Packers right tackle Zach Tom was named a first-team All-Pro at right tackle by Pro Football Focus in 2024.
Green Bay Packers right tackle Zach Tom was named a first-team All-Pro at right tackle by Pro Football Focus for the 2024 season.
Tom, who earned an elite run-blocking grade and gave up only 24 total pressures, beat out other worthy candidates such as Lane Johnson of the Philadelphia Eagles and Penei Sewell of the Detroit Lions for the first-team honor from PFF.
Among offensive tackles, Tom ranked third in run-blocking grade (90.0), 11th in pass-blocking grade (82.1) and fourth in overall grade.
Tom gave up three sacks on 562 pass-blocking snaps and was penalized seven times. He held down the right side in front of Josh Jacobs, who rushed for 1,329 yards and 15 touchdowns while powering one of the NFL’s most productive run games in 2024.
Tom, a fourth-round pick out of Wake Forest, has started at right tackle each of the last two seasons for the Packers. He will enter the final year of his rookie deal in 2025, so a lucrative contract extension is something the Packers will have to strongly consider this offseason.
While PFF noted Tom’s excellent season, the Pro Bowl did not. Tom was not even voted an alternate for the Pro Bowl.
Safety Xavier McKinney was a second-team All-Pro at PFF. He finished behind Kerby Joseph of the Lions and Kyle Hamilton of the Baltimore Ravens.
Packers right tackle Zach Tom has been one of the best blockers in the NFL in 2024, but he wasn’t even one of the top alternates for the Pro Bowl. Snub!
The Green Bay Packers’ biggest Pro Bowl snub in 2024 wasn’t even named an alternate for the Pro Bowl roster.
Right tackle Zach Tom — now a quietly dominant player in Year 3 — was snubbed by the entire process.
Through 17 weeks, Tom ranks as the fifth-highest graded offensive tackle in football by Pro Football Focus. He’s allowed only 17 pressures on 530 pass-blocking snaps, and he’s the third-highest graded run blocker among offensive tackles.
Not making the initial roster is understandable given the talent and name power in the NFC at offensive tackle. Lane Johnson of the Philadelphia Eagles, Tristan Wirfs of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Penei Sewell of the Detroit Lions are all individually dominant players who deserved the recognition.
But Tom isn’t even an alternate? That’s hard to square with the quality of his performance dating back to even last season.
The Pro Bowl voting process includes fan voting, player voting and coach voting. Tom was the No. 10 offensive tackle after final fan voting, so they did their part. Clearly, Tom doesn’t have the same recognition value among players and coaches, an odd reality for a player who really should be well-known as a good one in buildings across the league.
Another potential snub might be tight end Tucker Kraft, although George Kittle and Trey McBride were both warranted picks at tight end in the NFC.
The Packers’ three Pro Bowlers are running back Josh Jacobs, edge rusher Rashan Gary and safety Xavier McKinney. Jacobs and McKinney were slam dunk picks, but it’s tough to make the case for Gary as one of the NFC’s top three defensive ends.
The Tennessee Titans could use some help along their offensive line, so this player would be an easy theft from the Green Bay Packers.
The Tennessee Titans will try to break into the win column when they take on the Green Bay Packers this Sunday.
That, of course, provides those of us here at Titans Wire the opportunity to hypothetically steal from the Packers’ roster in search of depth and/or talent upgrades.
In looking over the Packers’ roster, there are plenty of options available. However, one player stands far above the rest: right tackle Zach Tom.
After watching the Titans’ first two weeks, it’s clear they have a defense in place to be a contender. Unfortunately, quarterback Will Levis is consistently under pressure and making terrible decisions. Some of this is on him but his offensive line, especially the right side, has not performed very well.
With Tom, the Titans would add a tremendous right tackle and solidify a unit that has been called out by head coach Brian Callahan. The 2022 fourth-round draft pick is versatile but has shown above-average skills as a right tackle.
In 2023, his first as a full-time right tackle, Tom graded out as the 18th-ranked tackle by PFF.
Tom would be a huge upgrade over starter Nicholas Petit-Frere, who has struggled on the right side.
What are your thoughts, Titans fans? Would you pick Zach Tom or steal an entirely different player from the Green Bay Packers?
Green Bay Packers right tackle Zach Tom was one of the NFL’s most dominant offensive linemen during Week 1 of the 2024 season.
Green Bay Packers right tackle Zach Tom was one of the NFL’s most dominant offensive linemen during Week 1 of the 2024 season.
