Packers: Predicting which players make 53-man roster on offense

Predicting which players make the Packers’ 53-man roster on offense.

Just a few weeks into camp, the roster is beginning to come into focus. Certain players are beginning to separate themselves in position battles, others are still very much up in the air.

There is no question this is a deeper roster than a year ago, so production and availability are going to be crucial over these last few weeks leading up to final cut downs.

As it stands, I break down the current state of each offensive position group – citing who would likely make the team if final cut-downs were today.

Quarterback (2)

In: Aaron Rodgers, Jordan Love

Out: Kurt Benkert

This is what was to be to be expected, no surprises here. Aaron Rodgers is the reigning MVP and Jordan Love is the heir apparent under his tutelage. It was highly encouraging seeing actual on field snaps from Love against the Texans, which were largely positive.

He had a few flashes where he showed off his elite level arm strength, but more important than that was watching him work through his progressions. Yes it’s just the pre-season and he has a long way to go, but it’s hard not to be encouraged by what we’ve seen thus far.

Kurt Benkert can really spin it and is a player I’d imagine the Packers are happy to have as a third option. I have no doubt the fan-favorite Benkert will find himself on the practice squad.

Running back (4)

In: Aaron Jones, AJ Dillon, Kylin Hill, Patrick Taylor

Out: Dexter Williams 

You can just go ahead and sharpie in the first three backs mentioned, as they each project to have a specific role for this offense. Aaron Jones/AJ Dillon are going to form a highly productive committee that this offense will center around.

Then there’s the seventh-round pick Kylin Hill, who is just a really athletic back with some burst and noteworthy pass-catching chops – which we all know Matt LaFleur covets. Kylin Hill is already getting looks as the primary return man, so his contribution on special teams makes him a lock.

The Packers could opt to keep just three backs on the 53 and I wouldn’t be surprised, but I think Patrick Taylor is someone they find value in. He’s in a different mold than either Jones or Hill, so as a bigger back with some versatility I think there’s a place for him. It’s going to be an uphill battle to make the roster though, as the Packers have very few spots available.