Green Bay Packers: Running back logjam will help group mature
By Hunter Noll
The Green Bay Packers running backs are extremely young heading into 2017, but their inexperience while working together could help them mature faster
Ty Montgomery heads into the 2017 NFL season as the Green Bay Packers starting, and most experienced, running back. With just two years under his belt, the Packers youth at the position is clearly highlighted. Behind Montgomery stand five rookies. Aaron Jones, Devante Mays, Kalif Phillips, William Stanback, and Jamaal Williams are the five roster hopefuls.
Philips and Stanback are both undrafted free agents, while the other three were selected in the draft this year. Due to all five being standouts in college, fighting for a roster spot may seem a little out-of-place to them. This is good news for the Packers though, as it will lead to some quick maturity.
All five players have their strengths and weaknesses. Some are more elusive, while others can run through a brick wall.
More from NFL Spin Zone
- Dallas Cowboys made the trade everyone else should have made
- Pittsburgh Steelers rookie sleeper everyone should be talking about
- Anthony Richardson putting jaw-dropping talent on display immediately
- Denver Broncos’ stud wide receiver might be out for a while
- Washington Commanders: Three takeaways from win over Ravens
Although a complement of different skills is nice to have in the backfield, the Packers shouldn’t be making their decisions based off this. With Montgomery already available as a great pass catcher, there’s no need to worry too much about a specialty back. That leaves their options wide open.
Due to this, the running backs will benefit greatly from becoming well-rounded. If one of them can do everything, it will be hard for the Packers to not keep them on the roster.
The healthy competition will lead to three things. First, the players will improve their all-around game, giving the Packers even better options for the final slots. Second, it will give the Packers a solid look at work-ethic. Such a large and open competition will show them who truly cares. Finally, the players will mature during this time thanks to their newfound roles of having to prove themselves at such a high level.
Next: 5 NFL rookies poised to shine in 2017
Every rookie comes into camp needing to showcase their skills. Even the first pick in the draft is almost never promised anything. There aren’t many times when five rookies are all competing against each other in such a manner though. The Packers have a unique situation at running back, and it will only help them get better.