Per Pro Football Focus, Tom’s overall grade of 92.0 ranked third among all offensive linemen during the NFL’s opening week. He allowed zero pressures over 43 pass-blocking snaps and earned the second-highest run-blocking grade among all NFL offensive linemen in Week 1.
Tom was terrific against an elite defensive line for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Per Next Gen Stats, Tom didn’t allow a pressure across 10 one-on-one pass-blocking opportunities vs. Bryce Huff, who led the NFL in pressure rate last season.
PFF tracks “true pass sets,” which eliminates screens, play-action passes and other plays that directly affect pass-blocking. On true passing sets, Tom was a perfect 14-for-14 not allowing pressure.
ESPN tracks blocking win rates. Tom won 18 of his 20 run-blocking snaps, a win rate of 90 percent, which ranked fourth among offensive tackles.
Tom didn’t participate during most of the offseason workout program after injuring his pectoral muscle. He wasn’t even able to participate during 11-on-11 periods until deep into training camp, but the third-year lineman didn’t miss a beat upon his return. In fact, he picked up right where he left off.
Last season, Tom allowed the lowest pressure rate among right tackle, per Next Gen Stats. He was a breakout player as one of the NFL’s best (and underappreciated) right tackles.
His 2024 season is off to a tremendous start. Tom’s next challenge will be 2021 first-round pick Kwity Paye, who had three pressures for the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1.
As the Green Bay Packers start their 2024 season, much of the attention will naturally focus on established stars and key rookies. However, several under-the-radar players on the Packers’ roster have the potential to break out and play significant roles this season. These players could make crucial contributions to Green Bay’s success.
Here are five Packers players who could break out in 2024:
1. Zach Tom (OL)
(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Zach Tom did play in all 17 games last season for the Packers, so he has established a significant role on the offensive line. However, his steady performance and adaptability makes him a prime candidate for a breakout season and could get some recognition around the league. Throughout his football career, Tom quickly proved his worth with his ability to play multiple positions, including center, guard, and tackle. This year will be interesting to watch as the Packers could leave him at right tackle or have him move to center or guard if injuries or poor performances from other players show up. Regardless, Tom played a solid role on the offensive line last season and will look to get recognition as one of the better offensive lineman throughout the league.
2. Dontayvion Wicks (WR)
Wm. Glasheen-USA TODAY Sports
It’s hard to find someone who isn’t excited about Dontayvion Wicks. The fifth-round pick out of Virginia made his mark in his rookie season by ranking third on the team with 39 receptions for 581 yards and four touchdowns but his ability to stretch the field, get separation, and make big plays are reasons why everyone is excited about Wicks. The Packers have a deep wide receiver core with Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed and Wicks, so it’s hard to label who’s the No. 1 option. However, if Wicks takes that extra step everyone is expecting to see, then maybe he might be the lead option among the wide receiver group.
3. Lukas Van Ness (DE)
Green Bay Packers linebacker Lukas Van Ness (90) reacts against the Dallas Cowboys during the fourth quarter of their wild card playoff game Sunday, January 14, 2024 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Green Bay defeated Dallas 48-32.
It was a quiet rookie season for Lukas Van Ness but there were flashes of his potential that made him a first-round pick in last year’s draft. With more experience under his belt, Van Ness could become a regular contributor in the Packers’ pass rush rotation, and we have seen him play a big role throughout preseason and make big plays. His size, speed, and power make him a dangerous weapon off the edge, and if he can continue to refine his technique, he could become a disruptive force in the backfield and a valuable piece in the rotation with Rashan Gary and Preston Smith.
4. Karl Brooks (DL)
(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Despite being a sixth-round draft pick last year, Karl Brooks showed flashes of potential with 20 tackles and four sacks. Brooks might not be able to crack the starting lineup but his combination of power and quickness makes him a valuable rotational piece on the defensive line. The defensive line room is crowded but with the new 4-3 scheme, it should keep players fresh in their rotation. This will help Brooks stay on the field, and given his ability to play multiple positions, this gives Brooks the ability to play in many upfront packages.
5. TJ Slaton (DL)
Green Bay Packers defensive tackle T.J. Slaton (93) stops San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) during the first quarter of their NFC divisional playoff game Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Levi’ Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Staying in the defensive line, TJ Slaton could be in for a big season. Slaton has seen steady improvements since he entered the league in 2021 and is entering the final year on his rookie deal. In 2023, Slaton record career-highs with 50 tackles and 626 snaps played. In a room with Kenny Clark, Devonte Wyatt, and Karl Brooks, Slaton should still have a significant role, especially as one of the better run stoppers on the team. If Slaton improves upon a solid 2023 season, the former Florida Gator will be looking to cash in this offseason on a new contract.
