Packers: Five players to watch in preseason vs. Ravens

Week 1 of the preseason is in the books and a few players impressed. Who’s set to make the next big impression in Baltimore?

After the long break, Packer football was finally back on Thursday night. While Aaron Rodgers and most of the starters sat this one out, the backups and rookies were able to put together a 28-26 win versus the Texans.

From the early going, it was clear this was the first game in over 200 days. Missed tackles and penalties filled the game with some more sloppy play mixed in between the whistles.

There was some noteworthy play from guys like Jake Kumerow and Ka’Dar Hollman, who have been having strong camps, as well as an uneven but impressive game from Ty Summers.

Kumerow made a couple tough catches and continues to be a reliable receiver for the Pack, while Hollman picked off a pass on the Texans’ first drive to continue his strong summer. Summers looked good and fast. He had a few missed tackles and looked like a rookie at times but, overall, Summers put together a good game. He looked fast and decisive and with Oren Burks hurt again, there may be a spot open.

This coming week, we should get our first look at what the first-team offense and defense might look like. After sitting for the first week, Rodgers should make his 2019 debut. With Rodgers playing, it’s a safe assumption the entire first-string O-line will be there to protect him too.

On the defensive side, the Smith tandem as well as the starting D-line should make their debut. The secondary might still be short-handed as Kevin King is still injured and unlikely to play.

Either way, the starters on both sides of the ball aren’t expected to play much more than a series or two. Which means there will be plenty of opportunity for young guys to step up and make an impression.

Here are five guys to keep an eye on Thursday night.

Dexter Williams

Dexter Williams was easily the best looking back Thursday against the Texans. He was quick, made his cut and ran downhill.

Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams are a little banged up at the moment.

Jones made his return to practice Saturday, but considering his injury history, the Pack will want to bring him along slowly.

That leaves D. Williams with a huge opportunity to get live game action with the first-string offense. Tra Carson was the starter Thursday night, but you’d have to think after his performance, Williams earned the chance should Jones be held out.

That means more work with Rodgers and more importantly against a number one defense.

If Williams can have the same type of night with a few of his snaps coming against the Ravens number one unit, his roster spot will become a little bit more secure.