Packers land tackle in recent NFL.com 2021 mock draft

Even after an excellent season by the Green Bay Packers‘ offensive line, adding a tackle this offseason should be on the to-do list.

For starters, All-Pro left tackle David Bakhtiari could miss the start of the season after tearing his ACL just before the playoffs. Even thinking longer term, it’s always a good idea to add young talent to the offensive line regularly.

With Bakhtiari out of the NFC title game, the Packers struggled against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ dominant pass rush. What this shows is that while Green Bay’s offensive line is as talented as any, there’s still room for improvement at tackle, especially when injuries hit.

Backup Rick Wagner had a solid first season in Green Bay but struggled against Tampa Bay.

So it will come as no surprise if offensive tackle is near the top of the Packers’ list of priorities in the 2021 NFL Draft. In his latest mock, NFL.com’s Daniel Jeremiah has Green Bay selecting tackle Teven Jenkins out of Oklahoma State.

Jeremiah writes that “Jenkins can play tackle or slide inside if they need him to”. The Packers love versatility from their offensive linemen as we’ve seen from Billy Turner and Elgton Jenkins.

Teven Jenkins would be able to compete for a starting job at tackle early on, especially with Bakhtiari out, but could also end up moving inside if required.

Aaron Rodgers was sacked a career-low 20 times this past season. The offensive line played a crucial role in the team’s success. When Rodgers was under pressure frequently, as seen in both games against the Bucs and also the matchup with the Carolina Panthers, the offense could stall.

When Rodgers has time, no defense could stop him.

Building on one of the team’s strengths, the offensive line, is a good idea. Enter 2021 with an even better offensive line with good depth at each position, and the Packers will be well set offensively again.