Packers: Five players to watch in preseason opener vs. 49ers
3. OL Zach Tom
Rookie Zach Tom has rare versatility. He can line up at all five offensive line spots. The fourth-round pick has been used at various positions along the offensive line this summer as head coach Matt LaFleur tries to find where he best fits.
With David Bakhtiari and Elgton Jenkins still out due to injury, there is some uncertainty at the tackle spots for Week 1. That’s where Tom could come in.
Tom has spent a lot of time with the first-team offensive line at training camp, and he has most recently got reps at right tackle.
#Packers rookie Zach Tom getting a hard look at RT. He’s been there all day again, with Royce Newman at RG.
— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) August 4, 2022
The Packers have an incredible track record of finding starting offensive linemen in the middle rounds. The early signs seem to indicate that Tom could be the next longtime starter selected in the fourth round by the Packers.
What we don’t yet know is Tom’s role for the 2022 season. There’s still a chance he will be a backup, although his impressive performances at practice have shown he’s ready for a starting role.
It’s now about finding his best position. While Bakhtiari and Jenkins remain out, tackle is a great option for Tom.
After impressing on the practice field, we’ll get to see Tom up against 49ers pass rushers this week in live game action. It will be interesting to see whether he plays at just tackle or is moved around.