3 Burning Questions for Packers’ Special Teams Ahead of Training Camp

The Green Bay Packers’ special teams unit has witnessed a fair amount of flux during head coach Matt LaFleur’s tenure, undergoing frequent changes. Fortunately, the return of special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia provides much-needed stability for the unit.

Bisaccia made a remarkable impact in his first season, helping the unit ascend from the depths of the NFL’s special teams rankings. Although they didn’t reach lofty heights, finishing 22nd in Rick Gosselin’s 2022 Special Teams rankings, the Packers made noticeable progress. As Year 2 of Bisaccia’s leadership unfolds, they can expect further transitions within the unit.

With a new kicker on the roster, and a rookie at that, following Mason Crosby’s departure to the free-agent market, Green Bay faces an adjustment in the kicking department. Additionally, the team will feature a fresh long-snapper. As we delve into the realm of the Packers’ special teams, let’s explore three burning questions that lie ahead for this unit.

The Green Bay Packers’ special teams is once again a weak link on the team, sparking these three burning questions ahead of training camp.

Will Anders Carlson prove himself worthy of the starting job?

The Packers made a calculated move by using a sixth-round pick to select kicker Anders Carlson in the draft. Surprisingly, they have not brought in another kicker to provide competition during training camp. One possible explanation for this approach could be the availability of Mason Crosby, who remains a free agent and resides in Green Bay, potentially serving as an emergency option if needed.

During Organized Team Activities and minicamp, Carlson showcased his abilities. He displayed a powerful leg and improved accuracy, converting 11 out of 12 field goal attempts. This performance is particularly encouraging considering his inconsistency during his college career. Bisaccia has expressed confidence in Carlson, but the young kicker will need to validate that trust by proving himself worthy of the starting job.

As the Packers navigate the kicking situation, Carlson’s development and performance in training camp will be closely monitored, ultimately determining whether he can secure the role as Green Bay’s primary kicker for the upcoming season.

Another new long-snapper?

Green Bay has experienced a revolving door of long snappers in recent years, changing them more often than I do underwear. Following a period of long-term consistency with Rob Davis and Brett Goode, the team has been in search of a reliable long snapper since 2017.

In their quest for stability, the Packers have brought in two new contenders, Broughton Hatcher and Matt Orzech, to compete for the role. Orzech is the lead dog, signing a three-year contract and recieing a nice signing bonus. The team is hopeful that Orzech can provide the much-needed stability to the long snapping position, ensuring smooth operations for the Packers’ special teams unit.

How will Packers’ roster makeup be impacted?

Since the arrival of Bisaccia, the Packers have undergone a strategic shift in their approach to special teams. Instead of targeting players primarily for their defensive abilities and expecting them to adjust to special teams, they now prioritize individuals with proven experience or the potential to excel in special teams roles.

This new strategy has led the Packers to sign players such as Tarvarius Moore, Dallin Leavitt, Rudy Ford, Eric Wilson, and others. While these players bring valuable contributions to special teams, their impact on the defensive side of the ball may be limited. This approach has resulted in a shortage of legitimate safeties on the roster, making it the team’s weakest position heading into the upcoming season.

While the emphasis on bolstering special teams can yield positive results in that area, it raises concerns about whether the defensive performance could suffer as a consequence. The Packers will need to strike a delicate balance to ensure that their special teams improvement does not compromise the overall effectiveness of the defense.