Packers Interior Offensive Line Depth a Real Concern

With one preseason game left before the games start to count, the Green Bay Packers are facing some big questions about the depth along their interior defensive line. Assuming everybody stays healthy, we know who the starters will be, with Elgton Jenkins at center, Aaron Banks at left guard and Sean Rhyan at right guard. But if injuries strike at guard or center, the Packers will have to scramble to find players who can step in and play in real game situations. That’s why the Packers interior offensive line depth is a real concern.

Packers Interior Offensive Line Depth a Real Concern: Center Depth

Of the three positions, center is the biggest question mark where depth is concerned. The Packers moved Jenkins to the middle after opting not to re-sign Josh Myers this past offseason. But behind Jenkins there are questions.

Yes, there are two other starters who can play center. Zach Tom has experience playing center in college and took some snaps there in the preseason with the Packers earlier in his career. But Tom is also the best offensive lineman the team has and moving him to center would weaken the offensive line overall and at the vital tackle position.

The next option is Rhyan who has taken snaps at center this preseason and in training camp. However, Rhyan didn’t play particularly well when inserted at center. At best, he would be considered a below-average, stopgap player at the position.

The next player on the depth chart at center is Jacob Monk. But Monk has looked overmatched in both preseason appearances this year whether playing center or guard. He has struggled mightily in pass protection in limited opportunities facing mostly backup players. He does not appear ready to play in a regular season game.

Guard Depth Is Also Suspect

The depth at guard also has more questions than answers at this time. While neither Banks nor Rhyan are Pro Bowl caliber players, both are considered solid starters. Banks relies on his strength to overpower defenders especially when blocking for the run. Rhyan adds a mean streak and intensity that sets the tone for the Green Bay offensive line.

But behind this duo, there are no proven players. Donovan Jennings has not looked good in training camp or in the preseason and has yet to fulfill some of the early promise he showed after the team signed him.

Neither Kadeem Telfort nor Lecitus Smith have proven to be more than special teams players and both look like guys who wouldn’t hold up well playing for more than a few snaps if they had to go up against opposing starters. J.J. Lippe may eventually develop into a solid backup but is presently making the jump from playing at Northern Illinois to the NFL and probably won’t see many snaps on offense this season if he makes the team.

Packers Interior Offensive Line Depth a Real Concern: The Best Option?

The best available option right now if injuries struck along the interior offensive line would involve taking advantage of the Packers desire to draft and sign versatile offensive linemen. Regardless of who wins the left tackle battle between Rasheed Walker and Jordan Morgan, if injuries force one of the three interior line starters to the sidelines, moving Morgan to guard would probably make the most sense. If necessary, Rhyan could then move to center. That would mean Walker would play left tackle and Morgan guard.

Another alternative would be this year’s second round pick, Anthony Belton. Belton could play guard in a pinch or move to tackle. Then the Packers could insert Morgan or Rhyan at guard. Of course, as we saw Saturday against the Colts, Belton still has a lot to learn as he makes the adjustment to playing in the NFL.

As of now, the Packers have many options if injuries strike at the interior offensive line. The problem is none of them are proven options. That could become a concern later this season if injuries strike at these positions.