Packers offensive line should move forward without Aaron Banks

East Rutherford, New Jersey - September 20, 2026 - Green Bay Packers guard Aaron Banks has been practicing on a limited basis, his second such limited appearance this week. The season thus far has been challenging for Banks, who missed significant time through training camp with a knee injury and was forced out of the Week 2 game against the Jets after just 22 snaps due to a toe injury.

Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed that the offensive line situation is fluid and depends on Banks' condition. However, this reporter argues that the Packers should move forward without Banks' presence, replacing him as the left guard with Laken Tomlinson. Tomlinson has been adequate at his role, playing every snap of the last two games and contributing significantly as a pass rusher.

With Tomlinson and Travis Glover, the Packers' offensive line has shown improved support for Sean Rhyan, who has improved his pass protection. Banks' limited reliability has been a contributing factor to the Packers' offensive line struggles this year. The reporter suggests that the Packers should resign themselves to Banks playing the role of an expensive backup.

The projected starting lineup without Banks would count about $14.7 million against the cap, providing financial relief while maintaining the team's strong offensive line.