The Green Bay Packers’ left tackle position remains uncertain as the team navigates an open competition between incumbent Rasheed Walker and 2024 first-round draft pick Jordan Morgan. This battle takes place amid significant changes on the offensive line, including contract considerations and injuries affecting key players like Elgton Jenkins. The Packers’ management continues to evaluate options during training camp to solidify the offensive line’s future.
Rasheed Walker’s Edge in the Battle for Starting Role
Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst described the LT competition as open but highlighted Rasheed Walker’s experience and performance as a major factor. Despite being a seventh-round pick, Walker has impressed by starting 32 games over the past two seasons and earning consistent PFF grades placing him just outside the top 40 tackles. His unexpected rise contrasts with the typical expectations for a late-round rookie, making him the current frontrunner heading into the 2024 season.
Jordan Morgan’s Versatility and Development Challenges
Jordan Morgan, a highly regarded left tackle from Arizona and the Packers’ first-round selection, has yet to secure a full-time starting role, partly due to injury and being used as a swing player between guard and tackle positions in his rookie year. Morgan’s role included 120 snaps at right guard and 65 on the left side last season, but he did not see the volume of playing time expected from a top draft pick. His ability to challenge Walker at LT or potentially pivot to guard remains a key storyline for Green Bay’s offensive line depth.
The Guard Position and Impact of Injuries on Line Adjustments
The team’s shuffle on the interior offensive line has been influenced by Elgton Jenkins’ back injury, which has caused Sean Rhyan to slide to center and opened opportunities for Morgan to gain reps at right guard. Rhyan, in a contract year, believes he has secured his spot as a starting guard, holding solid rankings among his peers. The Packers appear cautious in deploying Morgan, balancing his development against Rhyan’s established presence. Nevertheless, Morgan is expected to continue pursuing a starting role moving forward.
Elgton Jenkins’ Injury and Contract Status
Elgton Jenkins, who has played multiple positions along the Packers’ offensive line, is currently on the active/non-football injury list after sustaining a back injury off-site. While the team anticipates his return without significant delays, questions about Jenkins’ contract linger. Jenkins expressed frustration about his current deal since recent extensions for Zach Tom and Aaron Banks have made him no longer Green Bay’s highest-paid blocker. His four-year, $68 million contract, through 2026, carries no full guarantees due to his latest injury status.
Christian Watson’s Recovery and Potential Absence
The Packers are also managing Christian Watson’s ACL rehabilitation cautiously, as the wide receiver is unlikely to return to full practice during training camp. Watson’s rehab is reportedly progressing very well, but the team expects him to be sidelined until around midseason. As a result, he is a probable candidate for the reserve/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, which would mandate missing at least the first four games of the year. Watts’ absence emphasizes the team’s overall need to stabilize its offensive line and skill positions.
Implications of the Left Tackle Competition for Green Bay’s Offensive Line
The Packers’ left tackle competition, combined with the ongoing injury and contract situations surrounding Elgton Jenkins, plays a crucial role in defining the team’s offensive line structure for both the near and long term. Rasheed Walker’s performance could secure his role, while Jordan Morgan’s future might involve shifting between guard and tackle roles depending on his progress and team needs. The management’s handling of these players in contract years adds further complexity to roster planning.
Green Bay’s approach will impact their offensive protection schemes and could influence free agency decisions moving forward. With several key players on the line in critical contract seasons, the organization must balance development, cap space, and injury management to maintain a stable and effective offensive front. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as the training camp unfolds, revealing who ultimately earns the Packers’ left tackle spot for the upcoming NFL season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How good is Elgton Jenkins?
A. He is one of the few pro football players who can play all five positions on the offensive line. In the past year, Jenkins got 10 All-Pro votes for playing left guard. He was also selected for the Pro Bowl mainly as a left guard in both 2020 and 2022.
Q. How much does Elgton Jenkins make?
A. From my perspective, if Green Bay decides to compromise, Jenkins should request that most of his $18.5 million salary for 2026 be changed into a roster bonus. This bonus should activate at the start of the following offseason.