Packers starter receives wake-up call during training camp practice
Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Zach Tom is a true wildcard when it comes to where he fits in on the offensive line. The second-year player had a very successful rookie season playing multiple positions and the Packers love to cross-train the OL so when the eventual injuries hit, the team is in the best […]
Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Zach Tom is a true wildcard when it comes to where he fits in on the offensive line.
The second-year player had a very successful rookie season playing multiple positions and the Packers love to cross-train the OL so when the eventual injuries hit, the team is in the best shape it can be in to help offset potential problems.
Tom has mostly been battling it out with Yosh Nijman for the starting right tackle job, but Matt LaFleur and co. had him working with the 1s at center on Tuesday. And, it's pretty ironic how the development came to be after the Packers head coach literally just spoke about wanting to get the best five players on the field.
"I think you always want to get your best out there and work on that continuity," LaFleur told reporters Tuesday. "You always plan for the worst, but you're going to have to adjust. That's what this game is all about. Whomever makes the quickest, most efficient adjustments [it] usually ends up in their favor."
The key with Tom at first-team center is that Nijman is a very capable player at right tackle. The Packers have seen enough from him and they know he can provide quality snaps on a consistent basis.
Therefore, all eyes move to incumbent starter, Josh Myers, and Tom at the center position.
It's clear the Packers are seeing how Tom handles center. The team doesn't have a better option at right tackle than Nijman, so if Tom can prove that he's a better option than Myers then he'd represent part of the best five on the field. This goes all the way back to OTAs and minicamp, where Tom took snaps at center with the 3s at certain points. The Packers have a plan for him, it's just about figuring out where he fits in best.
It's clear the Packers like Tom and he's primed for a very big year. This competition should light a fire under Myers, as well, which will only help down the line.
Packers rookie is already doing things he rarely did in college
It’s certainly an encouraging sign for the youngster trying to make the Packers final roster.
Featured image via Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
