GREEN BAY, Wis. — The Green Bay Packers’ 2025 training camp has kicked off with a cloud of uncertainty hanging over one of their most vital players, two-time Pro Bowl offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins. The 29-year-old, who is transitioning from left guard to center, was sidelined on the first day of camp due to a back injury, landing him on the non-football injury (NFI) list. This development, combined with his reported concerns about the financial implications of his position switch, has thrust Jenkins into a career crossroads that could reshape his future with the Packers and in the NFL.
A Versatile Star Under Pressure
Elgton Jenkins has long been a cornerstone of Green Bay’s offensive line, showcasing remarkable versatility by starting at four different positions—left guard (51 starts), left tackle (eight), right tackle (six), and center (four)—over his six-year career. His ability to adapt has made him a valuable asset, earning him Pro Bowl honors in 2020 and 2022 while anchoring a line that ranked third in the NFL in sacks allowed (30) last season. However, the Packers’ decision to move Jenkins to center following the departure of Josh Myers to the New York Jets has introduced new challenges, both physically and contractually.
The team’s acquisition of former San Francisco 49ers lineman Aaron Banks on a four-year, $77 million contract to take over at left guard—Jenkins’ primary position for 67 starts—prompted the shift. General Manager Brian Gutekunst expressed confidence in Jenkins’ ability to excel at center, noting, “We feel he has a chance to be an All-Pro center.” Jenkins’ college experience at Mississippi State, where he primarily played center, supports this optimism. Yet, the timing of his back injury raises questions about his readiness for the role and the long-term impact on his career.
The Back Injury: A Cause for Concern
Jenkins’ absence from drills on the opening day of training camp, as reported by multiple sources, stems from a back issue sustained outside team facilities, landing him on the NFI list. General Manager Brian Gutekunst described it as a “back thing” but expressed confidence that Jenkins would return to practice once cleared, stating, “Yeah, absolutely.” However, the injury’s timing is far from ideal. Jenkins also missed the Packers’ organized team activities (OTAs) and was a non-participant at mandatory minicamp, raising speculation about whether his absence is solely injury-related or tied to ongoing contract disputes.
Back injuries, particularly for an offensive lineman tasked with the physically demanding role of center, can be a significant concern. The position requires constant bending, snapping, and blocking, all of which could exacerbate an existing back issue. Packers quarterback Jordan Love emphasized the importance of Jenkins’ return, stating, “Once he gets back from injury, it’ll be great to have him back out there… you want to be feeling as comfortable as possible and get as many banked reps in with our relationship and make sure there’s no issues with snaps, no balls on the ground.” Without sufficient practice reps, Jenkins’ ability to build chemistry with Love and the new-look offensive line—featuring Banks at left guard, Sean Rhyan at right guard, Zach Tom at right tackle, and either Rasheed Walker or rookie Jordan Morgan at left tackle—could be compromised.
Contract Tensions and Financial Uncertainty
Adding to the complexity is Jenkins’ reported dissatisfaction with his current contract, a four-year, $68 million extension signed in December 2022. With two years remaining, none of the money is guaranteed, and his 2026 cap hit of $24.8 million includes only $4.8 million in dead money, making it feasible for the Packers to move on if they choose. ESPN reported that Jenkins skipped OTAs due to concerns about how the move to center, a less financially lucrative position than guard or tackle, might impact his future earnings. This has led to speculation of a “hold-in,” where Jenkins attends camp but refrains from practicing to leverage a contract amendment.
Gutekunst downplayed the contract dispute, noting, “Contractually, there’s all kind of guys on our team and throughout the National Football League that would like different circumstances with that, so that’s normal. Elgton’s always done right by us. We’ve always done right by him.” However, the lack of guaranteed money and the positional shift place Jenkins in a precarious situation. At 30 years old by December, Jenkins is at an age where long-term contracts become harder to secure, especially if injuries persist or his performance at center doesn’t meet expectations.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The Packers’ offensive line is undergoing significant changes, with Zach Tom’s recent four-year, $88 million extension solidifying his role at right tackle and Banks’ arrival reshaping the interior. Jenkins’ transition to center is critical, as the position demands precision and leadership to coordinate the line’s protection schemes. His prior experience—four NFL starts at center and a college career at the position—suggests he has the skills to succeed, but the back injury and limited practice time could hinder his ability to adapt fully before the season begins.
The Packers are banking on Jenkins’ versatility and competitive nature, as highlighted by offensive line coach Luke Butkus: “Elgton is the ultimate competitor… he’s been more vocal, helping the young guys.” If Jenkins can overcome his injury and embrace the center role, he could solidify Green Bay’s offensive line as one of the NFL’s best, potentially boosting their run-heavy offense led by running back Josh Jacobs. However, a prolonged recovery or unresolved contract issues could create a ripple effect, forcing the team to rely on backups like fifth-round pick Jacob Monk or others who struggled in last season’s playoff loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
A Defining Moment
Elgton Jenkins stands at a pivotal moment in his career. His ability to recover from this back injury, adapt to the center position, and navigate his contract situation will determine whether he remains a cornerstone of the Packers’ offensive line or faces an uncertain future. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations in 2025, Jenkins’ health and performance are non-negotiable. As training camp progresses, all eyes will be on whether this two-time Pro Bowler can rise above the challenges and reclaim his place as a leader on Green Bay’s revamped offensive front.