Kevin Zeitler is officially stepping onto the field with the Green Bay Packers’ starting offensive line this Wednesday, a clear signal he is expected to be the starter at right guard for their Week 5 clash against the Chicago Bears. This is a massive shift and exactly what head coach Matt LaFleur hinted at after Zeitler’s signing.
Why Zeitler Was Kept On The Bench
Last Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Travis Glover did a good job filling in at right guard, and the offensive line looked more cohesive with him and Laken Tomlinson. But let’s be real, the bar was super low after the first three weeks of the season. Zeitler starting against the Bucs would’ve been a huge ask, even with LaFleur saying “as soon as (Zeitler) feels good and ready to go, he’ll be in there.” The dude had just signed last Wednesday, fresh off quad rehab, barely had time to pick up the playbook, and the game was on the road in ridiculously warm weather. Seriously, all the cards were stacked against him seeing any action.
Zeitler’s Impact Could Be Instant
Good news: all those factors keeping Zeitler off the field are now gone. He’s had the full week to get ready to start against Chicago. The weather in Green Bay this weekend is expected to be unseasonably warm, around 80 degrees, but it’s a home game, so no travel complications. If there was any doubt about who’s getting the starting nod, the team website’s depth chart puts it to rest: Zeitler is listed as the starter, with Jacob Monk as the backup and Donovan Jennings on the third string. This guy’s presence is already paying dividends, too. That more stable offensive line against the Buccaneers seemed to benefit from Zeitler passing along some veteran experience in meetings last week. Putting him on the field this Sunday? That should only boost the entire offense even more.
So, all eyes on Sunday against the Bears. Zeitler on that line could be the spark this Packers offense needs to really get firing and build on that win from last week.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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