Packers: 1 bold prediction for each rookie heading into 2021 NFL season

Packers’ rookie class bold prediction: Isaiah McDuffie will be key on punt coverages.

Green Bay somewhat surprisingly kept five inside linebackers on their roster, with Isaiah McDuffie being one of them. It’s hard to imagine him getting on the field defensively with De’Vondre Cambell, Krys Barnes, Oren Burks and (probably) Ty Summers all ahead of him on the depth chart. Still, he’ll be asked to be a key contributor on special teams if he’s active on gameday. The Packers have a huge weakness in all areas special teams related and McDuffie can help shore some of that up with stellar coverage on the punt unit.

Packers’ rookie class bold prediction: Cole Van Lanen will be on the roster by the end of the season.

Cole Van Lanen was the sole member of the Packers’ rookie class who didn’t make the roster. However, that doesn’t mean he wasn’t impressive, as it has more to do with the Packers’ depth at the position than it does with Van Lanen’s progress. He’s a versatile offensive lineman who can play either guard or tackle, and he’ll progress on the practice squad throughout the year where Green Bay will keep a close eye on him. Whether it be via injuries or performance, I predict he’ll end up on the roster by the end of the season.