Grading the Packers trade down from 41 to 45 with the Saints
The Green Bay Packers decided the board was strong enough at 41 and decided to move down four spots early in the second round, a similar move to the one they did last year. The Packers traded the 41st pick to the New Orleans Saints for picks 45 (2nd), 168 (5th), and 190 (6th). With […]
The Green Bay Packers decided the board was strong enough at 41 and decided to move down four spots early in the second round, a similar move to the one they did last year.
The Packers traded the 41st pick to the New Orleans Saints for picks 45 (2nd), 168 (5th), and 190 (6th). With the 45th pick, the Packers selected linebacker Edgerrin Cooper.
Why it makes sense
The difference in prospects from picks 41 and 45 is simply not that high. General manager Brian Gutekunst had that experience last year, when he moved down twice in the second round, from 45 to 48 to 50. He ended up with wide receiver Jayden Reed in the second, and the extra picks generated wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks and defensive tackle Karl Brooks.
Moreover, defensive back Cooper DeJean was taken one pick earlier, as the Philadelphia Eagles traded up to get him. The Saints moved up to take cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry.
Results
On Monday, during his pre-draft press conference, Brian Gutekunst had said 11 picks were not enough, and he could make moves to add extra capital. Now, Green Bay had offensive lineman Jordan Morgan and 12 more selections.
Philosophically, trading down is a great process. And the value Gutekunst was able to acquire was significant considering it was a slight move down.
Grade for the Packers: A
Bill Belichick had strong words about the Packers’ draft decision
Former Patriots head coach was a guest on the Pat McAfee Show
