The Green Bay Packers still have unanswered questions as they prepare to face the Denver Broncos in their second preseason game. There are still several position battles up for grabs and spots on both the 53-man roster and the practice squad at stake. How players perform on the field Friday night will be a critical factor in determining who earns those roster spots. These are five Packers to watch in preseason game 2 against the Broncos. This list is limited to players fighting for roster spots or roles in the lineup. They are not listed in any particular order.

Five Packers Players to Watch Against the Broncos, Number One: WR J. Michael Sturdivant

Undrafted free agent wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant has been playing well since OTAs and remains in the thick of the fight for one of the final roster spots at wide receiver. Every day, Sturdivant makes a noteworthy play that impresses coaches and teammates alike. He also possesses a great combination of size and athletic ability which the Packers like.

The key for Sturdivant will be playing consistently. He was unable to do that at college. He never matched the production of his first season. Another strong preseason performance will keep Sturdivant in the thick of the fight for the final roster spot at wide receiver.

Number Two: OL Jager Burton

The poor play of Anthony Belton in camp has opened up the right guard spot and rookie Jager Burton remains a leading candidate to win it.

The rookie fifth-round pick will battle with veteran Jacob Monk for the starting right guard spot. The Kentucky alum has been a bright spot since OTAs. His ability to protect the quarterback will be a critical factor in this battle.

Time is on Burton’s side. He should lift his game as he gets more comfortable playing in the NFL. Even if he doesn’t claim a starting job before the start of the season, he could earn one before his rookie campaign is over.

Five Packers Players to Watch Against the Broncos, Number Three: Edge Brenton Cox

Brenton Cox has always been productive when he’s on the field. He has enjoyed another solid camp and has the chance to play a big role on defense especially before the return of Micah Parsons from injury.

Cox recorded a sack last week against Pittsburgh and continues to make plays in practice on a consistent basis. He’s been a regular visitor in the backfield during practice.

One of his big problems has been staying healthy. Last year, a groin injury limited him to just four games. Cox has more experience than the players he’s competing with at edge which could help him.

He will need to continue to make plays against the Broncos to solidify a roster spot and then a bigger role in the edge rotation which is there for the taking.

Number Four: DB Kamal Hadden

Cornerback Kamal Hadden will be seeing his first game action Friday since he suffered a serious injury in the Packers loss to the Ravens last season. In practice, he has seen time at safety and in the slot in addition to his usual boundary corner spot.

The poor play of the Packers depth corners against the Steelers leaves Hadden with a golden opportunity to establish himself as one of the top depth players at this position when the season starts.

Five Packers Players to Watch Against the Broncos, Number Five: S Mark Perry

Mark Perry played well against the Steelers, doing a solid job in coverage and making a big tackle in the open field as well. Perry also played well on special teams which is a key to making the roster for depth players.

Perry will need another strong performance to secure a job on the 53-man roster or at least a spot on the Packers practice squad. He’s in a battle with Murvin Kenion who also should be watched in this game.

 

 

 

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