The Green Bay Packers did not make a tremendous amount of noise in free agency this offseason. They brought in cornerback Nate Hobbs from Las Vegas, guard Aaron Banks from San Francisco. They re-signed a few of their own guys. Green Bay got more attention for its draft, which included receiver Matthew Golden in the first round. In ESPN’s top 50 offseason addition rankings, however, it was not Golden but Banks who earned a place.
Green Bay Packers o-line gets boost from San Fran manhandler
NFL writer Matt Bowen, who played two seasons for the Packers as a defensive back, includes free agency signings, trade pickups, and draft picks in his list of the league’s most impactful transactions thus far in 2025. The signing of one ex-Packer leads all others.
Of the 50 total slots, 14 were occupied by draft selections, including five chosen after Golden. That doesn’t mean he was snubbed; plenty of players drafted before him also failed to make the cut.
At least for Packers fans, though, it’s a bit surprising to see the “Golden child” of significant hype omitted in favor of several second-rounders. Not everyone was on board with Green Bay taking him so high – he has his doubters– but other experts believe he has elite potential.
The Packer addition who did draw a spot – the team’s only entry – was Banks at no. 35.
Drafted 48th overall four years ago by the 49ers, the 27-year-old has started 43 games through four seasons. While the contract he got from Green Bay is probably an overpay at four years for $77 million, he should bring a lot to the line as the starting left guard.
Bowen writes, “At 6-5 and 325 pounds, the 2021 second-round pick is built to create daylight for running back Josh Jacobs in the Packers’ gap run scheme. And he has the strength to anchor against interior bull rushers in pass protection. This is a big upgrade for Matt LaFleur’s offensive line.”
The definition of a workhorse, Jacobs could certainly use some opportunities for easier sledding. Bigger openings could increase his efficiency. Although he piled up 1,329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns last season, he graded out less favorably in more advanced stats like EPA or DVOA.
Only 27, Jacobs has accrued a lot of miles in his six-year career. Having a bruiser like Banks leading the way will help ensure he keeps his legs beneath him as the season wears on. Upgrading Jordan Love’s protection is a major, if not even more important bonus.
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