Packers: Three rookies who could start in Week 1 vs. Bears

Jace Sternberger, TE

This would be the most surprising of the three players, as Jimmy Graham is currently number one on the depth chart at tight end. But if Jace Sternberger impresses this summer during training camp, it’s possible head coach Matt LaFleur will start with his rookie tight end in the season opener.

The Packers offense will be difficult to scout going into the season opener against the Bears. Chicago’s defense will have to prepare against a brand new offense led by a rookie head coach. It’s the same challenge the Packers ran into against the Bears last year, and they had no answer for Matt Nagy’s offense in the first half.

For LaFleur, starting with Sternberger could make life even more challenging for Chuck Pagano’s defense. If he plays well during training camp, he could quickly make an impact as a pass catcher in the Packers offense. He had 10 touchdown receptions last year for Texas A&M.

Sternberger starting doesn’t necessarily mean he’d have to start ahead of Graham, either, as LaFleur could decide to go with two-tight end sets often.

It might come as a surprise if the Green Bay Packers’ rookie tight end starts right away, but it’s a real possibility.