The Green Bay Packers are a few weeks away from starting training camp and beginning preparations for the 2024 NFL season. With that in mind, here is a look at the Packers three deepest positions entering training camp. This is based on a combination of overall talent and depth at the position. Obviously, injuries, breakthrough players or slumping players can change this equation during the season.

Ranking the Packers Deepest Positions Entering Training Camp, Number Three: Defensive Line

Some Packers fans may find it a bit surprising to see the defensive line listed here. In recent seasons, the defensive line has often been an area that lacked depth and needed reinforcements.

The change is partially due to the change in defensive philosophy. The Packers let Joe Barry go and brought in Jeff Hafley to be the new defensive coordinator. The Packers will now play a four-man front which means that edge rushers who were outside linebackers last season will now be playing defensive end.

As a result, the Packers have Rashan Gary, Preston Smith, Lukas Van Ness, Kingsley Enagbare, and Brenton Cox as their top five ends.

Inside, Kenny Clark leads a talented group that includes T.J. Slaton, Devonte Wyatt, Colby Wooden and Karl Brooks.

GM Brian Gutekunst did not draft any defensive linemen this year in part due to the team’s depth and talent at the position.

Number Two: Running Back

The Packers running back room looks very different than it did a year ago. The team declined to re-sign Aaron Jones when he refused to take a pay cut. When that happened, Gutekunst signed free agent Josh Jacobs to take over as the number one back.

Jacobs gives the Packers a dual threat as a runner and a receiver. He can also carry the ball more frequently than Jones who was always being spotted due in part to his lack of size.

A.J. Dillon was re-signed on a team-friendly deal to be a change of pace back. He provides the team with a different running style than Jacobs.

They also drafted MarShawn Lloyd in the third round of this year’s NFL Draft. The coaching staff is high on Lloyd’s speed and cutback ability. If he can learn to pass protect and cut down on fumbles, he should play an increasing role in the offense.

Don’t overlook Emanuel Wilson who led the NFL in rushing yards last year in preseason. He will return to fight for a roster spot this season.

Ranking the Packers Deepest Positions Entering Training Camp, Number One: Wide Receiver

It’s true the Packers lack a number one receiver, but this group is very deep and talented. Right now, the team has at least six quality receivers who any NFL team would be happy to put into their lineup.

Christian Watson may be the player with the highest ceiling, but he needs to stay healthy to be effective. When he’s on the field, opposing defenses must always account for his speed and size. The Packers sent him to a hamstring specialist this offseason. They hope this will help him stay healthy.

Romeo Doubs provides the Packers with a consistent weapon. He may not be outstanding at any one thing, but he is very good at most of them. Doubs also has great chemistry with quarterback Jordan Love.

Second-year man Jayden Reed led the Packers in catches and receiving yards last year. He did this despite playing only 56 percent of the team’s offensive snaps last season.

Dontayvion Wicks finished strong and showed a lot of promise. He could provide the team with a strong deep threat and talented depth.

Both Bo Melton and Malik Heath showed their potential when given the chance to play due to injuries. Melton had the team’s first 100-plus yard receiving game. Heath proved reliable when the team needed him. Both are hard workers who provide depth.

This is the team’s deepest and most talented position top to bottom as of right now.

 

 

 

Follow Gil Martin on Twitter @GilPackers

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