The Green Bay Packers are halfway through training camp and the battle for roster spots continues to heat up. As always, some players that were lower on the depth chart to start training camp have exceeded expectations. This doesn’t guarantee them a spot on the initial 53-man roster or even on the practice squad, but it certainly increases their chances. These lesser-known Packers have been impressing the coaching staff at training camp. None of these players started last year and many were considered longshots to make the team. They are not listed in any particular order.
Lesser-Known Packers Impressing the Coaching Staff at Training Camp, Number Five: OL Jacob Monk
Injuries have prevented several starters along the offensive line from practicing and that has given some backups a chance to get time with the starters. With Zach Bako-Bewele (formerly Zach Tom) and Aaron Banks missing time and incumbent right guard Anthony Belton often shifting to right tackle, Jacob Monk has seen time with the starters at right guard.
Monk has been challenged for the swing interior offensive lineman position by rookie Jager Burton. While the rookie received most of the attention, Monk showed he will not give up that spot without a fight. With Belton struggling, Monk and Burton could even be pushing for the starting job at right guard if they continue to play well.
Number Four: TE Drake Dabney
Tucker Kraft continues to be brought back gradually, and Luke Musgrave remains on the PUP list with a neck injury. The Packers recently signed two new tight ends when depth players were also injured. The mass of injuries gave Drake Dabney a chance to prove what he can do, and he surprised people with a strong camp.
Dabney spent last season on the Packers practice squad. He has taken advantage of his opportunities and has a better chance of making the roster as a result. Dabney’s blocking has been a pleasant surprise. That may be an important factor in his chances to stick around this season.
Lesser-Known Packers Impressing the Coaching Staff at Training Camp, Number Three: DL Anthony Campbell
Few people knew much about Anthony Campbell for training camp, but he continues to make plays and is gaining the attention of the coaching staff.
The 6’6”, 307-pound University of Miami alum has stood out for his ability to knock down passes during practices. He made plays nearly every day since camp started, and that gives him the opportunity to at least make the practice squad. The defensive line has depth, so Campbell still faces a challenge to make the team. But he has certainly done enough to improve his chances.
Number Two: S Mark Perry
Safety may be the strongest position group on the roster right now, but that hasn’t stopped Mark Perry from doing everything he can to impress the coaches. The team has four safeties with roster spots all but locked up in Xavier McKinney, Evan Williams, Javon Bullard, and Kitan Oladapo. That likely leaves one more roster spot to be fought for.
The key to making the roster may be special teams contributions. Perry has been playing with the first- string kickoff teams and doing a good job. We’ll see if his play will be enough to earn him a roster spot or at least a spot on the practice squad.
Lesser-Known Packers Impressing the Coaching Staff at Training Camp, Number One: OL John Williams
Many fans overlooked 2025 seventh-round pick John Williams after he missed his rookie year due to a back injury. But Williams has returned and played well in training camp so far.
The University of Cincinnati alum played left tackle in college but has shown the versatility the Packers love in camp this year. Williams has lined up at center, left guard and left tackle in camp.
Williams still has more work to do, but he should at least make the practice squad with a chance to contribute if he continues to play well in the preseason.
Follow Gil Martin on Twitter @GilPackers
Click here for more great Packers coverage
Check out our YouTube channel here
