Logo

Packers Offensive Line Leader Elgton Jenkins Praises Two Rookies for Making the Unit More Complete: “They Are the Future of the Packers”

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Ahead of the new game week, Elgton Jenkins spoke about his leadership role on the Green Bay Packers’ offensive line—both a responsibility and a privilege. He said that, alongside the veterans in the room, the goal is to “pull” the younger players up to the standard every day and turn each practice into real progress.

Jenkins reserved special praise for two rookie offensive linemen: Anthony Belton (OT, Round 2, No. 54) and John Williams (OL, Round 7, No. 250). Belton has the profile of a modern edge tackle, while Williams is a flexible piece who can play tackle/guard depending on the package—very much in line with the Packers’ philosophy of building dependable depth.

In pass protection, Jenkins emphasized that Belton keeps his shoulders square, stays calm versus blitz looks, and shows enough anchor when defenders try to long-arm him on the edge; Williams communicates well through twists/stunts, executes clean pass-offs in the pocket, and helps keep Jordan Love a stable platform. In the run game, both rookies expand the toolbox—from inside/outside zone that demand quick reach and firm combos to gap/power concepts that require precise second-level fits.

“They are the future of the Packers — these two young guys bring the energy, discipline, and standard an offensive line needs to dominate. My job is to keep them on track so we get better every week.”Elgton Jenkins said.

Jenkins acknowledged that a dense schedule and “multiple” defensive fronts are forcing the O-line to mature quickly in high-leverage moments: third-and-long, two-minute drills, and slide/half-slide protections against pressure from multiple sources. “Once the young guys start to ‘catch the rhythm,’ the whole unit pops at the same time,” he said.

Expert view: From a technical standpoint, Belton fits vertical/45 sets on the edge, is improving his anchor versus bull rushes, and is increasingly confident holding the corner without constant chip help; Williams brings the frame, tight hand usage, and low pad level, plus reliable MIKE-point ID and clean climbs to the second level—traits that set him up for early swing duties (tackle/guard). Within the Packers’ developmental framework—where disciplined footwork and communication are priorities—this duo has a clear pathway to grow from late-day draft picks into meaningful contributors.

Comments (0)

Loading comments...

Former Packers 1,400-Yard Back Released — Begs for One More Shot in Green Bay
Minneapolis, MN NFL rosters are always in flux when training camp approaches, but few moves make fans look twice like the latest headline out of Minneapolis. A name Green Bay knows by heart suddenly hit the open market—and almost instantly, calls for a reunion rippled through Titletown. The report slipped out quietly: a veteran running back was released after a grind-it-out year in a new uniform. A journey once defined by winter-tough finishes and a bond with the Lambeau faithful just took another sharp turn. Only a few seasons ago, he was the heartbeat of Matt LaFleur’s offense in the biggest moments. Aaron Jones—the spark plug of so many December drives—brought burst, balance, and a blue-collar relentlessness that felt unmistakably “Green Bay.” In 2019 and 2020, he stacked back-to-back 1,400+ scrimmage-yard seasons, piling up touchdowns and carving out a place in Packers lore. “Green Bay will always be home. I gave everything for this city, and I’d do it again. Give me the chance to finish what I started,” Jones wrote—his message racing across social media and stirring the hearts of Packers fans. Drafted by Green Bay in 2017, Jones grew into a cornerstone under LaFleur, then departed in free agency to chase a bigger role. But at his most recent stop, nagging injuries and a crowded rotation kept him from finding the same rhythm. Now, after eight uneven games up north, he’s waiting on a fresh start—or better yet, the perfect ending back where he became a star. The Packers’ depth chart has playmakers and a new lead back in place, but plenty of analysts and fans are asking the same question: could a reunion be the timely piece for those grueling, late-season yards? The answer likely comes down to roster needs, the right price, and a front office willing to bet on the heart of a player who knows Lambeau in his bones. For Jones, the dream is simple: one more chance to run with the Packers—and to finish the story on Lombardi Avenue the way he always imagined.