As the offseason approaches, the Green Bay Packers face a critical decision regarding left tackle Rasheed Walker, who's set to hit free agency. With projections suggesting Walker could command over $20 million annually, the Packers might find themselves in a tough spot. While Walker's journey from being the 249th overall pick to a starting role is commendable, his performance hasn't quite reached the level that would justify such a hefty contract.
Walker has shown some vulnerabilities, particularly in terms of penalties, ranking among the most penalized linemen last season. This is a red flag for the Packers, who need consistent reliability on their offensive line.
In terms of numbers, Walker tied for the 17th-most penalties among all linemen, and his Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 64.6 places him in the lower half of his position group. While his pass protection is slightly above average with a 70.0 grade, his run-blocking leaves much to be desired, scoring just 55.4. For a player who allowed 34 pressures and five sacks, these stats highlight areas of concern that the Packers can't ignore, especially if it means paying top dollar.
Enter Jordan Morgan, a promising second-year guard who might just be the solution the Packers need. Morgan, a former first-round pick, has shown potential and versatility, grading 48th among guards with a decent showing in both pass and run blocking. Transitioning him to left tackle could be a strategic move, despite the learning curve, given his solid performance across the line.
Morgan's rookie contract, including his signing bonus, offers a cost-effective alternative to Walker's potential new deal. With fewer penalties and a promising trajectory, Morgan could be the key to maintaining stability on the line without breaking the bank.
As the Packers weigh their options, it's clear that letting Walker walk might be the most prudent decision. If he finds a new home with the Browns, as some suggest, it could be a move that benefits all parties involved.