The Green Bay Packers entered the 2024 NFL Draft believing that first-round draft pick Jordan Morgan could play four positions on the offensive line, and Morgan has already earned reps at at least three spots in the first two weeks of organized practice teamwork.
During rookie minicamp, Morgan played primarily on the left wing. During last week’s open OTA practice, Morgan had reps at both left and right tackle, likely as a result of starter Zach Tom’s injury. Wednesday, Morgana he slipped into left guard during team drills to replace starter Elgton Jenkins, who had a previously scheduled absence.
Like many players on the offensive line, the Packers are training Morgan in multiple positions. He’ll get a chance to compete with returning starter Rasheed Walker on the left wing, but Morgan will also get reps on the right wing with Tom sidelined, and could eventually factor into the competition on the right wing, which is the spot left vacant by Jon Runyan Jr.’s departure. Free Agency.
Many draft evaluators viewed Morgan as a viable defensive prospect, even though he played almost all of his collegiate snaps on the left wing. While Morgan is powerful and athletic, he lacks the height that offensive tackles typically produce against monstrous rushers in the NFL. Moving inside could be one way for the Packers to maximize Morgan’s strengths and limit his weaknesses.
Above all, learning multiple positions early in his rookie season will give Morgan the chance to contribute early on. Injuries on offense are common, which is a major reason why the Packers prefer offensive linemen who can play more than one position.
Wouldn’t it be better if Morgan could settle into one position as a freshman? Bright. However, if he is physically and mentally fit, and the Packers clearly believe he is, learning multiple positions is the path of least resistance for Morgan when it comes to getting on the field as a rookie.
