Packers: Predictions for top training camp battles in 2019

Starting guards

Participants: Lane Taylor, Billy Turner, Elgton Jenkins, Cole Madison, Lucas Patrick, Jason Spriggs, Anthony Coyle, Adam Pankey, Larry Williams

Unless there’s an injury, three positions along the offensive line are set: David Bakhtiari at left tackle, Bryan Bulaga at right tackle and Corey Linsley at center. That leaves two remaining positions, at left and right guard. Guard was the Packers’ number one issue on the offensive line in 2018, but there’s plenty of competition for the two starting jobs this summer.

Left guard Lane Taylor started 14 games for the Packers last season. He’s been the starter since Josh Sitton was released three years ago and should be considered the frontrunner to keep his starting role this year.

The most interesting position will be at right guard. Lucas Patrick and Jason Spriggs both have starting experience so can’t be ruled out, but my prediction is it’ll come down to the two new offseason additions: Billy Turner and Elgton Jenkins.

Turner made 11 starts for the Denver Broncos last season. As Pro Football Focus noted, the majority of his career snaps have been at right guard (812 at RG with 493 at LG being the closest at any other position). And after the Packers gave him a four-year deal worth $28 million in March, there’s a good chance he’ll be a starter at guard.

What could change things is an injury at tackle. The Packers could then move Turner to tackle with Jenkins starting at guard. But if the offensive line is fully healthy, Taylor and Turner are my picks to start at the two guard spots.

Prediction: Taylor and Turner win the jobs