Packers could cut a recent draft pick following the 2024 NFL Draft

The Green Bay Packers could double or even triple down at tackle and guard in the 2024 NFL Draft.

While they are in relatively good shape at the five starting positions, Green Bay lost almost all of its depth in free agency by moving on from David Bakthiari, Jon Runyan, and Yosh Nijman, who combined for 203 career starts with the Packers.

Green Bay has an opening at right guard following Runyan's departure. Third-year Sean Rhyan is the frontrunner to win the job as things stand, but the Packers will likely add competition in the draft. The current backups along the offensive line are Royce Newman, Kadeem Telfort, and Luke Tenuta.

The Packers must add reinforcements, which could be followed by more changes.

Packers could release Royce Newman after 2024 NFL Draft

Royce Newman was a liability when the Packers needed him last season. Newman started two games following an injury to Elgton Jenkins, but head coach Matt LaFleur quickly learned he couldn't trust him in the lineup. Per PFF, Newman allowed one sack, nine pressures, and seven hurries in those games.

Sean Rhyan became the top backup at guard ahead of Newman after those two performances.

It was a similar story in 2022. The Packers' offense couldn't get going against the New York Jets, scoring only 10 points. Aaron Rodgers was under pressure all afternoon long. Newman allowed one sack, five pressures, three hurries, and one QB hit.

Newman has one season remaining on his rookie contract, but with the Packers likely upgrading the offensive line via the draft, they could move on from their former fourth-round pick after the event. Per Over The Cap, Green Bay would create $3.12 million in cap space by releasing Newman. That's a significant saving for a backup who likely won't play many snaps in 2024.

The Packers often target college tackles who can move inside to guard. They love versatility along the line. Two dream first-round targets are Washington's Troy Fautanu and Duke's Graham Barton. They earned elite Relative Athletic Scores and can play all five positions, including left tackle, where they both played in college.

Green Bay can wait until it upgrades the offensive line in the draft, but releasing Newman seems inevitable this offseason.

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