Packers’ Offensive Line: A Year of Reckoning for Aaron Banks
A year ago, the Green Bay Packers made a bold move to strengthen their offensive line by signing Aaron Banks to a lucrative four-year, $77 million deal. This decision set off a chain reaction, shifting Elgton Jenkins from his natural left guard position to center. Fast forward a year, and it seems that gamble might not have paid off as expected.
The recent buzz, courtesy of SI’s Bill Huber, suggests that Jenkins is likely to be released before the NFL’s league year kicks off on March 11. This move could free up $19.5 million in cap space for the Packers, but it also places Aaron Banks under a microscope as he enters a critical season.
Banks Faces the Heat
For fans scrutinizing last season’s offensive line struggles, Banks emerges as a focal point. His performance with the Packers didn’t match the expectations set by his final season with the 49ers, where he earned a respectable 65.4 grade from Pro Football Focus.
In Green Bay, his grade slipped to 55.6, with 29 pressures and two sacks allowed over 460 pass-blocking snaps. Injuries further compounded his challenges, making him a perceived weak link.
Impact on Elgton Jenkins
The signing of Banks also had repercussions for Jenkins, who, despite turning 30, experienced his toughest season yet. His overall grade dipped to 62.0, and he allowed two sacks before a leg injury cut his season short. The decision to bring in Banks inadvertently contributed to Jenkins’ potential release, shining a harsh light back on Banks.
The Road Ahead for Banks
As Jenkins’ release looms, Banks is set to receive a $9.5 million roster bonus early in the league year. This places him as the second-highest paid offensive lineman on the team, trailing only Zach Tom. Even if the Packers make additional moves, like re-signing Rasheed Walker or acquiring a big-name free agent, Banks will need to elevate his game.
With the potential for three new starters on the line, Banks represents a key piece of continuity. He faces another $9.5 million roster bonus in 2027, and without a significant turnaround, his future with the Packers could be in jeopardy.
A Crucial Season for Banks
The Packers’ decision to shift a two-time Pro Bowler like Jenkins to accommodate Banks was significant. Now, with Jenkins potentially out of the picture, the pressure is on Banks to prove his worth.
If he doesn’t rise to the occasion, the Packers might be forced to reconsider their investment when making roster decisions next spring. The spotlight is firmly on Banks, and how he responds could define the future of Green Bay’s offensive line.