Packers: Five things to watch at training camp 2019
By Jesse Fry
2. How are the new guys being used on the O-line?
The Packers signed Billy Turner to be their starting guard this season, while drafting Elgton Jenkins with an eye for the future. Could the future could be now?
It’ll be interesting to see how the Packers use Turner and Jenkins during training camp. Will they be moved around and used at multiple positions, or stay put and develop what they hope will be the starting five all season?
Bryan Bulaga is the older statesman of the offensive line and in the last year of his contract. He will more than likely get some maintenance days to rest and ensure he can make it the whole season. When those days come, will it be a plug and play with Jason Spriggs, or will Turner slide down to right tackle with Jenkins covering guard? This is probably Spriggs’ last chance as he is a free agent after the season and will need to make an impression with the time he gets.
In addition to looking towards the future at right tackle, Bulaga has been known to miss time during the season due to injury. If Spriggs can’t step up, who will be the one called on?
How much time Jenkins gets with the starting unit could also be another telling sign.
Lane Taylor‘s play slipped a little bit due to injury last year, so could he be a cut candidate? If Jenkins gets off to a fast start and we start seeing him taking more reps with the first team, that could mean the end for Taylor.
With Justin McCray and Lucas Patrick still on the roster, the Packers are deep enough at guard to allow Taylor to go should they feel confident in Jenkins. Also, with the return of Cole Madison, the Packers have more than enough players to feel comfortable with the depth should all perform up to expectations.
Lastly, who will back up All-Pro left tackle David Bakhtiari? The hope and plan is always for a season without injury, but should that occur, who will be protecting the blindside of Rodgers?