Packers' ascending star gets major praise that will excite fans about the future
It's hard to find top level offensive linemen, especially late in the draft. But this is what the Green Bay Packers have done consistently under general manager Brian Gutekunst. After three seasons, it's fair to say that fourth-round pick right tackle Zach Tom has established himself as a positive starter, and is ascending to an […]
It's hard to find top level offensive linemen, especially late in the draft. But this is what the Green Bay Packers have done consistently under general manager Brian Gutekunst. After three seasons, it's fair to say that fourth-round pick right tackle Zach Tom has established himself as a positive starter, and is ascending to an elite level.
Tom has been so good that he receives recognition from his peers. Houston Texans edge rusher Will Anderson was asked by ESPN's Kevin Clark who was the best offensive lineman he's faced in the NFL. And Tom was his choice.
"Number 50, (Zach) Tom from Green Bay. He is legit," Anderson said. "He is like a quick setter, he punches really quick, and he has a really good step off the ball, like, kick off the ball. He's good, he's more on the leaner side, quick feet, explosive hands, can get back really well. I would say he's up there."
Development
A former fourth-round pick, Tom was mostly a backup in his rookie season. However, he played snaps at left tackle, left guard, right guard, and right tackle right away. Established as a full-time right tackle over the last two years, Tom has been the best piece of the strong Packers' offensive line.
In 2024, according to PFF, Zach Tom had his best performances both in pass block and in run block—the latter is particularly impressive considering he is an undersized tackle.
Initially, the Packers drafted him to be a center. But his performance at tackle is so good and valuable that the plans have changed. This past season, Tom allowed 24 pressures and three sacks.
After three NFL seasons, Zach Tom is now eligible to sign a contract extension as he’s entering the final year of his rookie deal. And if the Packers decide to make it happen as early as possible, it won’t surprise anyone. Based on his track in the league, his price will probably just go up over the next few seasons.
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