Packers evaluate offensive line after Week 1 pass-protection woes

Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich said the team will rotate offensive linemen during practice this week to determine the most effective starting five after the unit allowed 18 quarterback hits in a 39-22 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 1. Stenavich, who previously coached the line from 2019 to 2021, attributed the protection breakdown to miscommunications, mental lapses and physical deficiencies, noting that the Vikings blitzed on 73.9% of Packers dropbacks, the highest rate in the league after one week.

"Eighteen times, actually. It's not good enough. It's not the standard. That's not what we're going to be about. We've got to be better," Stenavich told reporters.

Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores exploited the Packers' vulnerable front, registering a 54.3% pressure rate, the league's highest after the opening weekend. The Vikings also generated pressure without blitzing at a 58.3% rate, surpassing all other teams in that category.

Stenavich said the coaching staff will assess players such as right guard Jacob Monk, who earned the job over Anthony Belton during the offseason, and left guard Donovan Jennings, who started over rookie Jager Burton. He highlighted the need for continuity on the line, especially with veteran left tackle Jordan Morgan and right tackle Zach Bako-Bewele returning from injury.

Head coach Matt LaFleur emphasized that the priority is to establish a stable lineup, noting that injuries have caused frequent changes at the position. The Packers aim to improve both pass protection and the running game, which averaged 3.1 yards per carry in the opening contest, before facing the New York Jets in Week 2.