Players with most at stake in Packers' 2024 preseason opener

Depending on how the Packers' preseason opener unfolds, these players could either set themselves up for major roles in 2024 or risk falling behind their competition.

On Saturday, the Green Bay Packers will take part in a live-action football game for the first time since January, a preseason tilt with the Cleveland Browns. An exhibition might not quite resemble a genuine NFL product, but it does provide a necessary look at dozens of players jockeying for key roles and roster spots on the team in a true competitive environment. No pseudo-tackling thud. No red non-contact jerseys.

But while the game holds significance for every player who takes the field, it means more for certain players. Highly paid veterans and recent early round draft picks will almost certainly have their spots on the 53-man roster secured, health permitting. For others, a poor performance can mean ceding ground to someone else or perhaps falling out of favor altogether. In those cases, every snap counts.

So, while Jaire Alexander, Jordan Love, Kenny Clark, and the Packers' other veteran leaders will likely play a series or two and call it an early night, a few of their teammates have much more at stake.