Packers project 53-man roster ahead of final cutdown
Analyst predicts Green Bay’s final roster, noting likely positions for quarterbacks, running backs, receivers, and defensive players as the team approaches its preseason deadline.
An analyst has outlined a projected 53-man roster for the Green Bay Packers ahead of the final preseason cutdowns. The projection relies on depth-chart assessments and the team’s recent preseason performances, where 37 players participated against the Arizona Cardinals.
At quarterback, the analyst expects Jordan Love and Tyrod Taylor to remain on the active roster, with rookie Kyle McCord likely to be signed to the practice squad rather than competing for the backup role. For running back, Josh Jacobs is projected to stay on the roster despite pending legal issues, while Pierre Strong Jr. and undrafted rookie Jaden Nixon could join the practice squad if Jacobs is suspended.
The wide-receiver group is projected to include starters Christian Watson, Matthew Golden and Jayden Reed, with Savion Williams, Bo Melton and Skyy Moore as primary backups. Undrafted rookie J. Michael Sturdivant is highlighted for his preseason production, which was the highest for a Packers receiver in a preseason game since 2011.
Tight end Jonnu Smith is expected to make the roster alongside Tucker Kraft, with Luke Musgrave remaining on the PUP list. The offensive line projection retains most starters and adds rookie Jager Burton, while dropping tackle Darian Kinnard.
On defense, the projected interior line includes Devonte Wyatt, Karl Brooks, Javon Hargrave and others, with Jonathan Ford listed as the primary nose tackle. Edge defenders Lukas Van Ness, Barryn Sorrell, Brenton Cox Jr. and Dani Dennis-Sutton are expected to fill the rotation, noting that Micah Parsons is on the PUP list.
The linebacker group mirrors the 2025 unit, featuring Zaire Franklin, Edgerrin Cooper, Isaiah McDuffie, Ty’Ron Hopper and Nick Niemann. Cornerbacks Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, Brandon Cisse, Benjamin St-Juste and rookie Domani Jackson are projected, with Jackson likely to be retained as a developmental player.
Safety positions include Xavier McKinney, Evan Williams, Javon Bullard, Kitan Oladapo and Kamal Hadden, with Hadden expected to serve in a slot-defender role. Trey Smack is projected as the sole kicker, Daniel Whelan as the punter, and Cal Adomitis as the long snapper, with Matt Orzech still on the PUP list.
The analyst notes that the roster could still be affected by unforeseen suspensions, trades or injuries before the final cutdown.