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The Green Bay Packers suffered a tough 30-10 loss to the New York Jets in their 2025 preseason opener. While the overall team performance left much to be desired, preseason games are less about the scoreboard and more about prospects proving their worth. Despite the rough outing, several Packers roster hopefuls stood out, improving their chances of making the final roster with encouraging performances. Here are three players who notably improved their stock during the debut against the Jets.
One of the biggest positives for the Packers came from undrafted running back Amar Johnson. In a game where the offense struggled to find rhythm, Johnson’s play brought a spark. Head coach Matt LaFleur commended Johnson, noting that he “ran hard and obviously flashed some playmaking ability,” signaling more opportunities ahead for the rookie.
Amar Johnson appreciation post.
Out of the few bright spots in last weekend’s game, this was definitely the best moment.
Johnson, an UDFA who spent 4 seasons at South Dakota St., showed off his ability to break tackles on this 39-yard TD. #GoPackGo
pic.twitter.com/QJg6Bc0Ueg— SleeperPackers (@SleeperPackers) August 11, 2025
Johnson’s speed was on full display, reminiscent of his blazing 4.39-second 40-yard dash during the pre-draft process. He showcased a rare combination of vision, quickness, and the ability to bounce off tacklers, an encouraging sign for a guy fighting for a roster spot. With other backs like MarShawn Lloyd sidelined with injury, Johnson is in a prime position to carve out a role on the Green Bay backfield. His impressive showing was one of the few bright spots on offense and has firmly put him on the radar of coaches and fans alike as a potential diamond in the rough.
Defensively, the Packers were dominated for much of the game, but one player stood out in the trenches: defensive tackle Nazir Stackhouse. Early in the game, Stackhouse made a critical play on a fourth-and-1, blowing up the Jets’ attempt to keep a crucial drive alive. This disruptive moment not only helped the Packers regain possession but also showcased his ability to win one-on-one battles against NFL-caliber linemen.
Nazir Stackhouse continues to show you why he’s going to make this Packers roster.. pic.twitter.com/AAeQf1NnnK
— THE DRAFT JUNKIES (@nfldraftjunk) August 10, 2025
Stackhouse’s strong presence and disruptive hustle sent a clear message to the coaching staff that he deserves serious consideration for the roster. In an otherwise underwhelming defensive performance, his effort was a reminder that the Packers have young talent worth developing on the defensive line. Combining this with good showings from other backups like Colby Wooden, Stackhouse could be a key figure in the defensive rotation as the Packers look to rebuild this unit.
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