Guard Jon Runyan to leave Packers, sign free agent contract with New York Giants

GREEN BAY − With Josh Jacobs joining the Green Bay Packers backfield, general manager Brian Gutekunst can turn his focus to the final piece of crafting an elite offense, building his offensive line.

The process will be without three-year starting guard Jon Runyan, who will sign a three-year, $30 million contract that includes $17 million guaranteed with the New York Giants, according to ESPN. A sixth-round draft pick in 2020, Runyan started 50 of the Packers’ 51 games over the past three years.

Runyan’s departure was expected after 2022 third-round pick Sean Rhyan emerged in a rotation at right guard midway through last season. They have complementary skillsets, Rhyan the more rugged run blocker at 6-foot-5, 321 pounds but needs refinement as a pass blocker. Runyan, at 6-4, 306 pounds, was a college left tackle at Michigan whose strength was interior pass protection but could be overpowered in the run game.

Runyan played more than 3,000 snaps the past three seasons, including 928 in 2023. He started losing snaps to Rhyan in December and was effectively in a 50-50 split the last four games of the regular-season before his snap count increased in the playoffs.

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It’s likely the Packers will add competition for their offensive line in the draft. A top priority could be left tackle, where Gutekunst can choose from a heralded class to compete with 2022 seventh-round pick Rasheed Walker. The Packers also are likely to add interior offensive line depth, which could translate into competition with Rhyan at right guard.

Regardless, Rhyan figures to have a strong chance at the starting job this offseason with Runyan heading to New York.