Packers defense shines in the first padded practice of 2024 camp (July 29), but rookie RB MarShawn Lloyd suffers an injury. Get the latest on Lloyd & Jordan Love.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The intensity was cranked to eleven at Packers training camp on Tuesday as the team strapped on the pads for the first time. The sound of helmets and pads colliding echoed across the practice field, signaling the true start of the evaluation process. While the defense rose to the occasion with a fiery performance, the day was soured by a significant injury to one of the team's most anticipated rookies.
'Guys want to go out there and compete.' - Jordan Love
The defense came to play in the first full-contact session, consistently challenging the offense. The highlight battle of the day was between second-year corner Carrington Valentine and receiver Malik Golden, with Valentine showing sticky coverage and making several plays on the ball. The intensity wasn't just in the secondary; rookie linebacker Ty'Ron Hopper also made his presence felt, knifing into the backfield for a tackle for loss during team drills. Quarterback Jordan Love acknowledged the challenge after practice, praising the defense for bringing the heat and forcing the offense to elevate its execution.
The biggest downer of the day was the loss of rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd. The fourth-round pick, who had been turning heads with his explosiveness, pulled up during a drill and was later confirmed by team sources to have suffered a groin injury. His status remains uncertain pending further evaluation, creating a sudden question mark in the backfield. Lloyd's absence opens the door for other backs to earn more reps, but losing a promising young player is a tough pill to swallow this early in camp.
While the young players battled, veteran leadership provided a steadying force. Pro Bowl guard Elgton Jenkins was a rock on the offensive line, anchoring the unit and drawing praise from coaches for his consistency and communication. In a practice defined by high energy and physicality, Jenkins' performance was a crucial reminder of the veteran core's importance in setting the standard for the entire team, especially as position battles heat up around them.
The competitive atmosphere is building toward a major fan event. Defensive lineman Barryn Sorrell shared his excitement for the upcoming Packers Family Night, promising a 'great atmosphere' for the Green Bay faithful. The event serves as a crucial tune-up under the stadium lights and an opportunity for players to connect with the community. For fans, it will be the first big chance to see these camp competitions play out in a game-like setting.
The first day in pads set a physical, competitive tone for training camp. While the injury to a promising rookie like Lloyd is a blow, the intensity on both sides of the ball is exactly what the coaching staff wants to see. All eyes now turn to how the team carries this momentum into the rest of the week, culminating in the fan-favorite Packers Family Night, where the competition will be on full display under the Lambeau lights.
