It’s a good thing the Packers value versatility on the offensive line.
Center Josh Myers is headed to the Jets. Remember when the Packers flirted with Zach Tom to play center in camp last summer?
Let’s put that rumor to bed right now. Tom is easily the best offensive lineman on the roster, which means it’s time to move him to the most valuable offensive line position.
It’s time to move Tom to left tackle.
Rasheed Walker has been OK, but if you want someone blocking your blind side, it has to be Tom. Elgton Jenkins will slide over to center, where he started 26 games at Mississippi State.
And if anyone is still unsure about Tom, the 2022 fourth round pick is ranked No. 15 among all offensive linemen according to Pro Football Focus. He only allowed 22 hurries this year and he was the best run blocker on the Packers by a wide margin.
With Jenkins at center and Tom left tackle, the offensive line will take shape and Jordan Love will know what to expect from his big fellas up front.
It will also allow Packers coach Matt LaFleur to utilize more stretch running plays. Josh Jacobs will always be the tank that opts to run through defenders but MarShawn Lloyd or Jayden Reed are dynamic, quick ball carriers that can quickly change direction. The Packers also may add a quick rookie running back to this mix as well, seeing as how this draft is one of the deepest running back classes in a long time.
That’s why the Packers need their best pass rusher on the edge. In order for play-action or run-pass-option plays to work effectively, you need to be confident on the edge. The Packers were OK on the edge last year, but pressure from the edge forced Love out of the pocket and he often made throws he didn’t want to make.
The Packers invested in Love by making him one of the highest paid players in the league. Now they need to keep reinvesting in him by keeping him upright.
Anytime talk is centered on the offensive line, most people tune out. Look at the Bears. They will make a dramatic turnaround from last year just because they signed three offensive linemen that can come in and play right away.
Tom has been the Packers best offensive lineman since 2023. It’s time to put him in the best offensive line position.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.
__________________________
Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn
__________________________
NFL Categories:
Green Bay Packers