Following David Bakhtiari‘s injury that led to a prolonged absence, the Packers decided to make a change and shifted away from their defense-focused draft strategy. Jordan Morgan has been identified as the successor in this position.

The Packers, who had only picked one offensive player in the first round from 2012-23 (Jordan Love), selected Morgan at the 25th spot this year. A deal has been finalized with the former Arizona tackle, ensuring fully guaranteed compensation until 2027. If Morgan remains on the team until 2027, Green Bay will need to decide on a fifth-year option.

Bakhtiari’s ACL tear in 2020 created significant challenges for the Packers, as they were without their All-Pro left tackle for most of the following seasons. Despite Morgan recovering from an ACL tear in November 2022, he demonstrated his value as a first-round prospect in the most recent season. The Commanders attempted to trade back into the first round for Morgan, but the Packers seized the opportunity with their top pick.

Despite his injury history, Morgan overcame obstacles to become a first-round pick in a draft filled with tackle options. Having started 37 games at left tackle during his three-year tenure at Arizona, Morgan earned a first-team All-Pac-12 selection in his final season. Prior to his ACL injury, Morgan primarily played at left tackle for the Wildcats.

Rasheed Walker stepped in for Bakhtiari at left tackle last season, with Zach Tom playing at right tackle. Although Tom is recovering from a torn pectoral muscle, he is expected to return before training camp or the regular season. The Packers envision Morgan as their left tackle, which may lead to Walker transitioning to a backup role once the rookie is ready to take over. Both Walker and Tom are signed for two more seasons. In addition to adding Andre Dillard for depth this offseason, the Packers have played 42 regular-season games without Bakhtiari since 2020.

Here is a breakdown of the Packers’ draft class as they head into training camp:

• Round 1, No. 25: Jordan Morgan (T, Arizona) (signed)
• Round 2, No. 45 (from Broncos through Saints): Edgerrin Cooper (LB, Texas A&M) (signed)
• Round 2, No. 58: Javon Bullard (S, Georgia) (signed)
• Round 3, No. 88: MarShawn Lloyd (RB, USC) (signed)
• Round 3, No. 91 (from Bills): Ty’Ron Hopper (LB, Missouri) (signed)
• Round 4, No. 111 (from Jets): Evan Williams (S, Oregon) (signed)
• Round 5, No. 163 (from Bills): Jacob Monk (C, Duke) (signed)
• Round 5, No. 169: Kitan Oladapo (S, Oregon State) (signed)
• Round 6, No. 202: Travis Glover (T, Georgia State) (signed)
• Round 7, No. 245: Michael Pratt (QB, Tulane) (signed)
• Round 7, No. 255: Kalen King (CB, Penn State) (signed)