Packers pull off multiple trades in seven-round mock to target the sweet spots and build the roster the right way
Every year, we hear that there isn’t much difference between players 15 and 40 in a draft. Well, if there’s one season where this might have some sense of truth, it’s 2025. Not that the class isn’t strong, but it’s not as top-heavy as it was in other years.That might make it hard to pull […]
Every year, we hear that there isn’t much difference between players 15 and 40 in a draft. Well, if there’s one season where this might have some sense of truth, it’s 2025. Not that the class isn’t strong, but it’s not as top-heavy as it was in other years.
That might make it hard to pull the trigger on trades down, because other teams won’t be as interested in paying premium assets to move up. However, if the Green Bay Packers are able to do that, it’s certainly the ideal approach—and president Mark Murphy has already indicated that he won’t be bad if general manager Brian Gutekunst trades out of the first round, even with the draft being in Green Bay.
Round 2, pick 36: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State
There were actually two consecutive trade downs, from pick 23 to 34, then to 36. The last time the Packers did something close to this, they got Jayden Reed, Dontayvion Wicks, and Karl Brooks in 2023. This time around, it was possible to add pick 70 in the third round, pick 166 in the fifth round, and a 2026 fifth-round pick.
And with the 36th overall pick, the Packers could grab Emeka Egbuka, a player who could easily be selected with the 23rd pick given his value. There are concerns about where he can play and if he’s a slot only receiver, but his track record as an outside pass-catcher is promising.
Round 2, pick 54: EDGE Bradyn Swinson, LSU
With the Packers’ original second-rounder, Swinson would come in to offer more athleticism and depth to the defensive end room. He was an extremely productive college player, with a 22.1% pass rush win rate last season. Swinson is not exactly a great run defender, but in this range of the draft it's hard to find such a talented pass rusher.
Round 3, pick 70: DT T.J. Sanders, South Carolina
Sanders is on A to Z Sports’ list of the most Packers-y prospects in this class. He is a disruptive interior rusher, and that fits well in what defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley wants to do schematically. Also, defensive tackle is a long-term need considering Kenny Clark’s contract situation.
Round 3, pick 87: T Charles Grant, William & Mary
Mentioned by Mike Renner as one of the most underrated prospects, Grant is a complete player. His athletic profile is not as impressive and that could be a problem for the Packers, but it shouldn’t be in the third round.
Round 4, pick 124: T Jalen Rivers, Miami
Another tackle, another player on the Packers-y list. Rivers is the opposite of Grant, with a great athletic profile and not as good college production. Versatile, he can play tackle or guard and is an intriguing developmental lineman.
Round 5, pick 159: CB Zah Frazier, UTSA
Extremely fast and instinctive, Frazier has impressive ball skills, which leads to pass breakups and interceptions. The problem is that he’s a late bloomer and an older prospect, but in the fifth round that wouldn’t be a big issue—especially considering that the Packers badly need cornerback depth right now.
Round 5, pick 166: RB Brashard Smith, SMU
He transitioned from wide receiver to running back throughout his college career, which brings both positives (ability to catch the football, speed) and challenges (inexperience, problems reading lanes, pass protection). Smith was highly productive last season, though, with 1,659 scrimmage yards and 18 total touchdowns.
Round 6, pick 198: TE Luke Lachey, Iowa
It’s a strong draft class for tight ends, so it makes sense to throw a late dart. Lachey has the ability to generate yards after the catch, even though he has to develop as a blocker.
Round 7, pick 237: WR Ja'Corey Brooks, Louisville
Brooks has been frequent in our mock drafts for the Packers, and made the list of hidden gems, despite being considered an undrafted-type of prospect.
Round 7, pick 250: LB Chandler Martin, Memphis
Martin impresses because of his sideline-to-sideline speed. The Packers are trying to solve their depth issue at linebacker before the draft, but the position is useful both on defense and special teams.
