The Green Bay Packers have a clear type when it comes to building their offensive line. While they famously target college tackles to develop, their approach to the interior is just as specific. As the NFL Draft approaches, let's examine the key traits they value and identify 13 prospects who fit their proven benchmarks for experience and versatility.
Since 2017, the Packers have drafted only six primary interior linemen, preferring to convert college tackles. However, a clear pattern emerges: they almost never select "guard-only" players. Instead, they target athletes who offer swing versatility—either at tackle/guard or center/guard—providing crucial depth and flexibility for the grueling NFL season.
Experience is non-negotiable. On average, the interior linemen Green Bay has drafted played a hefty 2,568 college snaps. Even the "low" mark, Josh Myers, logged 1,511 snaps starting at center for Ohio State, a premier program. This emphasis on proven, high-volume play is a cornerstone of their evaluation process.
The prototype for this philosophy is Elgton Jenkins. In college, he wasn't just a center; he was a complete offensive line, taking significant snaps at left tackle, left guard, and right tackle. This multi-position background prepared him to become the All-Pro, do-it-all lineman he is today. Similarly, recent pick Jacob Monk brings experience at right guard, right tackle, and center.
So, who fits the mold this year? Based on the Packers' historical preferences for high snap counts and positional flexibility, here are 13 interior prospects who check the boxes. These players have the extensive college resumes and the ability to play multiple spots that Green Bay's front office consistently seeks to fortify their trenches.