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Green Bay Packers’ guard sends strong message after rough Week 1 against Vikings
- Story byWI Sports Heroics
- Green Bay Packers’ guard sends strong message after rough Week 1 against Vikings
Donovan Jennings was thrust into the starting lineup for the first time in his career when the Green Bay Packers faced the Minnesota Vikings in Week 1 . The third year undrafted free agent did not get the result he wanted from his debut, but he remains ready to take on the role again if Green Bay gives him another opportunity. Jennings believes the experience gave him lessons he can carry into his next start.
"I'm so eager and ready to get another taste of it because I got that first taste. I'm just ready to put all my improvements together and go out there and do it again," remarked the Packers left guard via Fox11's Vince Lovergine.
The 26-year-old had a difficult showing in the opener, receiving the lowest offensive grade from PFF. With Green Bay looking for more stability at the position, offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich indicated that the Packers could continue making changes until they find the right combination up front.
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Donovan Jennings and the Packers offensive line problem
Green Bay Packers guard Donovan Jennings (67) is shown during a joint practice with the Seattle Seahawks Thursday, August 21, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Aaron Banks could be the first adjustment Green Bay makes along the offensive line. The Packers committed four years and $77 million to him last year, and despite his struggles since signing the deal, the team still appears willing to give him an opportunity to turn things around. The bigger concern is his knee, with tendinitis creating an issue that can flare up without warning and leave his status uncertain on game day throughout the season.
The Packers also have rookie Jager Burton as another option up front. The fifth round pick spent the offseason moving between several positions along the line, including left guard, where he received first team reps. Burton also saw time at center and right guard as Green Bay evaluated his versatility.
Green Bay Packers offensive linemen Jager Burton (52) and Donovan Jennings (67) run through a drill during practice on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin.Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
Jennings' willingness to learn from a difficult debut shows the resilience necessary to survive in the NFL as an undrafted free agent. Getting the lowest PFF grade is humbling, but his eagerness to improve suggests he understands what went wrong and is committed to fixing it.
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Sep 13, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback James Pierre (23) and Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd (32) both attempt to catch the ball during the second half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images
