3 Packers who could be cut before playing a snap in 2021

C Jake Hanson

Jake Hanson was one of three interior offensive linemen drafted in the sixth round a year ago. He didn’t make the 53-man roster last September and spent most of the season on the Packers’ practice squad. To have any chance of playing a meaningful role along the offensive line this year, Hanson will need to show significant improvements in his second season.

That hasn’t been helped by the arrival of three more offensive linemen in this year’s draft, most notably second-round pick Josh Myers, who could be the long-term replacement for Corey Linsley at center.

Hanson may need to show he can play at guard, but there is a lot of competition at that position. The Packers’ starters last season at guard were Pro Bowler Elgton Jenkins and Lucas Patrick, while Jon Runyan Jr. and Billy Turner are both great options if either starter gets injured. Rookies Royce Newman and Cole Van Lanen both have the versatility to play guard as well as tackle.

With the arrival of three offensive linemen who can all play at the interior positions, it sure feels like Hanson has a mountain to climb to get in contention for a spot on the 53-man roster this summer. He will need to impress at training camp.