Winners and Losers from Packers’ First Full-Pads Practice of Training Camp

Green Bay Packers training camp officially began on Monday with the first padded practice of the season, marking a pivotal moment for players as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. The day saw a mix of standout performances and challenges, with several players emerging as winners and others facing setbacks. The practice, held in full pads, provided a realistic simulation of the physical demands of the season, with players facing big hits and executing under pressure. The day also highlighted the competitive nature of the team, with multiple players vying for starting roles and roster spots.

Will Sheppard: A Rising Star in the Receiver Battle

Will Sheppard, a young receiver in the second tier of the Packers’ depth chart, made a strong impression during the practice. Despite being at the bottom of the list in terms of pure athleticism, Sheppard was at the top of the production rankings dating back to the offseason. His performance during a 2-minute drill stood out, as he was knocked out of practice twice after taking big hits but still managed to make a crucial catch for a 60-yard gain, setting up a “winning” field goal. This display of resilience and determination earned him praise from teammates and coaches alike.

“It’s what we paid to do,” Sheppard said. “Come out here, get hit, get knocked down, just get back up, next-play mentality.”

The practice also saw other players step up, with quarterback Tyrod Taylor showing improved confidence and playmaking ability. Taylor, who was signed in May to replace Malik Willis as Jordan Love’s backup, demonstrated his experience with two big-time throws, including a long completion to Bo Melton and a bomb to Will Sheppard. These plays signaled a potential increase in his role as the season progresses.

Dani Dennis-Sutton and the Edge Rush

Dani Dennis-Sutton, the fourth-round pick, emerged as one of the most impactful edge players during the practice. He recorded three tackles for losses on running plays and put pressure on Tyrod Taylor during a 2-minute drill. Despite being part of the second team for most of camp, Dennis-Sutton’s performance suggested he could be in the running for a starting role. His ability to make plays under pressure was a key factor in his success. Meanwhile, veteran edge player Lukas Van Ness, who had a strong start to training camp, struggled to make an impact on Monday. His limited production in his career and his importance on the roster made the day noteworthy, though it was clear that he still has work to do to solidify his position. The performance of offensive tackles Jordan Morgan and Darian Kinnard also played a role in keeping Van Ness from making more plays.

Key Challenges and Roster Decisions

The practice also highlighted the challenges faced by several players, particularly in the tight end position. The Packers have seven tight ends on the roster, with several dealing with injuries. Tucker Kraft is recovering from a torn ACL, Luke Musgrave is out indefinitely with a neck injury, and rookie RJ Maryland and former Texans draft pick Luke Lachey were held out of practice due to hamstring and foot injuries, respectively. This leaves the team with only three healthy tight ends: Josh Whyle, Messiah Swinson, and Drake Dabney, making it difficult to run a full practice.

Despite the challenges, the day also saw the Packers’ top four draft picks showing promise. Second-round cornerback Brandon Cisse is expected to be in the running for a starting job, possibly as early as Week 1. The performance of these players, along with the continued development of others, will be crucial in shaping the team’s roster and depth throughout the season. As training camp continues, the focus remains on execution, resilience, and competition. The first padded practice was just the beginning, and the coming weeks will be critical in determining who will be ready for the season opener.