“Packer’s Playoff Push and 2024 Vision: Targeting Offensive Tackle Amarius Mims to Bolster Jordan Love’s Protection”

The Green Bay Packers are heading into a crucial showdown against the Chicago Bears to close out the regular season on January 7, with a playoff spot on the line. Despite the positive developments, such as Jordan Love solidifying his role as the franchise quarterback and promising young wide receivers in Christian Watson, Jayden Reed, and Romeo Doubs, the Packers still have roster gaps to address in 2024.

According to a CBS Sports mock draft by Josh Edwards, the Packers are projected to select Georgia offensive tackle Amarius Mims with the No. 12 overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft. The move is seen as a step towards facilitating Love’s progression into a top-tier quarterback and addressing the potential departure of veteran David Bakhtiari.

Mims, standing at an imposing 6-foot-7 and weighing 340 pounds, recently declared for the draft after an impressive career with the Bulldogs. Known for his exceptional run-blocking skills, Mims is touted as one of the top offensive tackle prospects. ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. ranks him as the No. 5 offensive tackle in the class, praising his agility and impact in run-blocking situations.

Pro Football Focus highlights Mims’ remarkable consistency in pass protection during the 2023 season, allowing only 2 quarterback pressures in 297 offensive snaps without surrendering a sack. This reliability in the passing game could play a crucial role in Love’s development and the Packers’ pursuit of offensive explosiveness.

The urgency to address the offensive line is emphasized by David Bakhtiari’s situation. Bakhtiari, who recently underwent knee surgery, faces another procedure in the offseason to address fluid buildup in the lateral femur. With Bakhtiari’s history of injuries and multiple surgeries, the Packers may prioritize securing a successor in the offensive tackle position through the draft.

As the Packers navigate a potential changing of the guard from Aaron Rodgers to Jordan Love, securing a reliable offensive line, especially at the tackle position, becomes a key focus for General Manager Brian Gutekunst as they aim for success in the 2024 season.