Packers: 3 rookies who could start in the 2018 season

Oren Burks

In my opinion, the rookie who has the clearest path to a starting position is middle linebacker Oren Burks.

The Green Bay Packers have lacked speed at the inside linebacker position since moving Clay Matthews back outside full time. And Burks can make up for that loss. Burks’ testing numbers indicate (4.59 40-yard dash) he has the speed the defense has been missing in the middle of the field. He has the intangibles to become the sideline-to-sideline backer the Packers need.

Like Alexander, Burks will be expected to play a lot in nickel and dime packages. But, Burks also could open up as the other middle linebacker or as an outside linebacker depending on which base defense Mike Pettine prefers. If Burks can demonstrate the cover ability that has been missing in the middle of the field, it will be hard to keep him on the bench.

Burks’ flexibility will also be a huge asset. At Vanderbilt he played both inside and outside linebacker, as well as safety. It seems that players with position versatility is what the Packers are looking for. And Burks fits that profile.

I expect to see Burks line up at linebacker next to Blake Martinez come September.