Packers Rookie Offensive Tackle Did Not Participate Today After Donating Blood to Save His Mother’s Heart Valve Surgery

Green Bay, WI – The Packers’ practice field saw one surprising absence today, but the reason had nothing to do with football or performance. Instead, it was about family and sacrifice.

A young rookie lineman was held out of team drills after stepping away earlier this week to donate blood in order to support his mother during heart valve replacement surgery

. Coaches confirmed his absence was precautionary, allowing him time to recover.

That rookie is Anthony Belton, a 24-year-old offensive tackle taken in the second round (No. 54 overall)

of the 2025 NFL Draft out of NC State. Standing 6-foot-6, 326–336 pounds with long 34 ⅝-inch arms, Belton entered Green Bay praised for his power and versatility, with the ability to play both tackle spots or slide inside to guard.

Through the first four games of his career, Belton has logged 120 snaps (about 35% of team reps), primarily at right tackle. According to Pro Football Focus, he holds a

66.8 overall grade, broken down into 70.2 in pass protection and 63.4 as a run blocker.

While his transition has been promising, discipline remains a concern. Belton has been flagged four times for 45 yards, mostly for holding calls, but has yet to allow a sack or pressure — an encouraging sign for a rookie adjusting to NFL speed.

Coaches view him as a long-term piece in the trenches, with flexibility to shift to guard if veterans Zach Tom or Jordan Morgan suffer injuries. His combination of size, footwork, and raw strength has already stood out on film.

Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed support for his young lineman’s decision: “Family always comes first. Anthony showed strength off the field that matches what he brings on it. We’ll have him back soon, but right now his priorities are exactly where they should be.”

For Packers fans, Belton has already shown more than versatility. In four games, he’s demonstrated not just the physical tools to be a starter, but also the kind of loyalty and character Green Bay values in its players.