4 Under the Radar Green Bay Packers to Watch in Training Camp
By Paul Bretl
Green Bay Packers Under the Radar Player: Jake Hanson – IOL
When discussing the Packers’ offensive line unit, Jake Hanson is someone who can easily be forgotten about, but if you recall, he did make the 53-man roster in 2021, which came to the surprise of many.
Hanson would spend his rookie season in 2020 on the practice squad and saw only six offensive snaps a season ago, along with just 13 on special teams, according to PFF ($$).
However, I would keep my attention on Hanson for a few reasons. The first being this is his third season in Matt LaFleur’s offense, and there is something to be said for that experience. In addition to playing center, Hanson has also taken snaps at right guard this summer, and we know how important that positional flexibility is to Green Bay.
But perhaps most important, he very well could be the Packers’ second option at center. That starting role will belong to Josh Myers, and as far as backups go, there are few options.
Elgton Jenkins has the ability to play center, but we don’t know when he will be available and when that time comes, he is more valuable on the outside at tackle than at center. Rookie Zach Tom is another candidate, but this is where Hanson’s experience could become a factor and give him the edge.
If the Packers keep nine offensive linemen as they have each of the last three seasons, and we assume that Jenkins begins the year on the PUP list, that leaves two roster spots up for grabs, and I believe one will belong to Hanson.