Sometimes, all you need is a fresh start.
Green Bay Packers fans weren't exactly thrilled when the team signed Andre Dillard this offseason.
After a slow start to training camp and struggles when matched up with Rashan Gary, it seemed like Dillard's time in Green Bay wouldn't last long. However, the former first-round pick has started to turn things around and stack success in the preseason.
Per PFF, Dillard allowed a league-worst 12 sacks last year, prompting the Tennessee Titans to release him only one season into a three-year deal.
Now, he is on track to make the Packers' roster and enter the regular season as the swing tackle behind starters Rasheed Walker and Zach Tom.
Andre Dillard may finally reach his potential with the Packers
Dillard might not become a Pro Bowler anytime soon, but he has provided steady and consistent pass protection in recent weeks. Through two preseason games, Dillard earned PFF's highest pass-blocking grade.
It's a relatively small sample size, but the former first-round pick has allowed zero sacks, quarterback hits, or pressures in the preseason.
This is a make-or-break year for Dillard after last season's struggles with the Titans. The Packers have done an outstanding job of developing offensive linemen during Matt LaFleur's tenure, and they hope Dillard can enjoy a bounce-back year. The early signs are promising.
Doing it in the preseason is one thing. The Packers will need Dillard to build on that if and when he is called upon in the regular season. Going against the league's top pass rushers will create a different challenge.
But Green Bay was the perfect landing spot for Dillard. There's a reason why he went in the first round, and if any coaching staff can help him reach that level in the NFL, it's here. Adam Stenavich has played a significant role in the Packers' offensive line success.
Step one was for Dillard to make the roster. That's almost guaranteed. Now, he needs to do it in the regular season.
