Rookie offensive lineman Jager Burton was a popular pick when the Green Bay Packers selected him 153rd overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
His versatile athleticism made him an intriguing prospect at a position where the Packers need depth and flexibility.
Burton has followed up on that intrigue by quickly winning over coaches, fans, and apparently, onlookers from around the league.
Checking in with some folks around football, some names as standouts from the OTA period:
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) June 9, 2026
• Eagles DB Riq Woolen
• Steelers WR Germie Bernard
• 49ers LB Jaden Duggar
• Cowboys RB Phil Mafah
• Chargers SAF RJ Mickens
• Bears WR Luther Burden III
• Packers iOL Jager…
The Kentucky product is already turning heads, and that's good news for Green Bay. With questions up and down the offensive line, it would be no small luxury to have Burton available to slide in on the interior wherever the Packers need him in case of injury or poor play from the starters.
Don't rule out a close competition for the starting job at right guard between Burton and Anthony Belton, whose place on the depth chart is far from secure. If people around the league are impressed with Burton too - not just Packers fans - that's a great sign for his potential to make an impact in Year 1.
Jager Burton wasted no time making strong first impression
Thus far in OTAs and minicamp, Burton has benefited from a fair share of first-team reps at both guard spots due to injuries. He's used that exposure to his advantage, demonstrating to the Packers and anyone watching that he deserves a shot in the rotation.
Head coach Matt LaFleur said as much on Wednesday when he indicated that Burton is on track to earn real playing time this season. That sends a strong message to any interior lineman. Guards Belton and Aaron Banks and center Sean Rhyan had better bring their A-games to training camp.
What sticks out immediately is Burton's supreme athleticism for his position. His 9.88 Relative Athletic Score ranks near the 99th percentile. But he also has the right attitude to accelerate his rookie development, with LaFleur calling him "extremely coachable," via Packer Report's Andy Herman.
That combination of raw ability and a willingness to learn should more than compensate for his poor "production score," which put Burton at the bottom of his draft class and dragged down his prospect grade.
Burton looks like a potential difference-maker. The Packers believe it, and so do the people who have seen him in action.
The best part? Training camp proper hasn't even kicked off yet, and won't until late July. Burton has all that time and more to hone his craft before the season even starts.
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