Packers think Jake Hanson can be the new Lucas Patrick for offensive line
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The Green Bay Packers think Jake Hanson – who is now healthy after dealing with a bum hip as a rookie – can be the offensive line’s replacement for Lucas Patrick, who gave the Packers depth and a starting-caliber player at any of the three interior positions, including center.
Offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich didn’t hesitate when asked if Hanson has Patrick-like ability.
“Yeah. He has the ability to play any inside position and hopefully, he does a good job in these next preseason games and proves it,” Stenavich said Thursday.
Patrick signed with the Chicago Bears this offseason after starting 18 games and playing over 1,800 total snaps for the Packers over the last two years.
Hanson, a 2020 sixth-round pick out of Oregon, has been a starter at right guard for much of training camp and the team’s preseason opener in San Francisco. He’s been cross-trained at both guard positions and is the most likely backup behind Josh Myers at center, giving him Patrick-like versatility inside.
Although the Packers are still playing with offensive line combos, and the eventual return of Elgton Jenkins will shake up the lineup, it’s possible Hanson could start at right guard come Week 1 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
Last season, Hanson played all of six offensive snaps over five regular-season games.
Is he ready for the next step now that Patrick is gone?
Stenavich, who was promoted from offensive line coach to offensive coordinator after Luke Getsy left earlier this year, has seen a huge step in development from Hanson this summer.
“Jake has had one of the best camps of anyone on our offense, just from taking that next step,” Stenavich said. “I think his first year, his hip was banged up and he just didn’t look right. He got his hip fixed and then has come back and he looks like a brand-new guy. So, he’s playing with physicality, he’s intelligent, he has the ability to center. I’m excited about him.”
