The Green Bay Packers’ rookies reported for training camp last Wednesday, July 17, while veterans reported Sunday, July 21. The Packers started camp Monday, July 22, marking the first day that practice is open to the public.
One of the more interesting storylines surrounding the team is who will start on their offensive line since two starters departed in free agency. They parted ways with David Bakhtiari, and Jon Runyan Jr. signed with the Giants.
Due to the injury of their versatile offensive lineman, the Packers had to shuffle their offensive line.
The Green Bay Packers’ versatile offensive lineman missed offseason workouts due to injury
Zach Tom suffered a torn pectoral muscle while weightlifting in the offseason. Tom missed OTAs and mandatory minicamp as he recovered from the injury. They were optimistic that he would be ready for training camp.
The Packers placed him on the active/PUP list ahead of training camp, meaning he will count against the 90-man roster and isn’t allowed to practice. If he does practice, they must activate him to the active roster. Thankfully, he is ready to go.
The Green Bay Packers activated him on Monday
According to Wes Hodkiewicz of Packers.com, the Packers activated Zach Tom off the active/PUP list and will be limited.
Zach Tom is coming off PUP this morning but will be limited at practice #Packers
— Wes Hodkiewicz (@WesHod) July 22, 2024
Who filled in for the injured offensive lineman?
Two players alternated at right tackle during offseason workouts. Jordan Morgan played three offensive line positions, including left tackle, left guard, and right tackle. Andre Dillard also received playing time at left and right tackle as well.
Dillard enters his sixth year in the league and is coming off a disappointing 2023 season with the Titans, surrendering the most sacks in a career-high ten starts at left tackle.
Where will he line up in 2024
The Packers have a lot of confidence in Tom and believe he can excel at right tackle, guard, and center. Here’s a direct quote from within the organization that told Rob Demovsky in April.
“I was told by a couple of people within the organization, they think Zach Tom is a Pro Bowl right tackle, an All-Pro guard and a potential Hall of Fame center,” Demovsky said on the “Wilde and Tausch Show” on Friday.
Due to Tom’s injury, it’s unclear whether he will remain at right tackle or move to center or right guard this season. We will have a better answer as they practice. We will keep you posted.
