The Green Bay Packers threw almost everything at first-round draft pick Jordan Morgan during their offseason training program. The collegiate left guard received reps at four different positions – left guard, left guard, right guard and right guard – in the latest example of the team’s ongoing efforts to cross-train the offensive line.
The Packers know Morgan has a lot to learn as a freshman, learning to play offense and defense on both sides of the line, but they will continue to put pressure on him mentally.
“He has a long way to go, mentality-wise,” coach Matt LaFleur said. “Physically he has all the tools you look for, so we will continue to push him and he needs to understand that… I think he is approaching it the right way and we will continue to push him.”
It’s unclear where Morgan will best fit in training camp. LaFleur said the Packers will have a better idea of how to position individual linemen once camp gets underway and the team can start playing with its top five starters.
Zach Tom, the expected starter at right tackle, missed most of the offseason training program with a torn pectoral muscle, which opened the door to reps for both Morgan and veteran Andre Dillard. Morgan also competes with Rasheed Walker on the left wing, while nothing is certain on the right wing, where Sean Rhyan has been the main option in the first-team attack.
The Packers want offensive linemen to know multiple positions to provide built-in injury protection. Tomek, for example, can play in all five positions. The same can be said for veteran Elgton Jenkins. Morgan has a lot to learn mentally as a first-year player, but he looks like another multi-positional piece of the puzzle for LaFleur, Adam Stenavich and Luke Butkus on the offensive line.
Now Morgan and the rest of the Packers will get a five-week break before camp. One of the most essential stories related to the start of training camp with training on July 22: Where will Morgan mainly play and will he be able to crack the top five?
