Packers veteran could be in danger of losing job to rookie this summer

The Green Bay Packers wanted to create competition across the roster, and they achieved that in the 2024 NFL Draft.

First-round pick Jordan Morgan adds athleticism, elite pass-protection potential, and versatility to the offensive line. It's only a matter of time before he secures a starting job in Matt LaFleur's offense. The question is where he plays.

Elgton Jenkins is a Pro Bowler at left guard, the Packers remain set on Josh Myers continuing at center, and Zach Tom has established himself as an outstanding right tackle, even if the Packers reportedly believe he could be a Hall of Fame center. Recent comments from offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich suggest Tom will remain on the right side of the line.

That leaves two positions: Left tackle and right guard.

While Morgan could move to an interior position, a switch to right guard would take time. He played almost exclusively at left tackle in college. Switching to right guard would require not only an adjustment in position but also the side of the line he plays on.

The Packers will give Morgan a shot at left tackle, which puts Rasheed Walker's starting position in jeopardy.

Rasheed Walker under pressure for Packers starting job following Jordan Morgan's arrival

General manager Brian Gutekunst believes Morgan can play any offensive line position except center, but all signs point to him beginning his Packers career at left tackle. It's the most important position along the line, and also where Morgan played all 2,153 of his snaps for Arizona over the past three seasons. It makes sense to give him an opportunity to play there.

Matt LaFleur confirmed that Morgan will begin at left tackle before getting opportunities elsewhere, and that's where the first-round pick played during rookie minicamp.

Morgan's arm length is a concern for staying at tackle, but his technique, athleticism, and footwork could make up for it.

"Slam-dunk left tackle athlete jumps off tape. Has sweet feet, reactive mirror skills, & recovery quicks to compensate for lack of ideal length," writes Senior Bowl director Jim Nagy. "Simply glides in pass pro. Functions easily laterally and at second-level. Should be even better next fall another year removed from ACL injury."

If Morgan proves he can stay at left tackle, it puts current starter Rasheed Walker under pressure.

Walker overcame a challenging start to finish the second half of last season strong. According to ESPN, he tied for first in the NFL for pass block win rate among tackles. Per PFF, Walker allowed just one sack in the final six games.

But nothing is guaranteed. Walker struggled to find consistency early in the season and will now need to outperform Morgan to prove he is the Packers' long-term starter at left tackle.

LaFleur consistently talks about figuring out the best five along the offensive line. With several linemen capable of playing multiple positions, they have options. Could Morgan play right tackle with Zach Tom moving to center? Sure. Could Elgton Jenkins move to center and Morgan play at left guard?

Anything is possible, but the Packers sound committed to Myers at center, which would likely guarantee Tom remains at right tackle and Jenkins at left guard.

That leaves two spots. If the Packers believe in Morgan's ability to play left tackle, Walker could be the veteran who misses out on a starting job.

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