Matt LaFleur provides an important Zach Tom injury update after Family Night

The Green Bay Packers need Zach Tom back.

While he has recovered from a torn pec, the Packers have rotated Andre Dillard and Kadeem Telfort at right tackle, and even Caleb Jones had some first-team reps at Family Night. None of them have provided consistent play on the right side in Tom's absence, highlighting a potential lack of depth along the offensive line.

Tom is coming off an outstanding 2023 season as the starter and should help the offensive line level up once he's fully healthy.

Based on Matt LaFleur's comments after Family Night, his return to team drills sounds imminent.

Packers right tackle Zach Tom could return to full practice next week

The Packers have eased Tom back into action after dealing with a significant injury. He has practiced throughout training camp but hasn't yet participated in team drills. That should change next week.

LaFleur said the plan is for Tom to get some snaps in the 11 versus 11 sessions when the Packers return to practice next week, adding that the former fourth-round pick has "looked great."

And they need him.

Life has been difficult for the offensive line throughout training camp. Jeff Hafley is playing a more aggressive defense than we've seen in recent years, putting the defensive line in the best position to succeed. They've had their way at practice, with LaFleur saying he has had to bring in extra help with chip blocks.

The positive is the defense looks great, but it does raise concerns about the Packers' tackle depth beyond starters Tom and Rasheed Walker.

While the competition for the swing tackle job continues into the opening week of preseason, Tom's return will help the starting five significantly. The Packers will likely ease him in with a snap count initially, but it's great that he is close to 100 percent.

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