The Green Bay Packers' recent addition of Josh Gesky to their roster via undrafted free agency has sparked intrigue among fans and analysts alike. With a unique blend of athleticism and power, Gesky presents an intriguing prospect for the team's offensive line. Here's a deep dive into his strengths, weaknesses, and potential impact on the Packers' 53-man roster.
The Athletic Prospect
Gesky's athletic profile is impressive, with a 9.61 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) out of 10 at the guard position. His speed and explosion testing were elite, with a 5.03 40-yard dash and a 1.74 10-yard split. These results ranked in the 90th percentile or better among 1,908 guards who completed athletic testing since 1987. His 33" arms and 6-5 frame, weighing around 308 pounds, contribute to his physical prowess.
The Tape Analysis
On tape, Gesky demonstrates a mauling style, using his thick build and good torque to his advantage. He plays with a firm base and rarely gets pinballed around. His ability to latch on with strong arms and hands, and maneuver defenders, is a strong asset in both run and pass protection.
Strengths
- Run Blocking: Gesky excels in the run game, displacing defenders laterally and clearing them out of the play. He stays locked on to opponents well and maintains a consistent aiming point. His ability to generate movement and work on double-team blocks is a significant strength.
- Pass Protection: He shows the ability to sustain blocks for a long time, reworking his hands to stay locked on defenders. His firm base provides an anchor, and he moves his feet adequately in pass sets. Gesky's play style is enjoyable to watch, as he blocks to the whistle and always looks for work.
Weaknesses
- Pad Level: Gesky's biggest issue is playing high, which undercuts his leverage battle. He ends up too upright, leading to stalemates in the run game and giving up ground in pass pro.
- Agility and Technique: His lack of agility shows up at times, and he can struggle to get out of his stance and through his first couple of steps. He also needs to be more proactive in shooting his hands and extending when engaged.
The Verdict
Gesky's talent and physical attributes suggest he should have been drafted, and he has the potential to compete for a back-end roster spot on the O-line. While he has some physical limitations, most of his issues are coachable. With the right development and coaching, he could become a solid contributor and even a starter in the NFL.
In my opinion, Gesky's mauling style and ability to generate movement in the run game make him a valuable asset. His pass protection skills and willingness to finish plays also make him a strong candidate for the roster. However, addressing his pad level and agility concerns will be crucial for his long-term success.
