The Packers’ 2026 season may come down to whether the right young players take the next step.

On today’s episode of Packers: DERAILED, J.J. Lahey breaks down why Matthew Golden and Chris McClellan could be two of the biggest keys to Green Bay’s success this season. Golden has a chance to define the Packers’ passing game with his speed, explosiveness, and ability to change how defenses play Jordan Love. McClellan could be just as important on defense if he gives the Packers the interior presence they badly needed.

But not every young player is a sure thing.

We also discuss why Anthony Belton and MarShawn Lloyd still have real questions to answer. Belton has the traits and opportunity, but offensive line development is never automatic. Lloyd has exciting talent, but availability and role clarity still matter if he is going to become a real piece of the Packers offense.

Topics include:

- Matthew Golden’s role in the Packers offense

- Why Golden could unlock more for Jordan Love

- Chris McClellan’s importance to the defensive line

- Why the Packers need McClellan to hit quickly

- Anthony Belton’s upside and uncertainty

- MarShawn Lloyd’s talent, role, and injury concerns

- Which young Packers players matter most in 2026

- Green Bay’s path to taking the next step

- Packers roster questions after the NFL Draft

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