For two decades, the Green Bay Packers have enjoyed stability at left tackle with stalwarts like Chad Clifton and David Bakhtiari. Now, with Rasheed Walker departing in free agency, the spotlight turns to Jordan Morgan to see if he can rise to the occasion and become the next cornerstone at this crucial position.
Morgan's performance will be pivotal to the success of the Packers' offensive line in 2026. He's the key player up front, and his ability to anchor the line will be under the microscope.
A significant concern for Green Bay is the lack of depth behind the starters. While re-signing Darian Kinnard on a one-year deal provides some reassurance, the bench lacks experienced backups, creating potential issues if injuries arise.
In recent years, the Packers had the luxury of depth with players like Elgton Jenkins stepping in when Bakhtiari was sidelined. Jenkins, who filled in admirably at left tackle in 2021, exemplifies the type of flexibility Green Bay once enjoyed. However, without Yosh Nijman or a proven backup like Morgan waiting in the wings, the team faces a conundrum if Morgan struggles at left tackle.
One option could be Anthony Belton, who is slated to start at right guard. Moving him to left tackle is a possibility, but it would create a gap at right guard, leading to a domino effect that the Packers would prefer to avoid.
Elsewhere on the line, the Packers can feel confident in Zach Tom at right tackle and Sean Rhyan at center, returning after stepping in for an injured Jenkins in 2025. Aaron Banks needs to step up his game at left guard, while Belton’s development at guard will be intriguing to watch.
The crux of the matter is Morgan’s ability to hold down the left tackle spot. It's a position he excelled in during his college days at Arizona.
Although he's been shuffled around the line, playing guard and right tackle, left tackle is where he feels most at home. Staying healthy and performing well is crucial for Morgan, as inconsistency plagued the line last year.
Morgan faced challenges, particularly at right guard, but showed promise when filling in at right tackle for an injured Tom. The constant position changes can be tough, especially for a young player, but Morgan has shown resilience. After a frustrating Week 16 loss to Chicago, he expressed the challenges of adapting to multiple roles but remained determined to succeed.
Moving forward, it makes sense for the Packers to allow Morgan to focus solely on left tackle, despite their penchant for versatility. In a transition year with Walker's departure, concentrating Morgan’s efforts on mastering left tackle seems the most practical approach.
General manager Brian Gutekunst has praised Morgan’s versatility and performance late in the season. While versatility is valuable, letting Morgan hone in on left tackle could be the key to unlocking his potential.
In 2026, Jordan Morgan’s role as the linchpin of the offensive line will be critical. The Packers need to solidify this position before considering adjustments elsewhere, ensuring that Morgan can thrive and the line can function at its best.