Key Takeaways:
– Green Bay Packers placed high expectations on rookie offensive lineman, Jordan Morgan.
– Gilberto Manzano from SI.com lists Morgan amongst his top five NFC rookies who might flop.
– Despite skepticism, Morgan exhibits versatility playing multiple positions in the offensive line, lending promise to his NFL career.
Rookie Jordan Morgan’s NFL Future: A Toss-Up
Recently, the Green Bay Packers have shown a leap of faith on their first-round rookie, offensive lineman Jordan Morgan. Nonetheless, the horizon is clouded with concerns regarding Morgan’s performance in the National Football League. A renowned sports analyst, Gilberto Manzano from SI.com, did not abstain from expressing skepticism by featuring Morgan in his list of top five potential NFC rookie busts.
Manzano wrote: “…I can’t help but wonder whether the Packers selected the right offensive lineman. It’s difficult to knock the pick, but maybe the Packers passed on a prospect with more upside at tackle.” Questions regarding the Packers’ decision to pick Morgan in the first round of the draft seem to overshadow rookie’s potential. Others joining him on the list are Malik Nabers, Jayden Daniels, and Minnesota Vikings quarterback, J.J. McCarthy.
Morgan’s Position under the Packers Flag
One concerning factor for Morgan’s prospects is his position on the team. Known for shifting their players among different offensive line positions, the Packers are yet to confirm Morgan’s spot. The rookie impressively handled the left tackle position throughout college, earning him All-Pac-12 honors in 2023. However, his physical attributes, such as his sub-33-inch arm length, present a less-than-ideal fit for this role at the NFL level.
During the offseason, the Packers had Morgan try every position except center, reflecting their uncertainty. During a mandatory minicamp, Head Coach Matt LaFleur shared his thoughts on Morgan’s acclimation to the NFL level, stating: “Certainly, he has a long way to go in terms of just mentally. Physically, he has all the tools that you look for. We’re going to keep pushing him.”
Nevertheless, the clock is ticking for the Packers to decide where Morgan will ultimately play. Crucial will be Morgan’s ability to crack the top five line-up on the field.
Alternatives to Morgan in the Draft: Did Packers Make the Right Decision?
The fact that Green Bay Packers might have selected a different lineman in the first round fuels doubts about Morgan’s success. A few alternatives could have been considered at the time of the 25th overall pick. Yet, Morgan’s versatility makes him a preferred choice over other rookies.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Graham Barton one pick after Morgan. Despite his left tackle experience at Duke, the Buccaneers declared him as a center. That shift could have deterred the Packers, who possibly preferred a tackle like Morgan.
Dallas Cowboys’ pick Tyler Guyton also merits consideration. The 6’7″, 322-pound tackle from Oklahoma displays immense potential. Yet, his size restricts his positions on the field.
In contrast, the unique flexibility of Morgan to play various positions tops his value, making him a more attractive prospect. The Packers seem to have placed their faith in Morgan’s ability to contribute in multiple ways, which could well pan out in the long run.
Irrespective of the concerns raised, Jordan Morgan carries a promising potential, presenting an interesting wait-and-see scenario for his performance in the upcoming NFL season with the Green Bay Packers. The deciding factor is and always will be, the game played on the field.