ attention. While character concerns hover, Brenton Cox’s ceiling remains enticingly high. A strategic move by Joe Barry might involve Lukas Van Ness navigating the front seven, effectively bridging the edge and interior D-line positions for added flexibility and impact.
Linebacker (4)
Starter(s): De’Vondre Campbell, Quay Walker
Backup(s): Eric Wilson, Isaiah McDuffie
Practice squad: Tariq Carpenter
There isn’t much to talk about here. Campbell and Walker are the starters. Wilson and McDuffie provide great value on special teams.
Cornerback (5)
Starter(s): Jaire Alexander, Rasul Douglas
Backup(s): Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, Corey Ballentine
Practice squad: Shemar Jean-Charles, Innis Gaines
PUP: Eric Stokes
Jaire Alexander, Rasul Douglas, and Eric Stokes undoubtedly qualify as top-tier NFL starters. Nixon and Valentine provide valuable depth at the position, with Nixon anticipated to play a significant role on special teams.
Safety (6)
Starter(s): Darnell Savage, Rudy Ford
Backup(s): Jonathan Owens, Tarvarius Moore, Anthony Johnson Jr, Dallin Leavitt
Practice squad: Benny Sapp III
The safety unit stands out as a vulnerability within Green Bay’s roster. The starting duo of Savage and Ford lacks the assurance typically expected from starters, and the depth behind them doesn’t offer much reassurance.
Specialists (3)
Starter(s): Pat O’Donnell (P), Anders Carlson (K), Matthew Orzech (LS)
Backup(s): None
Practice squad: Daniel Whelan
The Packers seem to be willing to ride with their rookie kicker, despite his ups and downs. When it comes to punter, Green Bay should go young. However, O’Donnell provides great experience within a relatively young team.
