Green Bay Packers: 3 Internal Options At Right Tackle
If the Green Bay Packers do move on from right tackle Bryan Bulaga, here are three internal candidates to replace him on the offensive line.
The Green Bay Packers appear to be in a stalemate with free agent right tackle Bryan Bulaga, as there have been no reports of the two sides working toward a new contract. Bulaga has been a staple at right tackle since being drafted with the 23rd overall pick.
Bulaga has started 111 games for the Packers over that time and has been one of the very best when he’s on the field. The issue is he’s also missed 29 games due to various injuries and he’s only getting older.
Green Bay will save money by not re-signing Bulaga, but they’ll be hard-pressed to find a better or even equal replacement. If they are truly moving on from him, here are three internal candidates to play right tackle next season.
Elgton Jenkins
After being selected in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Elgton Jenkins was spectacular at left guard for the Packers in his rookie season. Taking over as the starter in Week 3, he never relinquished his role.
Jenkins is a menacing blocker who will only continue to get better so why mess with his success? It appears unlikely Green Bay will move him across the line, but he possesses the skills to play right tackle in theory. The least likely on this list to switch positions, Jenkins is probably staying put at left guard.
Jared Veldheer
The stop-gap option, Jared Veldheer could return after signing with the Packers mid-way through the season. He’ll be 33-years-old before the season begins and certainly isn’t a long-term option. However, he could hold the position over until they find another player to take over.
Veldheer was solid in his spot duty last season which inspires some level of confidence. However, could he hold up for an entire season? That would be tough for him to do, but he certainly presents Green Bay with an option.
Billy Turner
Perhaps, moving Billy Turner to right tackle is the most likely internal option. He has experience at tackle throughout his career, as he’s one of the Packers’ most versatile linemen.
Next. Packers: Signs point to Bulaga not being re-signed. dark
If Turner is moved outside, it could lead to the Packers keeping Lane Taylor and sliding him to right guard. Although far from great, Taylor is a starting-caliber guard in the NFL. This move would provide the most stability for Green Bay’s line and allow them to focus their attention toward other positions in free agency and the draft.