Despite being an inch shorter than the ideal standard, Jordan Morgan, the Green Bay Packers’ first-round offensive lineman, is brimming with confidence as he aims to validate his worthiness at left tackle in the NFL.
With arm measurements of 32 7/8 inches, just shy of the preferred 34-inch mark favored by most teams for successful left tackles, questions arise about his suitability for the position, suggesting he might be better suited for guard, a position he never played in college.
However, Morgan brushed off these concerns during his media session at Green Bay’s rookie minicamp.
“I often hear about my short arms,” he remarked. “But clearly, those critics haven’t closely examined my performance on film. I effectively utilize them to move defenders off the ball and excel in pass protection, as evidenced by my statistics. It doesn’t faze me. I’m determined to prove them wrong.”
Morgan’s track record so far supports his ambition to safeguard the quarterback’s blindside, albeit against college-level competition.
The 22-year-old showcased his skills in 41 games for the Arizona Wildcats, starting in 37, all at left tackle. Over his final two seasons, he played 880 snaps and allowed just three sacks, according to PFF, culminating in a first-team All-Pac-12 selection.
“When I started in college, arm length didn’t concern me,” Morgan reflected. “Despite hearing about it, I was placed at left tackle, and it proved to be the right fit.”
Transitioning to the professional level, where split-second decisions are crucial in thwarting edge rushers, will be pivotal for Morgan. He must maintain impeccable form to mitigate the impact of his slightly shorter reach at left tackle.
Fortunately, the Packers excel in offensive line development, having unearthed talents like David Bakhtiari (whose arms measured 34 inches) and Zach Tom, a fourth-round pick in 2022.
Having not selected an offensive lineman on Day 1 of the draft since 2011, the Packers have a clear strategy for Morgan. He is listed as an offensive tackle on their roster, and head coach Matt LaFleur had him operating at his customary position on the first day of rookie camp.
Whether he remains there once veterans join and training camp commences will unfold over the coming months. But for now, Morgan is focused on proving himself as a genuine left tackle capable of protecting the quarterback on the edge.
