Calculated risk backfires, and Packers lose promising offensive lineman in unexpected fashion

Brant Banks key stats in preseason

• 50 total snaps (22 pass, 28 run) at LT
• 89.1 pass block grade
• 69.3 run block grade
• 0 pressures given up
• 100% block efficiency

Incredible preseason performance

Banks was one of the most notable players in preseason for the Packers. Obviously, he had the majority of his reps against backups and third-stringers, but he did pretty well. Banks had 50 snaps at left tackle, not giving up a single pressure.

The undrafted rookie finished the preseason with an 89.1 pass block grade via PFF, the best mark amongst Packers’ offensive linemen in the exhibition games.

Banks played college football at Nebraska and then Rice, where he spent his final two years of eligibility. Undrafted, he signed with the Packers immediately after the draft was over.

When a player is on the practice squad, he's free to sign with anyone else. But at least, the Packers would have the chance to match the offer. When it's a waiver claim, though, player and original team don't have a say.

Offensive line depth

The Packers now have nine linemen on the 53-man roster: Rasheed Walker, Aaron Banks, Elgton Jenkins, Sean Rhyan, Zach Tom, Jordan Morgan, Anthony Belton, Darian Kinnard, and Donovan Jennings. Veteran Lecitus Smith and rookie Dalton Cooper are on the practice squad.

The good news is that center Jacob Monk and guard John Williams are eligible to return from IR/PUP, respectively, and Monk should be good to play relatively soon.

However, losing a promising offensive lineman is never the ideal outcome.