Brian Gutekunst is known for his defensive-minded priority in the draft. Since he took over as the Green Bay Packers general manager in 2018, seven of his nine first-round picks have been defensive players — the exceptions are quarterback Jordan Love and offensive lineman Jordan Morgan.

Last week, our Travis May, A to Z Sports' College Football Managing Editor, wrote a three-round mock draft. And his bet is that the Packers will keep that same approach. He projected Green Bay to take a defensive tackle, a cornerback, and an edge rusher with its three top selections.

Let's dive into each of them.

27. Green Bay Packers: Derrick Harmon, DL Oregon

Travis May's perspective: Derrick Harmon needs to improve his tackling and gap control consistency for a man who measures in a 6'5", 310 pounds, but he's also perhaps the best pass rushing defensive tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft not named Mason Graham. He creates consistent havoc and offers crazy high pass rush win rates and pressure percentages. The Packers could use some more havoc up front to help supplement their strong offense.

Wendell Ferreira's perspective: With Kenny Clark playing better down the stretch, the need to take an interior defensive lineman is not as pronounced. But it's fair to say that Devonte Wyatt has not been worth his draft spot, even though he's a useful piece, and TJ Slaton is slated to hit free agency. Considering all those factors, it makes sense for the Packers to invest there — especially considering how impactful the position is for Jeff Hafley's scheme.

59. Green Bay Packers: Maxwell Hairston, CB Kentucky

Travis May's perspective: Maxwell Hairston emerged as one of the best cornerbacks in the nation in 2023 after playing very little throughout his first two years of college. He allowed less than 10 yards per reception playing almost exclusively on the perimeter, which is a remarkable accomplishment in the SEC. He struggled some in 2024 as he was fighting through a shoulder injury for the vast majority of the season, but Hairston is still one of the best coverage defenders in the 2025 NFL Draft class and should be a Top 64 pick.

Wendell Ferreira's perspective: Cornerback is the most glaring need for the Packers. Jaire Alexander has handled multiple serious injuries over the last four years, he's getting older, and it's past the time for the Packers to look for alternatives. Eric Stokes has been better down the stretch, but will hit free agency. Green Bay needs at least depth, if not an immediate starting option. It would be shocking if Gutekunst didn't take a cornerback in the first couple of rounds.

91. Green Bay Packers: Ashton Gillotte, EDGE Louisville

Travis May's perspective: Gillotte exploded onto the scene two years ago when Louisville decided to move him more to the edge instead of four- and five-tech roles. He jumped up from just posting pressure and win rates around 10% to all the way 16% over the last two years. Gillotte's slight positional shift instantly made the entire pass rush better for Louisville. This past season, thanks to all the attention Gillotte garnered, nine other players logged at least a dozen pass rush pressures on the season. Talent. Leadership. Versatility. He brings it all.

Wendell Ferreira's perspective: The edge rushers have played better lately, but Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness are not exactly perfect fits for Jeff Hafley's scheme. You can see how impactful Brenton Cox has been, because he's more of a bender. Gillotte is not a lighter defensive end, but his explosiveness is an intriguing proposition.

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