The competition to start working on the left and right guard along the Green Bay Packers offensive line has become a three-player race.
Packers coach Matt LaFleur pointed to Lucas Patrick, Royce Newman and Jon Runyan as the top three candidates to start in the two guard positions to open the 2021 season.
“It really comes down to the interior, to the two points of protection. Whatever the combination of Lucas Patrick, Royce Newman and Jon Runyan. I would say that these are the candidates most likely to occupy these two positions, ”LaFleur said on Thursday.
The Packers expect Pro Bowl guard Elgton Jenkins to start on the left, while David Bakhtiari continues to recover from ACL surgery, opening another starting point for the guard. Last season, Jenkins and Patrick took care of most of the accessories on the left and right guard.
Patrick, Newman and Runyan have been interchangeable on guard throughout the camp. The Packers have also mixed in Ben Braden, but LaFleur did not mention him on Thursday.
The next step in the battle: Saturday’s preseason final against the Buffalo Bills.
“It’s a complete competition,” LaFleur said. “There have been moments of very good initial play, and there have been moments of incongruity. We are looking for guys to go out there and constantly execute, not only their task, but also with the right technique. Ultimately, this will lead to more long-term success “.
Patrick played more than 900 guard snapshots last season and can play all three indoor places. Runyan, a rookie in 2020, played more than 150 snapshots at the two guard posts as a backup. He is also training at the center.
It is increasingly possible for the beginner to win an initial job.
Newman, selected in the fourth round, has positioned himself as a legitimate candidate to start after excelling in both preseason games. He started against the New York Jets and could start again on Saturday against the Bills.
“Royce has done an outstanding job. No doubt you can see the talent. We just have to make sure that it continues to progress every day, ”said LaFleur.
LaFleur said he wants Newman to continue learning the “nuances” of offense and playing the position so he can play quickly and without hesitation.
The Packers open the 2021 season against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, September 12th.