Green Bay Packers: 3 Biggest Surprises Through 13 Games
By Paul Bretl
Elgton Jenkins
It didn’t take Elgton Jenkins much time during OTAs and Training Camp to make himself known as an NFL-ready guard and someone who could push Lane Taylor for the starting job. So him having success this season isn’t too much of a surprise, however, his sheer dominance as a rookie has been.
Since taking over for Taylor, Jenkins has taken 476 pass-blocking snaps and he still hasn’t given up a single sack and he’s just allowed one quarterback hit. Which didn’t come until week 13 against the New York Giants. He’s incredibly strong and once he has a hold of the defender, they aren’t going anywhere. But he also posses great footwork and athleticism which helps him get outside quickly in Matt LaFleur’s outside zone run scheme while also being able to get to the second level to make a block.
Watch how Elgton Jenkins (No. 74) passes off his defender to the left tackle then resets to take on another pass rusher. Jenkins is starting his eighth game, but he already looks like a veteran. Great find by the Packers. pic.twitter.com/0zoriBkIMN
— Jason B. Hirschhorn (@by_JBH) November 10, 2019
As Jason Hirschhorn mentioned in that tweet, from his play to his decision-making Jenkins looks like an NFL veteran and he has for most of the season. While drafting an offensive lineman in the second round isn’t the sexiest selection by any means, it was needed and GM Brian Gutekunst hit a home run with Elgton Jenkins.