Three bold Packers draft predictions that might split fans but would show a clear vision for building the roster
It’s finally draft week. After months of preparation and talk, most of what will be discussed these next few days is smoke screen. So it’s the perfect moment to take a step back, see what the Green Bay Packers have said and shown us, and try to predict what’s to come for the franchise. Trade […]
It’s finally draft week. After months of preparation and talk, most of what will be discussed these next few days is smoke screen. So it’s the perfect moment to take a step back, see what the Green Bay Packers have said and shown us, and try to predict what’s to come for the franchise.
Trade down + cornerback in the first
Full disclosure, it's completely possible that this scenario doesn't happen because it's very specific. A trade down depends on other teams wanting it in a class that's not that enticing for moves up, and taking a player from the position depends on who's available on the board when the Packers pick.
However, this would be one of the ideal scenarios for Green Bay. The team has only 29 players under contract for 2026, so they need volume. Moreover, the Packers have eight draft picks, which would be tied for the fewest selections since general manager Brian Gutekunst took over as a GM in 2018.
In regards to the cornerback position, the need is real. They lost Eric Stokes, Corey Ballentine, and Robert Rochell in free agency, adding Nate Hobbs. Plus, Jaire Alexander has probably played his last down as a Packer.
"We need numbers right now," Gutekunst said after the season. "Because we do have some free agents coming up, so we're gonna need numbers and kind of see where that room goes. Obviously Ja will impact that as well. We'll just see how that goes."
Multiple wide receivers
This time, I will not enter the discussion about the real WR1 or the first-round receiver. Click those links if you want that. This is just about volume, bodies, and future.
The Packers have only two receivers under contract beyond 2025, Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks. Sure, they might keep Christian Watson or Romeo Doubs, but they might not either, because the WR market is tough to swallow.
Getting multiple wide receivers on Days 2 and 3 is absolutely on the table, as it should be.
"We've had a lot of second-round receivers that have been pretty good players for us," Gutekunst said at the NFL Combine. "So, again, I do think the immediate impact of wide receivers is changing because the way these guys are coming out of school, where they can be more impactful quicker."
The Packers took three receivers in each of the 2018, 2022, and 2023 drafts. Brian Gutekunst clearly isn't afraid to take multiple shots at the same position.
Big guys later
The Packers don't necessarily have big needs at offensive and defensive line. But 1) they need depth at both spots and 2) the mid- and long-term need is more palpable.
On offense, Zach Tom, Rasheed Walker, and Sean Rhyan are all free agents next offseason. Even if you presume that Tom will get an extension, losing 40% of the starting offensive line is something to keep an eye on. On defense, Kenny Clark might be a cut candidate, and Devonte Wyatt will also be a free agent, unless the Packers exercise his fifth-year option.
"There's been a lot of talk about the offensive and defensive lines maybe being a little bit stronger than in some years," Gutekunst stressed. "I think it's a good draft overall, we're excited for it. We certainly think there's a bunch of opportunities to help our football team."
If those positions are strong and the need is not immediate, it's the perfect combination to add Day 3 pieces and watch them develop.
