The Green Bay Packers will go from 80 players on the roster to just 53 by 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. GM Brian Gutekunst has 27 cuts to make over the next few hours.
Here’s a couple of things to watch today as the Packers reduce their roster to 53 players:
– Dexter Williams is a talented young running back with some explosive, one-cut ability and big potential in the Matt LaFleur offense. But he’s stuck in a deep position group and might not have a spot. If the Packers truly want to use Tyler Ervin as a receiver, maybe Williams makes it as the fourth running back behind Aaron Jones, Jamaal Williams and A.J. Dillon. He could easily be one of the top 53 players.
– Can John Lovett sneak onto the roster as the fifth tight end? LaFleur loves this type of player. He’s versatile, athletic and smart. He’s also a little redundant with rookie Josiah Deguara, and maybe the Packers think they can get him onto the practice squad. I wouldn’t be surprised if LaFleur really pushes to get him on the 53.
– How many receivers? This offense might only need five, especially if Tyler Ervin can play a gadget/slot role. The Packers are already cutting Jake Kumerow, so this position could get a makeover at the bottom of the depth chart. We’ll see. An outside addition is possible. The sixth and seventh receiver might end up on the practice squad.
– The bottom of the offensive line depth chart will be fascinating. There is at least one roster spot to be won at tackle and on the interior. Do the Packers keep 10 offensive linemen? It’s possible.
– What will Gutekunst do about the defensive line room? The top four are locks, but will he only keep four? Don’t rule it out. Montravius Adams and Treyvon Hester are both hurt. Maybe Gutekunst can sift through the rubble and find a capable veteran after cuts.
– The outside linebacker group is deep and appears to have five or more players capable of making the roster. If the Packers go light along the defensive line, Gutekunst could, theoretically, keep more on the edge. Five or even six are possible here. Giving position coach Mike Smith more toys is attractive.
– Ka’dar Hollman or Stanford Samuels? This looks like one of the top position battles. Hollman was a draft pick last year and has a year of experience under his belt, but Samuels, a top undrafted free agent, had a good summer. The Packers aren’t afraid to keep six corners, so both could make it.
– Will the Packers make a trade to fortify a position? It’s going to be tough this year, but teams often make trades to keep a player they want off waivers. Also, don’t be surprised if Gutekunst ships off a player he doesn’t want. He’s done that each of the last two cutdown days, getting draft capital in return for a player he was about to cut.
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