Packers 2021 roster preview: What to expect from Kylin Hill
With Jamaal Williams departing in free agency, the Green Bay Packers needed to add some depth at running back in the draft.
And that’s what they did by drafting Kylin Hill on the final day. But while Hill will likely be competing for the third spot on the depth chart, that doesn’t mean he can’t be involved on offense right away. But first, he must win a training camp battle for the number three spot behind Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon.
Can Hill make the 53-man roster?
2020 stats
Hill only played in three games at Mississippi State last year, rushing for 58 yards on 15 carries. In his last full season, in 2019, he had 242 carries for 1,350 yards and 10 touchdowns.
He’s also contributed in the receiving game. Over the past two seasons, Hill has caught 41 passes for 417 yards and two touchdowns.
Will he make the roster?
My prediction is yes. Hill will need to show he’s ready over the summer at training camp and in the preseason, but he should be considered the frontrunner for the number three spot on the depth chart.
What to expect in 2021
First of all, Hill needs to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. He will face competition from Dexter Williams and Patrick Taylor, although we shouldn’t rule out the possibility of the Packers keeping four running backs, which would make it even more likely he makes the 53.
Matt LaFleur likes to lean on his running back depth as we’ve seen in the past. That means even as the third running back on the roster, there will be opportunities. That should be especially true for Hill as he’s shown he can contribute in the receiving game. That versatility should give him more opportunities in LaFleur’s offense.
According to Bill Huber of Sports Illustrated, a scout he spoke to believes Hill was a “steal” where the Packers drafted him in the seventh round.
If that’s true, Hill should make the 53-man roster and secure the number three spot behind Jones and Dillon. It’ll be exciting to see what he can do when he gets opportunities over the summer.