Packers offensive line fix boosts Love’s performance

The Green Bay Packers began the 2026 season with a critical flaw that became undeniable after a 1-2 start, capped by a 35-14 defeat to the Atlanta Falcons. The core problem was the offensive line, which failed to protect quarterback Jordan Love effectively. Through the first two games, he faced pressure on 44.4% of his dropbacks—a rate trailing only Bryce Young, Caleb Williams, and Deshaun Watson, according to Pro Football Focus. The consequences were immediate. On those pressured snaps, Love completed only 36% of his passes for 300 yards, with zero touchdowns and two interceptions.

The Packers addressed the issue by adding three veteran offensive linemen: Laken Tomlinson, Mekhi Becton, and Kevin Zeitler. Tomlinson took over as the starting left guard in Week 4 against Tampa Bay, while Zeitler briefly appeared on the active roster for Week 5 against Chicago, though he remained behind Travis Glover on the depth chart. The adjustments proved decisive.

Over Weeks 4 and 5, Love was pressured on just 20% of his dropbacks, 13 of 65, a league-low rate among the 34 quarterbacks active during that span. The improvement reflected a deliberate shift in strategy rather than luck. Despite facing deep coverage and long passes, Love attempted 13 throws of 20 yards or more, tied for the most in the NFL. Against Chicago, the Packers even opened with a slow-developing flea-flicker screen to tight end Tucker Kraft, demonstrating confidence in the line’s ability to withstand pressure.

Read Also: The Skins Game Returns for Black Friday on Prime Video

Play-action revolution transforms Packers offense

Offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich discussed the change in approach. He noted that the Packers were no longer abandoning the run game but instead forcing defenses to account for it. The results validated the philosophy. Against Chicago, Love completed 12 of 14 play-action passes for 245 yards and a touchdown. Over the two-game stretch, play-action accounted for 30.6% of his dropbacks, up from 18.8% in the first three weeks, a league ranking of 13th. On those plays, he threw for 424 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions, averaging 13.3 yards per attempt, second only to Lamar Jackson.

The line’s success extended beyond play-action. In Week 5, the Bears deployed a mix of edge rushes and interior stunts, testing the unit’s ability to reset quickly. On one play, Love took a three-step drop before delivering a 28-yard touchdown to Christian Watson after the line held against a double-team blitz. The play showed the unit’s improved discipline in pass protection, even with extra defenders. Later, on a deep shot to Watson, the Bears blitzed with both edge rushers, but the offensive line held firm. Love then punished the defense with a vertical route, splitting two deep safeties. Against a slow-developing stunt blitz, the line absorbed the pressure, allowing Love to step into the pocket and deliver a game-sealing throw.

Veteran additions spark line’s defensive resilience

The depth chart adjustments played a key role in the turnaround. Tomlinson’s experience at guard and tackle provided flexibility, allowing the coaching staff to experiment with alignments. His presence at left guard in Week 4 stabilized the interior and offered veteran leadership to younger players like Rhyan and Morgan. Becton, though still on the practice squad, added depth at right tackle, a position that had been a concern early in the season. His arrival gave the Packers an extra option in case of injuries or to challenge incumbent starters. Zeitler’s brief activation in Week 5 signaled the team’s willingness to adjust the depth chart as needed.