The Green Bay Packers are going through a historic turnover on their roster. This has been particularly prominent with their first-round draft picks in recent years. As the team gears up for the upcoming season, players like Quay Walker, Devonte Wyatt, and Lukas Van Ness are stepping into more prominent roles. Their growth will be imperative for the Packers as they look to contend in the tight margins of today’s NFL.
Quay Walker has been a revelation this season in his progression as a player. That made him the first off-ball linebacker taken in the first round since A.J. Hawk in 2006. He expressed confidence in his growing understanding of the defense, stating, “I’m flying faster, [and] I know the defense way, way better.” It’s the understanding and more coordination that’s led to improved on-field performance. In fact, over the team’s first three seasons, Walker was the team’s leading tackler.
Despite extremely promising trajectories, Walker and other first-rounder Devonte Wyatt suffered from a lack of playing time in the 2022 season. Neither player played more than 39% of the defensive snaps. This limited participation made it unclear how they were contributing to the team’s success. Wyatt’s fifth-year option was exercised, making sure he stays with the team through 2026. As a rookie, he produced four sacks, but a broken thumb curtailed his availability last year.
Special teams star Lukas Van Ness would be one of their most important defensive players. Most recently, of course, he’s in recovery from a groin injury that sidelined him. Feedback from DeMarcus Covington, the team’s new defensive line coach, has played a key role in helping Van Ness get through these hurdles. Van Ness noted Covington’s influence on the field. He’s done a really good job. The key thing is to see how he goes out there and plays, though.
While the young players have been the subject of much conversation as they continue to improve, Jordan Morgan’s journey has been equally captivating. Restricted by a shoulder injury during the 2022 season, Morgan is in line for a much bigger role this time around. His recent comments reflect a newfound confidence: “I mean way more confident out there. I feel really good out there. Everybody tells me that. In practice, all the coaches are saying I look confident out there and I do feel confident, so it’s just matching up.” Luke Butkus, the team’s offensive line coach, acknowledged Morgan’s athleticism and potential contributions to the team.
As for Rasheed Walker, he’s been a reliable standout in the trenches on offense. He’s been the starter for 35 out of the last 37 games, counting playoffs. His high floor gives necessary stability as the team introduces younger players into bigger roles.
In addition to individual performances, the team’s coaching staff has played a crucial role in fostering an environment conducive to growth. Offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich praised the efforts of young players like Morgan and Van Ness: “He’s done a really good job, and that was the big thing, just see how he goes out there and plays.” It is the focus on player confidence and awareness that lies at the heart of their evolution.
The upcoming season presents an opportunity for these young talents to demonstrate their skills and contribute meaningfully to the Packers’ objectives. With improvements in conditioning and understanding of playbooks, Walker and his peers are eager to showcase their capabilities on game day.
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