Green Bay Packers Training Camp: New Coordinators, Cornerbacks, and a Crowded Receiver Room

GREEN BAY, Wis. — The Green Bay Packers are in the thick of training camp, and there is plenty to sort out as the team prepares for the upcoming season. From a new defensive coordinator to a revamped cornerback room and a logjam at wide receiver, here is a look at the key storylines emerging from the first week of practice.

New defensive coordinator brings intensity

Jonathan Gannon has brought a noticeably different energy to the Packers defense compared to his predecessor, Jeff Hafley. While both coaches are known for their intelligence and teaching ability, Gannon is more fiery and demanding on the practice field.

“I think I'm energetic by nature because I love what I do, so it's hard not to be energetic and enthused about something,” Gannon said. “And I'm grateful for this job so I'm going to show good energy.”

That intensity was on display early in a recent practice when Gannon was visibly upset with a player after a routine run play. It is a trait that suggests he will hold players to a high standard.

Special teams coach brings hands-on approach

New special teams coordinator Cam Achord is taking a more hands-on approach than his predecessor, Rich Bisaccia. Achord, who wears cleats during practice, explained that he learned the hard way in New England after getting his nose broken by a player during drills.

“I started doing that in 2018 when I got to New England, because I got tired of getting thrown on the ground doing gunner releases with Matt Slater,” Achord said. “Justin Bethel broke my nose because I'd wear a bag and an arm shield.”

Backup tight ends: Josh Whyle stands out

Josh Whyle has been the most productive of the backup tight ends during camp, though it is unclear if that is because he is truly standing out or simply because the competition is thin. Drake Dabney has shown some promise, while Messiah Swinson has not factored into the passing game.

The preseason games will provide a better opportunity to evaluate these players.

Running game concerns? Not yet

The running game has not looked sharp in camp, but that is not unusual. Offseason practices are heavily focused on the passing game, and it is difficult to simulate a physical run game without pads.

The offensive line is expected to be improved this year, and running back MarShawn Lloyd is showing signs of becoming a legitimate contributor. If those pieces come together, the running game should be better than last season, when the team's per-carry averages dropped significantly.

Wide receiver depth: Questions beyond the top three

The Packers have a clear top three at wide receiver, but the depth behind them is a concern. Savion Williams, a third-round pick last year, has been inconsistent. Bo Melton is a solid special teams player but has not shown he can be a consistent offensive weapon. Skyy Moore was signed to fix the return game but has had drops in camp.

The team could keep seven receivers, but that would require one of the younger players to emerge as a consistent weapon. Isaiah Neyor has looked better than J. Michael Sturdivant so far, but consistency is key.

Cornerback room: Keisean Nixon still starting, but rookies pushing

Keisean Nixon remains the starting cornerback, but his role is being challenged by rookie Brandon Cisse and free agent addition Benjamin St-Juste. Cisse has impressed with his professional mentality, while St-Juste brings size that could be an asset in specific matchups.

Cisse has a legitimate shot to be a Day 1 starter, but he is more likely to beat out Carrington Valentine than Nixon. The Packers' moves in the offseason suggest they may not be interested in retaining Nixon or Valentine long-term.

Pass rush: Lukas Van Ness needs to step up

Lukas Van Ness has not been a standout as a pass rusher so far in camp. Other edge rushers like Barryn Sorrell, Dani Dennis-Sutton, Brenton Cox, and Collin Oliver have produced more pressures. Van Ness will need to show more in the upcoming Family Night scrimmage and the first preseason game to solidify his role.

Defensive tackle: A pleasant surprise

The defensive tackle group has been better than expected. Nazir Stackhouse has taken first-team reps and has been disruptive against the run. Warren Brinson has shown improvement as a pass rusher. The depth at this position could be a strength heading into the season.

Offensive line: Depth and competition

The starting offensive line has been steady, but there is plenty of competition among the backups. John Williams has played multiple positions, while Dalton Cooper and Travis Glover are getting reps at tackle. The team is still sorting out its best options for depth.

Family Night: How to watch

The Packers will hold their annual Family Night scrimmage on Friday, which will be televised on the Packers TV Network and livestreamed on packers.com and the Packers app. Tickets are very limited. The event will feature fireworks.

What does this mean for Iowa Packers fans?

For Iowa Packers fans, the team's progress in camp is of particular interest. The Packers are broadcast on KWWL-TV and WHBF-TV in Iowa, making it easy to follow the team. The development of the running game, the pass rush, and the secondary will be key factors in the team's success this season.