Green Bay, Wisconsin – December 1, 2025
The lights shine brighter in December—especially in Green Bay. Rookie offensive lineman Anthony Belton knows that all too well. Just weeks after being shifted to right guard, the 6-foot-6, 336-pound second-rounder has found himself under a blinding spotlight, with fans and pundits alike calling him the “missing piece” in the Packers’ playoff puzzle.
Belton, however, isn’t basking in the praise. He’s wrestling with it.
“It’s been a whirlwind,” Belton admitted after Monday’s practice. “I appreciate the support, but sometimes it feels like I’m expected to be a Pro Bowler overnight. I’m still learning this position, still finding my rhythm. I just don’t want to let anyone down.”
That pressure intensified after a rough outing on Thanksgiving Day. Against the Lions, Belton allowed six pressures and was flagged for a false start—one that nearly cost the Packers a touchdown. While Green Bay still won, 31–24, the performance raised questions about his readiness with critical games ahead.
Head coach Matt LaFleur isn’t interested in overreactions. In fact, he’s doubling down on his belief in the rookie.
“He doesn’t need to be perfect,” LaFleur told reporters. “He just needs to keep growing. Anthony has the physical tools, but more importantly, he’s coachable. He owns his mistakes, and that’s all you can ask from a young player in this league.”
LaFleur also revealed the move to right guard was intentional, not experimental. The staff saw a blend of power and discipline in Belton’s tape from NC State and believed his skillset was a natural fit for the interior line.
“We’re not just plugging holes,” LaFleur added. “We’re building something. Belton is a big part of that.”
With matchups against Chicago and Seattle looming, Belton’s development will be tested. But inside the Packers’ facility, there’s patience—and belief.
“Green Bay expects a lot,” Belton said with a nod. “But I’m not running from it. I’m learning, I’m battling, and I’m going to keep showing up.”
