On Sunday, Green Bay Packers fans witnessed the team’s third-round selection in 2022, Sean Rhyan, get his first career snaps against the Los Angeles Rams. Rhyan exhibited crucial blocking in the run game. His agility shone through as he adeptly engaged in blocks at the second level of the defense. He neutralized none other than Aaron Donald, paving the way for Aaron Jones’ touchdown run.
Rhyan’s debut undoubtedly showcased promising signs and glimpses of his potential. But it’s important to remember that becoming a reliable starter in the NFL is challenging and arduous. Rhyan must continue refining his skills, gaining experience, and demonstrating his abilities over time before anyone considers him reliable for the job. Rhyan laid a foundation for himself, but there’s still much work to be done for this young talent to solidify his place on Green Bay’s offensive line.
LaFleur and his coaching staff must provide him with consistent playing time. They won’t know how game-ready he is until they thoroughly test him. Having him regularly on the field is the only way to fully unlock his capabilities and gauge his readiness as a reliable starter. Given the investment the Packers made in his development, it might be time for them to seriously consider starting him to accelerate his growth and ensure that he reaches his full potential as an integral part of the team’s offensive line.
It’s pivotal that the Packers’ coaching staff determine Rhyan’s ideal starting position. Rhyan has shown proficiency as an inside lineman, and it may be in Green Bay’s best interest to capitalize on his strengths in this role. The analytics may suggest that Josh Myers is playing the best football of his career. However, a closer on-field examination can reveal a different story. Myers has struggled with consistency, often ending up on the ground when plays conclude and missing critical inside blocks.
However, the Packers shouldn’t simply replace Myers with Rhyan. Green Bay should shift Elgton Jenkins to center and allow Rhyan to step into his natural role at left guard. Jenkins has already proven his versatility, excelling at various positions along the offensive line. By moving him to center, the Packers can take advantage of his adaptability and football intelligence to stabilize the line of scrimmage.
Repositioning the offensive line like this not only puts Rhyan in his element at left guard but also addresses some of the inconsistencies plaguing the interior offensive line. Rhyan’s proficiency at left guard can help fortify Green Bay’s run game. Meanwhile, Jenkins can provide a steady hand at the center position, which is crucial for protecting a young quarterback and making the necessary line calls.
Promoting a second-year player, especially one who only recently received his first career snaps, to the starting lineup can carry some inherent risks. However, Rhyan hasn’t just been sitting on the sidelines during that time. He has been getting valuable reps in practice, studying film, and learning the intricate details of Green Bay’s offensive system. That year of mental and physical conditioning is invaluable to his growth as a professional football player.
Some aspects of the game can only be fully grasped through actual playing time on the field. These include the intricacies of hand and footwork when facing off against opposing defensive linemen, adjusting to different cadences, and dealing with the unpredictability of bull rushes. The in-game experience offers a unique learning opportunity that he can’t fully replicate in practice or film study. Facing live competition provides insights into the subtle nuances of an opponent’s technique, allowing Rhyan to adjust his approach accordingly.
Undoubtedly, 2023 is a year of evaluation and experimentation for the Packers, especially when determining Rhyan’s role within the team. If he encounters difficulties in his presumed left guard position, exploring different possibilities to harness his talents effectively may be prudent.
One option could be trying Rhyan at right guard or even at center if necessary. However, it’s essential to establish certain boundaries regarding experimentation. While versatility is a valuable asset, it’s equally important to prevent overextending a young player too quickly.
Rhyan showcased glimpses of his potential in his debut against the Los Angeles Rams, but he still has a significant road ahead. However, if he can build upon the positive strides he made in that game, Rhyan may earn the opportunity to insert himself into the Packers’ starting lineup. In doing so, he’d break the “third-round pick curse” that has occasionally overshadowed Green Bay’s draft history.
