Josh Myers has decided to leave the Green Bay Packers for the New York Jets but general manager Brian Gutekunst is not too worried about about the position he vacated because of one guy – Elgton Jenkins.
Green Bay Packers center Josh Myers (71) is shown during the team’s mini camp Tuesday, June 11, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Myers left Green Bay for a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Jets. He came to the team in 2021 as a 2nd round pick, 62nd overall.
He is a solid center but his career has been marred by injuries.
Dec 23, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers guard Elgton Jenkins (74) following the game against the New Orleans Saints at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Jenkins is older than him but Gutekunst believes the best is yet to come for the Mississippi State Bulldogs stand out. This is more possible now if they will turn him into a starting center.
Gutenkust is high on Elgton Jenkins’ versatility
Gutenkust first hinted about Jenkins switching position two weeks ago.
“We feel he’s got a chance to be an All-Pro center,” the GM said during an appearance in front of Green Bay reporters on Monday.
“We’ve talked about it a lot, how versatility plays into our offensive line and having guys that can move to different spots, and Elgton’s one of those guys who can play all five spots. So, he’s a luxury, but I’m excited to see what he can do at center, as well.”
Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst addresses the media after the first round of the 2024 NFL draft on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers selected Arizona offensive tackle Jordan Morgan with the 25th pick.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
Jenkins is a back-up center to Myers but he also plays out of position. Matt LaFleur has been playing him heavily at left guard position in the past seven years.
Despite that, he blossomed in that position. He was named to the Pro Bowl twice – 2020 and 2022.
He signed a four-year contract worth $68 million before the start of last season and he is more than living up to the pressure of such huge contract.