The Green Bay Packers are counting on Zach Tom to anchor the right tackle spot while they continue developing their offense, but a recent knee procedure has cast uncertainty over that plan.
Tom had offseason surgery to repair a torn patellar tendon, but Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst does not expect it to impact his availability for the 2026 season, according to USA Today’s Ryan Wood.
Brian Gutekunst says Zach Tom had surgery after last season to repair partially torn patellar tendon. He’s doing well now. #Packers expect him to be his usual self this season.
— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) April 21, 2026
“Brian Gutekunst says Zach Tom had surgery after last season to repair partially torn patellar tendon. He’s doing well now. #Packers expect him to be his usual self this season,” Wood wrote on a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Zach Tom with the Packers
Apc Packers Vs Rams 81650 121922 Wag
A knee issue held Zach Tom to just 12 appearances in 2025, but he remained highly effective when on the field. He posted an 83.5 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking seventh among 89 tackles, while placing 15th in pass blocking at 78.5 and 12th in run blocking at 81.9. That level of production ultimately convinced the Green Bay Packers to reward him with an $88 million contract extension.
The Packers will keep a close eye on the 27-year-old throughout the offseason. Even with Gutekunst expressing confidence, Tom is still working his way back from a significant procedure. With playmakers like Jordan Love and Josh Jacobs on offense, the unit still depends heavily on a reliable line up front, and Tom has developed into one of the more dependable right tackles in the league.
With a four-year extension in place, Green Bay is clearly committed to keeping Zach Tom in that role for the long haul. For now, though, their top priority is getting him back on the field.
Following a successful procedure, Brian Gutekunst remains confident that Tom will be ready as the team gears up for the upcoming season.