Packers: Depth at tackle a concern after Billy Turner injury

Depth at tackle is now a concern for the Packers.

It might be time for the Green Bay Packers to make a signing at tackle.

According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, Packers offensive lineman Billy Turner is expected to miss time with a knee injury. Demovsky adds that while it’s not a serious injury, Turner could miss the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings next week.

Lane Taylor can fill in at right guard. That’s fine, he was the likely starter there anywhere. And new signing Rick Wagner can start at right tackle.

OK, no problems, right?

Well, if all five offensive linemen stay healthy, that is. What if the Packers lose one of their starting tackles — either Wagner or David Bakhtiari — who fills in?

Alex Light might be the next man up but he struggled as the main backup last season, which led to the Packers signing Jared Veldheer late in the season. Maybe the temporary solution is to again give Veldheer a call. After all, he did hint recently that he’s ready to return.

But unless Green Bay makes a signing, the depth is a real concern. And let’s not forget that Wagner is only just returning from an injury himself.

Up against a strong Vikings pass rush and one that now features Pro Bowler Yannick Ngakoue, who was traded to Minnesota earlier this week, the Packers need to be solid at both tackle positions in the season opener.

As long as both Bakhtiari and Wagner are healthy, they should be fine. Bakhtiari is an All-Pro and Wagner is an experienced, proven tackle. He might’ve been the starter in the regular season anyway. But you need good depth at tackle in the NFL, and Green Bay currently doesn’t have that. The problem is made far worse with Turner injured.

It might be time to give Veldheer a call.