The Green Bay Packers’ highly anticipated 2024 draft class is undergoing its initial proving grounds as training camp progresses, offering early glimpses into which rookies are poised to make a sudden impact. Despite some early injury concerns, the eight-player class, spearheaded by first-round pick Matthew Golden, shows promising signs for a team aiming beyond just a playoff berth. General Manager Brian Gutekunst noted the rookies are “attacking things the right way,” adjusting well to the team’s culture and earning acceptance from their peers, a crucial step in their development.
Wide receiver Matthew Golden has undeniably emerged as a standout, enjoying a sensational start that extends back to OTAs. His consistent ability to get open and secure catches, coupled with a remarkable zero drops reported during practices, underscores his readiness. This early chemistry with quarterback Jordan Love is particularly encouraging, with Golden actively seeking feedback on routes and understanding the offense, vital for any new offensive weapon in the Green Bay Packers’ system.
On the offensive line, Anthony Belton is carving out a potential role as a swing tackle, demonstrating versatility by playing both left tackle with the second-team offense and right tackle with the third. While established veterans like Rasheed Walker and Zach Tom currently hold starting spots, Belton’s adaptability suggests he could be a valuable depth piece for the Green Bay Packers, especially as the season progresses and injuries inevitably arise.
Injuries have unfortunately hampered some prospects, including defensive back Savion Williams, who missed significant time due to labrum surgery and later a concussion and an undisclosed issue during training camp. Despite these setbacks, coaches praise Williams’ coachability and dedication, acknowledging his steep learning curve but expressing optimism about his “evolution” throughout camp and into the regular season for the Green Bay Packers.
Linebacker Collin Oliver, a talented pass-rusher from Oklahoma State, has also been sidelined, missing all of training camp with a hamstring injury after a foot injury cut short his senior collegiate season. Gutekunst highlighted Oliver’s intriguing skill set as an edge rusher with speed, along with his versatility to play both with his hand down and standing up, making his return to the field a key development for the Green Bay Packers’ defensive scheme and special teams unit.
The battle for a spot on the defensive line is intense, with Warren Brinson vying for an opening created by a free agency departure. Despite limited starts in college, the Green Bay Packers envision Brinson as a potential three-down player due to his athleticism and length. He, along with undrafted rookie Nazir Stackhouse, is competing to fill the run-stuffing void, with Gutekunst expressing confidence in their potential to grow into similar roles as former Packers defensive tackle T.J. Slaton.
In the secondary, cornerback Micah Robinson’s return from an early training camp absence has been noteworthy. He immediately showcased his coverage abilities, including impressively breaking up a deep pass intended for Matthew Golden. With roster spots at cornerback still fluid beyond established players, Robinson is firmly in the mix, competing against other promising talents and demonstrating the “overlap” in techniques from his college play that made him an attractive draft pick for the Green Bay Packers.
Overall, the Green Bay Packers’ rookie class is navigating the demanding transition to the NFL with a mix of standout performances and challenging setbacks. Their progress through training camp is a crucial indicator of their immediate impact and long-term potential, providing a vital foundation for the team’s aspirations this season and beyond.
Leave a Reply