The Green Bay Packers made a significant move by signing Aaron Banks to a four-year, $77 million contract, aiming to strengthen their offensive line and improve protection for quarterback Jordan Love. Banks expressed confidence in the team’s trajectory, noting their consistent playoff appearances and the growth of a young roster. This investment was intended to address ongoing concerns about the team’s offensive line stability as they pursue postseason success.
Concerns Rise Early in Training Camp
Doubts about Banks’ impact on the Packers’ protection quickly emerged during the initial days of training camp. In the 2023 season, Jordan Love faced defensive pressure on 35.6% of his dropbacks, ranking him eighth among starting quarterbacks. While Love occasionally turned pressure into positive plays, the frequent hits took a toll on his performance and durability. Banks was expected to provide dependable interior line support but failed to meet expectations when he abruptly left practice halfway through a nearly two-hour session on July 25. Instead of participating fully, Banks remained on the field passively, causing teammates and coaches to question his commitment.
Rookie Travis Glover Steps Into the Breach
With Banks sidelined, rookie guard Travis Glover, a sixth-round draft pick from Georgia State, was forced to fill the critical role protecting Jordan Love. Despite Glover’s experience of 59 college starts and strong work ethic, his limited professional experience raises concerns about his readiness for such a high-pressure assignment. The Packers had hoped Banks, at 27 years old and entering his prime, would provide a reliable presence at left guard, especially considering his prior success, including a 68.6 pass-blocking grade and allowing only four sacks over two NFL seasons with the San Francisco 49ers.
Changes in Offensive Line Strategy Create Additional Challenges
Coach Matt LaFleur’s plan to reshape the Packers’ offense after Aaron Rodgers’ departure relied heavily on a tough, physical running game supported by a solid offensive line. This strategic shift involved moving elite pass blocker Elgton Jenkins from left guard to center to accommodate Banks’ addition. Last season, Jenkins earned an 83.1 pass-blocking grade and allowed just one sack, ranking among the NFL’s best. However, Banks’ previous ranking of 77th among guards by Pro Football Focus (PFF) and his susceptibility to injury cast doubt on the wisdom of this position shuffle.
Implications for Jordan Love’s Protection and Team Prospects
The unfolding situation places Jordan Love’s protection in jeopardy as Banks’ reliability becomes a major question mark. Measuring 6-foot-5 and 325 pounds, Banks was expected to anchor the offensive line and provide Love with much-needed security. His strong 68.9 run-blocking grade in 2024 contributed to the 49ers’ effective rushing attack last season, averaging over 141 yards per game. However, Banks now faces the challenge of performing without the support of an elite line, as the Packers’ offense depends heavily on his ability to excel in this role.
The team’s offensive strategy, envisioned to leverage a powerful ground game and solid pass protection, hinges on Banks delivering at both guard and run-blocking. Any inconsistency or absence from Banks could worsen the pressure on Love, heightening the risk of stalled drives and injury. LaFleur’s gamble in acquiring Banks places significant pressure on the player and the Packers as a whole. If Banks does not meet expectations, it may undermine both the young quarterback’s development and the team’s ambitions for a successful playoff run.
“They’ve been in the playoffs every year, and it’s a young team, and guys are only getting better,” —Aaron Banks, Offensive Guard