Green Bay Packers 2019 training camp preview: Tight end

Tight end is one of the top positions to watch for the Green Bay Packers at training camp this year.

A position the Green Bay Packers have continued to focus on in recent offseasons is tight end. Have they finally got the talent and depth they’ve been looking for?

After drafting Jace Sternberger in the third round of April’s draft, they’ll be hoping so.

But with six tight ends currently on the 90-man roster, this will be a position to watch closely at training camp.

Bounce back for Jimmy Graham?

Even after signing a three-year deal last offseason, a disappointing debut campaign in Green Bay led many to wonder whether the Packers would bring back Jimmy Graham for 2019.

The answer was yes, but will he get back to his best this year? Aaron Rodgers believes so. And Graham will have every opportunity to make more of an impact as the starting tight end in Matt LaFleur’s offense.

Only two years ago, Graham was the league-leader in the red zone, catching an NFL-best 10 touchdowns within the 20-yard line. He seemed to be a million miles away from that in 2018, but can he bounce back in his second season with the Packers?

The Rodgers-to-Graham connection will be one to watch at training camp.

How many snaps will Jace Sternberger get right away?

The Packers selected Jace Sternberger in the third round for a reason, but will he be expected to contribute right away or be eased into action?

Graham should still see the majority of snaps, which could limit Sternberger’s opportunities in year one. But a strong performance at training camp and the preseason could change that.

Who will make the roster?

After Graham and Sternberger, four tight ends will be competing for a spot on the roster: Marcedes Lewis, Robert Tonyan, Evan Baylis and Pharoah McKever. Lewis and Tonyan were re-signed in the offseason, and the Packers claimed McKever off waivers.

Lewis’ experience and blocking ability gives him a great opportunity to earn snaps. Tonyan has potential and made sporadic appearances on offense last season, including a 54-yard touchdown against the Seahawks.

Can Baylis or McKever force their way onto the initial 53-man roster? The Packers will want to have good depth at the position in their new offense, which means everyone should have an opportunity at training camp.