Packers add Kevin Zeitler as offensive line changes continue

Green Bay added Kevin Zeitler on a one-year agreement Wednesday, giving its struggling offensive line a third veteran addition in a matter of days. ESPN's Rob Demovsky reported the deal, while Matt LaFleur discussed integrating the guard at his Wednesday news conference.

The contract carries a $4.05 million value and can reach $5 million with incentives, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported. Zeitler follows Laken Tomlinson onto the active roster and Mekhi Becton onto the practice squad. The Packers confirmed those earlier moves Monday, along with placing tackle Zach Bako-Bewele on injured reserve.

Zeitler's arrival gives Green Bay an experienced option at right guard, where first-year starter Jacob Monk has struggled, according to Demovsky. It also creates a decision about readiness: LaFleur said Zeitler must get into practice and go through a ramp-up period before entering the lineup. The coach did not announce that he would start Sunday's game at Tampa Bay.

The Packers' official Wednesday media session covers Zeitler's arrival and the process of getting the newcomers ready.

Green Bay has averaged 48.7 rushing yards through three games, ESPN reported. That puts the emphasis on getting the line functioning together, beyond simply adding recognizable names. Three experienced arrivals give the coaches more combinations to assess, but the additions alone do not establish a settled starting five.

Zeitler, 36, has appeared in 214 NFL games. The former Wisconsin player was Cincinnati's first-round selection in 2012 and started 16 games for Tennessee last season. He brings a long record of playing guard to a unit making changes after a 1-2 start.

For Packers fans waiting for an improved rushing game, the distinctions between these arrivals matter. Zeitler and Tomlinson are active-roster additions; Becton joined the practice squad. LaFleur's comments make practice readiness the immediate test for Zeitler, with the actual lineup still to be determined as the Packers prepare for the Buccaneers.