4 days ago
Forbes Sep 17, 2026

How The Packers’ Offensive Line Has Gone From Elite To Inferior

The Green Bay Packers’ offensive line has seen a steep decline from 2023 to 2026, severely impacting quarterback Jordan Love’s protection. In their 2026 season opener against Minnesota, Love was sacked four times and hit 15 times, underscoring urgent vulnerabilities. This drop-off came despite the unit’s history of being a top-tier line that protected legends like Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers. The group now ranks near the bottom of the league, with only right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele, who is battling injuries, remaining from the starters of three years ago.

Several strategic missteps contributed to this collapse. The Packers undervalued and subsequently lost key linemen Josh Myers and Jon Runyan in free agency. They also poured $77 million into Aaron Banks in 2025, a free agent plagued by injuries and uneven play. The switch of Pro Bowler Elgton Jenkins from guard to center before his 2025 fibula injury was another flawed move that weakened the line. Additionally, recent draft picks Jordan Morgan and Anthony Belton have yet to make a consistent positive impact.

Analyzing position-by-position, the left tackle spot went from David Bakhtiari, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, to Jordan Morgan, who struggled heavily in the first game of 2026. At left guard, poor health and performance from Banks forced undrafted Donovan Jennings into a starting role, where he ranked near the bottom among NFL guards. The center position saw Josh Myers depart, replaced first by Jenkins and then Sean Rhyan, who has shown promise but remains less effective than his predecessor. Right guard, once anchored by Runyan, has been a rotating carousel, with Jacob Monk failing to establish stability.

While Bako-Bewele remains under contract after a standout 2023 and 2024, his 2025 injuries have hampered his ability to return to peak form. Offensive line coach Adam Stenavich emphasizes accountability, underscoring that every player must be ready to perform. Love stays optimistic but acknowledges that improved communication and cohesion are essential to reversing this downward trend. The Packers face a critical challenge as they attempt to rebuild their once-dominant offensive line and restore protection for their young franchise quarterback.

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