5 Packers who will be affected most by no preseason games

4. Curtis Bolton

Linebacker Curtis Bolton put himself on the radar during the preseason last year. Standout performances showed he had the potential to make an impact on defense. For all of the problems the Packers have had at inside linebacker, to see Bolton impress during the exhibition games was exciting to see.

After playing so well, Bolton put his name into the discussion to not only make the Packers’ 53-man roster but to also start in the season opener against the Chicago Bears. But just like that, his season came to an end. In a preseason game against the Oakland Raiders, Bolton tore his ACL and was placed on injured reserve.

Another year, another opportunity for Bolton at inside linebacker, a position that remains a concern for the Packers. If he’s fully healthy and can get back to last year’s form, he’ll have a great shot at making the roster. However, having zero preseason games to show what he can do won’t help.

As last year showed, that opportunity in preseason looked like it was about to make all the difference for Bolton before he got injured. With no exhibition games in August, he now has one less opportunity. That said, I’m still backing Bolton to make the roster.