Gutekunst has a good track record in the draft. Having selected Jaire Alexander, Elgton Jenkins, Rashan Gary, and Darnell Savage in recent years. Last season, he picked Eric Stokes, Josh Myers, and Royce Newman — all three are already starters. However, 2022 could mark the end for some of Brian Gutekunst’s draft picks from over those same years. In this article we will go over three of them.
Wide Receiver Amari Rodgers
All signs point to Amari Rodgers making a strong comeback this year. He has mentioned how much better shape he is as well as what held him back in 2021. However with such a slow start to his career, we can’t help but be reminded by J’Mon Moore. Moore was drafted in the fourth round of the 2018 draft, and was cut in August 2019. Rodgers had just four receptions for 45 yards and no touchdowns. He also had 20 returns for 166 yards before losing the role due to his many mistakes on the field.
With the crowded wide receiving room in Green Bay, Amari Rodgers needs to make the most of every opportunity he gets. While I wouldn’t consider him a “likely” cut candidate, I wouldn’t rule it out if he has a disappointing pre season.
ILB Isaiah McDuffie
After re-signing De’Vondre Campbell and drafting Quay Walker all in one off-season, the Packers are all of a sudden stacked at Linebacker. Krys Barnes should remain the frontrunner to be the main backup behind those top two. Ty Summers has established himself as a key special-teamer for the Packers.
On top of all that, the Packers converted Tariq Carpenter from safety to linebacker after the 2022 NFL Draft. Where does this leave Isaiah McDuffie, a sixth-round pick last year? Last season he was active for 13 games but didn’t play on defense once. His role was limited to special teams. He will need to show up and show out to earn his spot on the 53 this year.
OL Cole Van Lanen
The Packers lost Lucas Patrick and Billy Turner this offseason. Their response? Drafting three offensive linemen: Sean Rhyan in the third round, Zach Tom in the fourth, and Rasheed Walker in the seventh.
When fully healthy, the Packers have David Bakhtiari, Elgton Jenkins, Yosh Nijman, Rhyan, Zach Tom, and Rasheed Walker all with experience playing tackle. Jon Runyan, Royce Newman, Jenkins, Rhyan, and Zach Tom have significant experience at guard.
According to Pro Football Reference, Van Lanen was only active for one game last season, in which he played one snap. His versatility will be important for making the roster, however it may not be enough. The Wisconsin Badgers product will need to prove he is worthy of a depth spot on the roster.
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