The Green Bay Packers enter the 2024 season with a novel wave of rookies ready to step up and make their presence known. With key departures and opportunities on the roster, this year’s rookie class will be crucial to the Packers’ success.
Here are the top five rookies who could have the biggest impact on the pitch this season:
1. Jordan Morgan (OT, Arizona)
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Yes, of course, you expect your first-round pick to be the most impactful rookie, but Morgan makes sense considering he’ll get the most playing time out of all the draft picks. Morgan will play a large role on the offensive line and will likely slot into the right guard spot if the Packers decide to trade their top five offensive linemen (Rasheed Walker – Elgton Jenkins – Josh Myers – Jordan Morgan – Zach Tom). The transition from quarterback to linebacker isn’t uncommon, but Morgan’s ability to quickly adapt to the NFL will be key, as his performance in both pass protection and the run game will be crucial to the Packers’ offense’s success.
2. Javon Bullard (S, Georgia)
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Bullard is another player who could make an immediate impact for the Packers. The former Georgia Bulldogs player is known for his physical play, ability to handle a wide range of responsibilities and play multiple positions. Head coach Matt LaFleur noted that Bullard does “many great things” in the preseason game against the Cleveland Browns and the hope is that he will see the majority of the action in the starting lineup. With Xavier McKinney in the lineup, the potential of this safety duo could be the catalyst to transform the Packers defense into one of the most fearsome in the league after being a huge reliable presence last season.
3. Edgerrin Cooper (middle linebacker, Texas A&M)
Green Bay Packers guard Edgerrin Cooper practices during rookie training camp Friday at the Don Hutson Center.
One unit that fans should be excited about is the linebackers. Quay Walker has shown potential in his first two seasons in the NFL and continues to play a significant role. Now, the Packers have acquired a linebacker in the second round with Cooper, and the two form a quick and athletic duo. Cooper could become a key defensive player from the get-go with his ability to thrive in both run support and pass coverage. His combination of speed and instincts could turn the Packers linebacker corps into one of the most formidable units in the league. Cooper has the potential to solidify the linebacker position and become a central part of the Packers’ defensive schemes with Walker.
4. MarShawn Lloyd (RB, USC)
Green Bay Packers player MarShawn Lloyd (32) plays during organized team activities on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Unlike the first two options, Lloyd may not see much playing time or have an immediate impact. He’s arguably one of the best running backs in this year’s draft, Lloyd is known for his explosiveness and ability to create large plays as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield. As he transitions to the NFL, Lloyd will likely rotate with novel Packers running back Josh Jacobs, but he’ll be a tight end for AJ Dillon, whose role in the offense could be in question just before the season begins. However, if Lloyd can quickly adapt to the speed and physicality of the NFL, he could emerge as a key playmaker later in the season, providing a lively element to the Packers’ offense and providing a one-two punch with Jacobs.
5. Evan Williams (South, Oregon)
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The Packers loaded up on safety in the draft, and Williams looks like a player not to be taken lightly. Coming into the draft, Williams was already known for his physical style and understanding of the game. But he’s shown so much more. Williams made an impact in his first preseason game and continues to impress when he’s on the field. One thing that stands out that Packers fans haven’t seen from a safety in a while is his attacking.
31 seconds since rookie Evan Williams became one of the Packers’ best players. photo:twitter.com/PcANuAV49Q
— CarrierDairy (@CarrierDoor) August 11, 2024
Williams’ ability to attack was highlighted in their preseason game against the Browns, including a forced fumble. It may be complex to get the starting nod with McKinney and Bullard in the lineup, but if Williams continues to play, the Packers may have to find a role for him.
The Packers’ 2024 rookie class is loaded with potential, and these five players are ready to make an impact right away. From strengthening the offensive line to bolstering the defense, these rookies will play key roles as the Packers head toward a successful season.
