5 darkhorse candidates to make Packers’ initial roster

June 7, 2022; Green Bay, WI, USA; Innis Gaines (38) is shown during Green Bay Packers minicamp Tuesday, June 7, 2022 in Green Bay, Wis. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
June 7, 2022; Green Bay, WI, USA; Innis Gaines (38) is shown during Green Bay Packers minicamp Tuesday, June 7, 2022 in Green Bay, Wis. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Green Bay Packers
August 12, 2022; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back JaMycal Hasty (23) runs the football against Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Jack Heflin (96) during the fourth quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Darkhorse candidates to make Packers’ roster: Jack Heflin, DL

Jack Heflin beat the odds a year ago when he came out of nowhere as an undrafted free agent and made the team. He has a huge heart, never stops working, and always chases the ball. He’ll need another herculean effort if he wants to make the roster this year.

Green Bay’s most improved position appears to be the defensive line where they added free agent Jarran Reed and first-round pick Devonte Wyatt. Those two, along with the huge strides TJ Slaton has made, make this one of the deepest positions on the roster.

With five guaranteed spots, Heflin must convince the Packers to keep six linemen. The good news is he’s off to a great start after the first preseason games where he came up big on several occasions.