29 Roster Locks For Packers’ Initial 53-Man Roster Heading Into Training Camp

The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for the start of training camp on July 26th, and while there are still plenty of uncertainties surrounding their roster, they can take solace in having a core group of 29 players who are virtually guaranteed spots on the initial 53-man roster.

In a notable change, the NFL has reinstated one specific date, August 29th, for teams to trim their roster from 90 players down to 53. This gives the Packers ample time throughout training camp and the preseason to assess their players and make informed decisions on who will remain with the team heading into the regular season.

So, without further ado, let’s delve into the Packers’ 29 players who are considered roster locks as they approach the upcoming training camp. These individuals have showcased their value and earned their spots on the team, providing a sense of stability and reliability as Green Bay navigates the challenges of the preseason and prepares for the start of the NFL season.

These 29 players on the Green Bay Packers are assured of a spot on the initial 53-man roster heading into training camp next week.

Quarterbacks: Jordan Love

Jordan Love has waited patiently for his time as a starting quarterback, sitting for three years behind Aaron Rodgers. There’s a lot to be determined about his play this season, but he can take solace in knowing he’s the unquestioned starter in Green Bay heading into the 2023 NFL season.

Running Backs: Aaron Jones, A.J. Dillon

Similar to last year when Green Bay only kept two running backs on their initial 53-man roster, Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon are at the top of the Packers’ depth chart. They hope to redeem themselves after an underwhelming 2022 campaign that saw Dillon take a step back.

Wide Receivers: Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed

After years of great wide receivers coming through the door, Green Bay’s wide receiver cupboard is suddenly bare. Fortunately, Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs and Jayden Reed will have every opportunity to stamp their brand on the Packers offense this season. They will have ample opportunities to make their mark and showcase their talents in starting roles. The team is excited to see how they can contribute and help fill the void at the wide receiver position.

Tight Ends: Luke Musgrave, Tucker Kraft, Josiah Deguara

The Packers’ tight end position presents an intriguing situation heading into training camp. While Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft are expected to play in more traditional tight end roles, Josiah Deguara brings versatility to the position, being utilized as a fullback and slot receiver as well. How these three players will be utilized and contribute to the offense remains a major question mark for Green Bay as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Offensive Line: David Bakhtiari, Elgton Jenkins, Josh Myers, Jon Runyan, Zach Tom, Yosh Nijman

The Packers return their entire starting offensive line plus the services of Nijman. That’s great stability for a unit that will do everything they can to set Love up for success. The only question is how the starting positions will end up with Tom battling both Nijman and Myers for spots in the first five.

Defensive Line: Kenny Clark, Devonte Wyatt, TJ Slaton, Colby Wooden

The Packers have been searching for the right supporting cast to complement standout defensive lineman Kenny Clark for some time now. In their latest attempt, they are turning to a youth movement, giving increased playing time to Devonte Wyatt and TJ Slaton. The hope is that these young players can step up and provide the assistance that Clark needs along the defensive line. Additionally, rookie fourth-rounder Colby Wooden earns a spot on this list despite not having played in the NFL yet. His potential and the team’s investment in him make him an intriguing player to watch as he begins his professional career. Time will tell if these moves pan out and if the Packers can finally provide Clark with the help he deserves.

Inside Linebackers: De’Vondre Campbell, Quay Walker

Green Bay has the potential to field a formidable duo at inside linebacker with the combination of De’Vondre Campbell and Quay Walker. While Campbell’s performance dipped slightly in 2022, he still proved to be a valuable player. On the other hand, Walker possesses exceptional physical abilities and has the potential to be a standout performer, but he must continue to develop his mental understanding of the game. If Walker can improve his football IQ, the Packers could boast one of the most formidable one-two punches at the inside linebacker position.

Outside Linebackers: Rashan Gary, Preston Smith, Lukas Van Ness

The success of this group hinges heavily on the return of Rashan Gary from his injury prior to the start of the season. Without him, the on-field performance of the unit could experience significant fluctuations. Preston Smith, while capable, is currently more suited to a rotational and spot-starting role rather than a full-time starter. He serves as a stopgap until Lukas Van Ness is prepared to assume a larger role within the defense. The Packers will be eagerly awaiting Gary’s recovery and the emergence of Van Ness to solidify their outside linebacker corps.

Cornerbacks: Jaire Alexander, Rasul Douglas, Eric Stokes, Keisean Nixon

Although this unit returns the top four from last season, it’s a different situation than in 2022. If we rewind to last year’s training camp, Alexander and Stokes were the starters on the outside and Douglas was in the slot. This time around, Alexander and Douglas are on the outside, with Nixon holding the edge in the slot. Stokes, who is still recovering from an injury, has to prove he’s deserving of playing time with the starters.

Specialists: Pat O’Donnell

The math here is simple: Pat O’Donnell is the only punter on the team with NFL experience. Yes, Daniel Whelan is in camp, but O’Donnell’s combined skills as a punter and holder are too valuable for Green Bay to look elsewhere at this point.