Packers consider a long-forgotten name as they brainstorm creative solutions for a surprise challenge

The Green Bay Packers used the extra preparation time before their matchup against the Chicago Bears to evaluate new talent. The team invited six players for workouts, targeting areas where depth might be needed in the coming weeks, including the defensive interior, defensive backs, and offensive line.

The standout among these names is one that hasnt been in the spotlight for years. Defensive tackle Ross Blacklock, a former second-round selection who previously spent time in the NFC North with the Minnesota Vikings, participated in the workout. The Packers defensive line depth became a key concern after Devonte Wyatt suffered a season-ending lower-leg fracture.

Players Evaluated by the Packers

Ross Blacklock: Drafted in the second round by the Houston Texans in 2020, Blacklock never fully met expectations. His NFL journey has included stops with the Vikings, Jaguars, Colts, Titans, and Giants. While he struggled against the run, he recorded 25 pressures in 2021 as an interior pass rusher for the Texans.

Raikes: A rookie, he spent four seasons at Texas A&M before transferring to Auburn for his final year in 2024. In the NFL, he was with the Titans, appearing in 23 preseason snaps and registering one pressure.

Brown: After an impressive Packers training camp and standout performance on Family Night, Brown missed much of the season due to a lung injury described by coach Matt LaFleur as serious. He appears fully recovered now. Previously undrafted, Brown spent time with the Denver Broncos before joining Green Bay, including practice squad stints and elevations for two games in 2024.

Reid: A former South Dakota cornerback, Reid had a solid preseason with the Seahawks, playing all three games and logging 55 defensive snaps. He allowed a 79.2 passer rating when targeted and recorded one pass breakup.

Barnhart: Listed as a tackle by Green Bay, he has more NFL experience at guard, having been with the Chargers, Broncos, and Buccaneers, but he has not appeared in a regular-season game. In preseason, he played 219 snaps at guard and six snaps at a sixth offensive lineman position.

Etienne: An undrafted rookie, he joined the Bengals in training camp but was waived due to injury before final cuts. He saw 72 offensive snaps in preseason games at left tackle, allowing three pressures.

The Packers recent workouts reflect a strategic search for reinforcements following Wyatts injury, with particular attention on bolstering the interior of the defensive line.

Analysis: Packers Seek Depth Amid Wyatt's Injury

The Green Bay Packers' recent decision to evaluate new talent is a clear response to the growing concerns over their defensive line depth, especially after the season-ending injury to Devonte Wyatt. With the upcoming challenges of the season, the Packers are prioritizing reinforcements in key areas such as the defensive interior, defensive backs, and offensive line. This proactive approach allows the team to stay competitive and responsive to potential in-season needs.

The most notable name among the players evaluated is Ross Blacklock. Once a promising second-round pick by the Houston Texans, Blacklock has yet to live up to his potential but showed flashes of talent in 2021 as an interior pass rusher. Despite struggles against the run, his ability to apply pressure could be a valuable addition to the Packers' defensive line, which is now lacking a key piece in Wyatt.

Other players like rookie Raikes and veterans like Barnhart and Brown bring varied experience, with each offering a different skill set that could help the team address gaps in the roster. Raikes, for instance, is a raw prospect, but his past performance in college and preseason could hint at untapped potential. Meanwhile, Brown, recovering from a significant lung injury, could provide a needed boost at defensive back if he returns to his previous form.

These workouts suggest the Packers' front office is thinking ahead, carefully evaluating options to fill potential voids in their depth chart. With a deep playoff run still within reach, the team's ability to adapt and bring in reinforcements at this stage could be pivotal in navigating the latter half of the season.

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• Packers test a name you probably haven't heard in ages as they explore creative options to address an unexpected new problem