A year ago, the Green Bay Packers had the youngest and most inexperienced roster in the NFL, yet they managed a 9-8 record and snuck into the playoffs. They defeated the Dallas Cowboys before falling to the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers in the Divisional Round.
This season, the Packers still hold the title of the youngest and most inexperienced team in the league, but they’re on track for another playoff run, boasting an 8-3 record ahead of their Thanksgiving matchup with the Miami Dolphins.
In short, things are looking up for Green Bay. With one of the healthiest salary cap situations in years, the Packers seem poised for sustained success.
However, some players on this current roster may not be part of that future. Here’s a look at some key players whose time in Green Bay might be coming to an end.
AJ Dillon, RB
AJ Dillon’s situation is tough. After splitting carries with Aaron Jones for his first four seasons, Dillon’s hopes of becoming the lead back in Green Bay were dashed when the Packers signed Josh Jacobs. Following a season-ending neck injury in the second preseason game, Dillon’s NFL future seems uncertain. With Jacobs locked in through 2027 and rookie Mar’Shawn Lloyd also under contract through that year, Dillon’s spot on the roster is unlikely to extend beyond this season.
Josh Myers, C
Selected in the second round of the 2021 draft to replace All-Pro Corey Linsley, Josh Myers has failed to live up to expectations. Though he’s been durable, missing only one game over the past three years, his play has stagnated. His best Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade was 60.4 in 2022, but his current 51.5 mark ranks 37th out of 38 centers. The Packers need an upgrade at center.
Eric Stokes, CB
Eric Stokes, a 2021 first-round pick, has also failed to improve significantly. Now in his fourth season, he hasn’t recorded an interception since his rookie year and has been largely ineffective in coverage. His 50.0 PFF grade places him 105th out of 110 cornerbacks, and with the Packers opting not to pick up his fifth-year option, it’s likely Stokes’ time in Green Bay will soon be over.
Corey Ballentine, CB
Corey Ballentine, relegated to third-string duties this season, seems all but gone from Green Bay. After logging 488 defensive snaps last season, he’s only played 45 this year. With a PFF grade of 47.7 overall and 50.4 in coverage, Ballentine’s days in Green Bay are numbered, and his $2.1 million salary makes him an easy cut.
Isaiah McDuffie, LB
Isaiah McDuffie has struggled, particularly after the switch from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense under defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. While he’s been decent against the run, his pass coverage has been poor, allowing 30 receptions on 37 targets, an 81.1% completion rate. His struggles on defense, coupled with his continued strong play on special teams, may keep him around, but as a starting linebacker, his time could be up.
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