5 best training camp battles for Packers in 2019

4. Right guard

Billy Turner vs. Justin McCray vs. Elgton Jenkins

It’s not as if this a team without talent on the offensive front. And while sacks allowed aren’t necessarily a number that should all fall on the pass blockers themselves, it’s worth noting that the Packers did surrender a surprising 53 QB traps a year ago.

This unit is set at both spots on the outside with standout David Bakhtiari on the left side and 30-year-old Bryan Bulaga at right tackle. The former was a Pro Bowler in 2016, named All-Pro this past season and has been a 16-game starter four times in six seasons. Bulaga was in the opening lineup for 14 games in ’18 but has struggled with injuries during his career. Elsewhere, center Corey Linsley has been a reliable performer and Lane Taylor has been Green Bay’s primary left guard the past three years.

Then there was the right guard position a season ago. Justin McCray started the first three games but in a Week 3 loss at Washington he suffered a shoulder injury. Enter Byron Bell the next nine games. McCray would eventually return in Week 14 but Lucas Patrick would be the team’s starting right guards in Weeks 15 (Bears) and 16 (Jets) before McCray returned for the season finale. Instability at the position, to say the least.

Hence one reason the Packer inked guard Billy Turner, late of the Denver Broncos, to a four-year, $28 million deal in March. The five-year pro played in all 16 games this past season and made 11 starts. But is he a lock for the job this year? Both McCray and rookie Elgton Jenkins (2-Mississippi State) could have a say in the matter.

Next: No. 3