While the Packers have their established stars and top rookies garnering most of the attention this offense, these under-the-radar players have the potential to make a significant impact in 2024. Whether through expanded roles, increased opportunities, or simply taking the next step in their development, Zach Tom, Dontayvion Wicks, Lukas Van Ness, Karl Brooks, and TJ Slaton are all players who could surprise fans and become key contributors as the Packers look to make a run in the upcoming season.
Packers OL Zach Tom is still working his way back from a pec injury and won’t do 11-on-11 until after Family Night.
Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Zach Tom has been limited to start training camp and won’t return to 11-on-11 team drills until after the annual “Family Night” practice on Saturday, Aug. 3.
Tom, a 17-game starter at right tackle last season, tore his pectoral muscle during the offseason and is still working his way back.
“It’s going to be a while yet before we put him in those team situations,” LaFleur said Friday. “I would expect, if everything goes right, it won’t be until after Family Night.”
Rebuilding upper body strength and stamina are likely hurdles for Tom as he recovers.
Without Tom for 11-on-11 work, the Packers have experimented with veteran Andre Dillard, first-round pick Jordan Morgan and 2023 undrafted free agent Kadeem Telfort at right tackle. On Wednesday, Telfort replaced Dillard with the first-team offense. LaFleur said the Packers will keeping “shuffling” players in and out at right tackle.
“He’s done some nice things,” LaFleur said of Telfort.
While others compete for reps, the goal for the Packers will be getting Tom physically ready to go for Week 1.
Also along the offensive line, center Josh Myers is missing Friday’s practice due to a personal matter.
Like Tom, tight end Tucker Kraft is still recovering from a pectoral injury suffered this offseason. Kraft remains on the PUP list as of Friday.
The Packers will continue to cross-train first-round pick Jordan Morgan during training camp.
The Green Bay Packers have a rich history of developing offensive linemen and having them play multiple positions. Zach Tom and Elgton Jenkins are current examples of the value of cross-training, with both players having the versatility to play all five positions across the offensive line.
Jordan Morgan is the next in line to get cross-trained. The 25th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft finished his collegiate career at Arizona with 37 starts at left tackle and during OTAs and rookie camp Morgan played both tackle spots and left guard. That movement will likely continue throughout training camp.
“Obviously, you’d like a home for him,” Matt LaFleur said during his Monday press conference. “We’ve seen the value in cross-training these guys. It happens every year where you have to move guys in order to get the top five out there. He’s certainly capable of doing whatever we ask him to do.”
Where Morgan ends up could ultimately come down to where the versatile duo of Tom and Jenkins start to kick off the season.
On day one of training camp Jenkins was starting at center. That move could open the door for Morgan to slide into the left guard spot, a position he took reps at during OTAs.
If Tom ends up taking over at center, it could mean Morgan is the team’s starting right tackle when they head to Brazil.
On day one of camp, the Arizona product saw reps at right guard. If Jenkins stays at left guard and Tom sticks at right tackle, Morgan will battle Sean Rhyan for the starting right guard spot. The journey is just getting started and the offensive line shuffle will be something to monitor closely throughout camp.
Morgan is the first offensive lineman that the Packers selected in the first round of the draft since they took Derek Sherrod in the 2011 draft. With all the moving parts, Morgan could earn a starting role to kick off the season. Where that spot along the offensive line is will become more clear as we inch closer to Sept. 6.
The Packers will be getting Zach Tom back from injury. The offensive lineman is coming off the PUP list on Monday.
The Green Bay Packers are returning a starting offensive lineman from injury to start training camp. According to general manager Brian Gutekunst, offensive lineman Zach Tom will be coming off the physically unable to perform (PUP) list ahead of Monday’s practice, the first of training camp.
Gutekunst said Tom would likely be limited at practice to start camp.
“Zach is going to come off PUP this morning, so he’ll be out there today. He’ll be a little limited as we get going here, but he’s doing great,” Gutekunst said.
Tom, a 17-game starter at right tackle last season, tore his pectoral muscle during the offseason and missed most of the offseason workout program.
Tom reported to training camp last Wednesday. He was placed on the PUP list, but it appears his stay on the injury list will only last a few days.
