Packers: 3 Most Important Position Battles in 2020 Training Camp
These three positional battles in Training Camp will determine just how successful the Green Bay Packers can be this season.
Let’s break down the three biggest positional battles on the Green Bay Packers, as they open up their 2020 Training Camp.
3. Right Guard: Billy Turner vs Lane Taylor
After starting the first two games at left guard last season, Lane Taylor was abruptly replaced by rookie sensation Elgton Jenkins who started the rest of the season. Lane Taylor figures to be the prominent backup at both guard spots this year, but will have every opportunity to earn a starting gig on the right side.
Billy Turner was the weakest member of a very strong Packers’ offensive line in 2019. His play wasn’t so bad, however, that it would warrant him losing his starting job altogether and getting replaced by Taylor. A more realistic possibility is that Turner slides over to right tackle to replace the departed Bryan Bulaga. If that happens, the right guard spot is likely Taylor’s to lose.
2. Inside LInebacker 2: Oren Burks vs Ty Summers vs Curtis Bolton vs Kamal Martin
The Packers’ inside linebacker position has been a weakness for them for years now. And 2020 won’t be any different. Christian Kirksey was brought in to be the starter, but who knows what will transpire behind him.
Oren Burks is likely the favorite. The former third-round pick has good athleticism and the best natural ability. However, Ty Summers picked up a lot of steam last season and is an extremely hard-worker. If anyone can challenge Burks it’s Summers. Curtis Bolton and Kamal Martin may be long shots, but nobody on this roster has proven themselves worthy of being handed such major responsibilities. This will be a royal rumble that lasts all camp, and likely all season.
1. Running Back 2: Jamaal Williams vs A.J. Dillon
The Packers transitioned to a more run-heavy scheme in Year 1 under head coach Matt LaFleur and seem poised to continue that trend in Year 2. Aaron Jones is the clear lead back, but Green Bay has two good options to back him up.
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Jamaal Williams has been underwhelming during his Green Bay career, and lacks explosiveness. Even if he’s the safer option, A.J. Dillon may win out in the long run. His strong, physical running style is the perfect fit as a change of pace back to Jones. The Packers might also want to groom him as their long-term starter considering both Williams and Jones are free agents in 2021.