Packers’ Major Offseason Addition Labeled A Disappointment After Minicamp

Now that mandatory minicamp is behind them, the Green Bay Packers move on to the next big step in their Super Bowl quest: training camp. It kicks off on July 23, with the last practice open to fans set for August 21. 

Mandatory minicamp gave Packers fans another chance to get a look at the rookies and free-agent additions in green and gold. Players like Matthew Golden and Mecole Hardman made some headlines, and it will be interesting to see how these new faces acclimate to the team as the year progresses. 

Still, not every new face sparked a positive buzz in the media. For instance, Dairyland Express’ Michael Bohlin believes that Green Bay’s biggest offseason acquisition, Aaron Banks, has already become a disappointment.

“It has been said many times when discussing NFL veterans. The best ability is availability,” Bohlin wrote. “Coming out of Green Bay's offseason program, it is unclear just how much Aaron Banks participated with his new teammates on the practice field as he is working his way back from the MCL injury that ended his 2024 campaign with the San Francisco 49ers.” 

"What we do know for sure is that Banks was present for the Packers' minicamp but did not practice. Instead, he worked on the side with the rehab group. Matt LeFleur tried to downplay the significance of his absence, saying it was not related to any setback," he added. It doesn't change the fact that the team's new $77 million man is missing out on opportunities to gel with the rest of the line tasked with keeping Jordan Love upright."

The Packers signed Banks to a four-year, $77 million deal this offseason, and he should hold down the starting left guard spot for at least the next couple of years. Bohlin also points out that one thing to keep in mind with this move is the impact it could have on Elgton Jenkins and his role on the offensive line.

"Jenkins is a two-time Pro Bowl selection at the same position Banks plays and has two years remaining on his contract," he wrote. "While having too much talent in the trenches is never a bad problem, LeFleur and his coaching staff will have to manage personalities in addition to the play on the field to ensure that all parties remain happy and motivated in their respective positions."

As a coach, you never want to see a player miss time. Still, it’s June, and it is far too early to label anyone a disappointment. Yes, it would be unfortunate if his injury struggles extend into the regular season, but there is more than enough time for him to get healthy, settle in, and be the best version of himself by the time Week 1 arrives.