The Green Bay Packers are heading into the 2026 season with a clear mission: revamp their offensive line to fuel a playoff run. Last season's line fell short, slipping from Pro Football Focus’s sixth-ranked unit in 2024 to 19th in 2025. As one of the weaker groups in the playoffs, there's plenty of room for improvement.
Optimism is on the horizon, though, with hopes pinned on young talent stepping up and a bit of luck in the health department. Yet, the need for a long-term solution at center and depth across the interior remains pressing.
The tackle positions, while somewhat settled, still pose their own questions. So, where do the Packers stand as the new league year approaches?
At tackle, Green Bay has some clarity. Zach Tom, fresh off a contract extension before the 2025 season, stands as the line's cornerstone.
His prowess at right tackle not only elevates the entire unit but also makes him indispensable. The impact of his absence was felt in the games he missed due to injury.
On the left side, Jordan Morgan appears poised to take over following Rasheed Walker’s likely departure in free agency. While Morgan spent much of last season at guard or right tackle, his preseason performance at left tackle showed promise. He’s earned the opportunity to make the spot his own.
Knowing their starting tackles is a luxury many teams don’t have at this stage. However, the Packers aim higher than average.
Recent Super Bowls have underscored the importance of winning in the trenches, and Green Bay needs to extract every ounce of talent from their line. While they've filled the starting tackle spots adequately, depth remains a concern.
Morgan’s lack of experience at left tackle is a point of contention. While he’s the best option, the Packers haven’t officially named him the starter or allowed him to focus solely on the position.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst hinted at Morgan’s potential during the preseason but emphasized his versatility across the line. This approach, while beneficial, leaves some uncertainty.
“If you can keep a guy on a side, left or right, it’s helpful,” Gutekunst noted. “But [Morgan’s] versatility has been a benefit. He’s going to get a lot of opportunity.”
If Morgan thrives, it’s a win. But should he falter, the alternatives are murky. Gutekunst’s commitment to Morgan’s cross-training raises concerns, especially considering Walker’s previous stability at left tackle.
On the right, Tom’s abilities are undeniable. However, he’s coming off an injury that sidelined him for five regular-season games and the Wild Card round.
Gutekunst doesn’t foresee his knee issue affecting the 2026 season, though Tom may miss some offseason time. Ideally, Tom returns strong, building on his promising career and staying healthy.
Yet, the unpredictability of injuries looms large.
Beyond Morgan and Tom, proven depth is scarce. Under Gutekunst, the Packers have favored experienced backup tackles like Jared Veldheer, Dennis Kelly, and Andre Dillard.
Darian Kinnard filled this role last year, bringing much-needed experience amidst a rash of injuries. His postseason experience with the Eagles added value, and he’ll be a restricted free agent in 2026.
If Green Bay opts not to re-sign him, they’ll likely seek a similar veteran presence in free agency.
Anthony Belton, who played tackle early in his rookie season, found more comfort at guard. Though he could fill in at tackle if needed, focusing on guard might be more beneficial for his development.
The rest of the roster lacks significant tackle experience. Ideally, a young player like Donovan Jennings, Travis Glover, or John Williams could step up, echoing the rise of Yosh Nijman and Rasheed Walker. While the Packers have a knack for developing late-round or undrafted players into starters, banking on that is risky.
If Kinnard isn’t retained, finding an experienced free-agent tackle becomes crucial. Even with Tom and Morgan performing well, having insurance is wise given the physical toll on linemen.
Drafting a tackle in April wouldn’t be surprising, though it’s not the top priority with cornerback, defensive line, and interior offensive line needs looming larger. However, Green Bay always looks ahead, and securing a potential successor for Morgan would be prudent.
While tackle is the most promising spot on Green Bay’s line, the entire unit needs a boost. Morgan offers excitement at his preferred position, and Tom is a budding star. Yet, thinking about the future and building depth is always a sound strategy.