Tom was excellent in his first season as a full-time starter. He allowed only two sacks and 33 total pressures and committed only three penalties over almost 1,100 offensive snaps. At Pro Football Focus, Tom was the Packers’ highest graded offensive lineman.
Gutekunst said tight end Tucker Kraft, who also tore his pectoral muscle, isn’t quite ready to return but is ahead of schedule in his recovery.
NFL.com made the case for Zach Tom as the Packers’ most underappreciated player.
A strong case can be made for offensive lineman Zach Tom as the Green Bay Packers’ most underappreciated player entering the 2024 season.
Tom Blair of NFL.com made that argument in a post of NFC players who “just don’t get the love they deserve.”
“So many young Packers stepped up in so many key positions in 2023 that it might be easy to gloss over Tom’s emergence at right tackle,” Blair wrote.
Tom, in just his second NFL season, played a near Pro Bowl level at right tackle. He survived a gauntlet of elite pass-rushers and gave up just two sacks and two quarterback hits over 17 games. Among all offensive tackles that played at least 600 snaps in 2023, Tom’s overall grade at Pro Football Focus ranked 13th. He committed only three penalties.
The next hurdle for Tom will be going from under-the-radar to universally known as a great player. The start of his third NFL season hit a snag after he tore his pectoral muscle and needed surgery. The Packers are hopeful he’ll be ready for training camp. Once back, Tom will be expected to start somewhere along the Packers offensive line come Week 1 in Brazil against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Tom is the definition of underappreciated. He’s fairly unknown across the league in terms of fan recognition despite coming off a terrific season at a premium position. In terms of skill, performance and importance, Tom is entering 2024 as one of the most valuable players on a potential Super Bowl contender.
Rasheed Walker and Zach Tom provide stability for the Packers at offensive tackle entering the 2024 season.
The Green Bay Packers want to keep building competition along the offensive line in an attempt to find the “best five,” a phrase often used by coach Matt LaFleur, but general manager Brian Gutekunst feels good about what he has in Rasheed Walker and Zach Tom at the offensive tackle spots entering the 2024 offseason.
Walker, a seventh-round pick in 2022, took over for David Bakhtiari at left tackle entering Week 2 and improved greatly down the stretch. Tom, a fourth-rounder in 2022, started all 19 games at right tackle and played at a near Pro Bowl level. Walker might have been the team’s most improved player overall; Tom might have been the team’s top breakout player not named Jordan Love.
While Bakhtiari’s roster status remains in question to start the offseason, the Packers believe Walker has a “bright future” and the ability to play offensive tackle on both sides of the line.
“I think he did a great job,” Gutekunst said Thursday. “You have to give the kid a lot of credit. First of all, his work ethic over the offseason and how tremendously he improved. He fought through some things this year injury wise, he was a warrior out there. He’s done a great job, I’m really glad we have him. I think he can play left and right. We’ll see how it all shakes out…he did a lot of good things. He’s got a bright future and he’s only going to get better. We’re excited about him.”
Walker didn’t play as a rookie and entered training camp as no better than the third option at left or right tackle. But he overtook Yosh Nijman in training camp and became a vital piece of the offensive line puzzle in 2023.
After some expected ups and downs during the first two months spawned a brief rotation with Nijman at left tackle, Walker allowed only 16 total pressures and committed only three penalties over the Packers’ final 10 games, including the playoffs.
Tom might have been one of the NFL’s most underrated offensive tackles in 2023. Among all offensive tackles with at least 600 snaps, Tom ranked fifth in run-blocking grade, 14th in pass-blocking efficiency and tied for fifth in penalties.
Tom is also one of the NFL’s most versatile linemen, but the Packers might be hard-pressed to move him after such an impressive season at right tackle.
“He played really well at right tackle this year, so to move him around I think will be hard on the coaching staff,” Gutekunst said. “At the same time, he’s a guy that can play all five spots and he can be really good at all five of them. It’ll be dependent on what we have and where we need him.”
Gutekunst said he wants to continue building out the offensive line to ensure competition is available at every spot. If the Packers believe Walker can play both sides of the line and Tom is a candidate at all five spots, it’s possible a future scenario exists where the team moves Walker to the right side and Tom to an interior position like center and then uses a high draft pick on a long-term left tackle. But having Walker and Tom coming off such encouraging seasons provides stability at two premium positions entering the offseason.
“I think we’re going to try and get the five best guys we can out there at all times,” Gutekunst said. “It’ll be our job to bring in some guys and have healthy competition there.”
