After Wide Receiver, What Are the Packers Biggest Needs Heading Into the 2022 NFL Draft?
By GilMartin
With the NFL Draft a week away it is clear to everybody that the Green Bay Packers biggest need is at wide receiver. Both Davante Adams and Marquez Valdes-Scantling will be elsewhere in 2022 and even after the signing of Sammy Watkins, they will need to add multiple players at the wide receiver position.
But what the team’s biggest needs after wide receiver? While the Packers have solid starters at nearly every position, there are several areas that the team clearly needs to fortify in this year’s draft.
Here is a look at the top five areas of need the Packers have entering the 2022 NFL Draft besides wide receiver. The rankings are based on a combination of short-term and long-term needs and the importance the Packers tend to place on each position.
Edge
The Packers are set here with Preston Smith and Rashan Gary as the starters, but if either of these players were to miss significant time, the depth at this position is lacking. Neither Jonathan Garvin nor Tipa Galeai have proven they can provide consistent pressure off the edge.
Harrying opposing quarterbacks is a key to winning in the NFL and the Green Bay defense needs to add some depth at this position. It’s vital to keep edge rushers fresh and to rotate then in and out of the game. For example, Preston Smith and Gary each played 68 percent of the Packers defensive snaps last season. If the Packers had a third player who could provide consistent pass rush, they could keep all three fresh and maximize their effectiveness.
With Preston Smith turning 30 later this season and Gary only under contract through 2022 (although the Packers hold a fifth-year option), developing somebody who can step into the starting lineup in a year or two is critical.
Ask any NFL head coach or GM and they’ll tell you they can never have enough pass rushers. The Packers need to add some more.
Offensive Line
The Packers released last year’s starting right tackle, Billy Turner and center/guard Lucas Patrick left via free agency. That leaves the Packers needing depth along the offensive line. Last season, so many linemen went down with injuries at various times and that only underscores the need for more quality players at this position.
There is also uncertainty here. David Bakhtiari played only one half of one game all season after coming off a serious knee injury. Elgton Jenkins also injured his knee in November and may not be ready to start the season on time.
If everybody’s healthy, this is a solid unit but the Packers will spend some draft capital here to add depth and possibly some players who could start in 2023 or beyond with Bakhtiari on the wrong side of 30 and Jenkins only under contract for one more season.
Safety
The Packers are set with Adrian Amos and Darnell Savage giving them two quality starters, but after that there are more questions than answers.
Henry Black, last year’s third safety was not given a qualifying offer. That leaves Vernon Scott, Shawn Davis and Innis Gaines as the backups.
Amos may become a free agent after 2022 and Savage is entering the final year of his rookie contract as well. The Packers may exercise a fifth-year option on Savage, but still, there are questions at the position beyond 2022 and a need to upgrade depth here for the coming season.
Look for GM Brian Gutekunst to add a safety in this year’s draft, possibly on day two.
Tight End
The tight end position seems set for this year but again, there are questions after that. Robert Tonyan is coming off a season-ending knee injury and is on a one-year, prove-it contract. Can he recapture the level of play he showed in 2020 if he’s healthy? He is the only tight end on the roster who has shown the ability to stretch the field consistently.
Marcedes Lewis is the team’s best blocking tight end and a leader in the locker room, but “Big Dog” will be 38 by the time this season gets under way and may retire after the 2022 campaign.
Josiah Deguara may still develop but seems more like an H-back, blocker and possession receiver than a downfield threat. He is valuable but has yet to prove he’s ready to be the number one guy at the position.
So far, Dominique Dafney and Tyler Davis has proven to be good blockers and special teams players but are not proven starters.
Head coach Matt LaFleur likes to use his tight ends in a variety of different roles in the offense and the Packers will need to make sure they have more talent here for 2023.
The Packers will look to draft a tight end of the future this year, probably in the middle rounds of the draft.
Defensive Line
The Packers have rarely prioritized interior defensive linemen but they have indicated they want someone to compliment Kenny Clark and penetrate on runs and get some more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Jarran Reed adds experience and depth but he’s on a one-year deal. T.J. Slaton could take another step forward but the Packers view him as more of a run stuffer than someone who can collapse the pocket consistently.
Dean Lowry is a hard worker but also stronger against the run than at rushing the passer.
An upgrade here could help the defense improve its run defense and pass rush and take the defense to another level if Gutekunst is willing to devote the resources to improving this area.
You can follow Gil Martin on Twitter @GilPackers
Comments (176)
BirdDogUni
April 21, 2022 at 12:08 pm
Good thing we have enough AMMO to take care of most of those needs.
Add in the Ammo when Gutey deals Jordan Love day 1, and we'll be (Green) and Golden! ; )
(Sorry, couldn't resist...) XD
PatrickGB
April 21, 2022 at 01:52 pm
😉 good one.
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 07:06 pm
But a bad man
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 07:32 am
Trade Rodgers and LOAD. UP.
mnbadger
April 21, 2022 at 12:16 pm
I'm hoping we make picks in rounds 1-4 and don't trade them up for one or two higher rated players. We need as many really good players as we can get. We've proven that a team with a few superstars has holes that the best teams can exploit in crunch time. GPG! Hold tight Gutey, we need more talented players.
PatrickGB
April 21, 2022 at 02:03 pm
Player ratings this year for the draft have been all over the place. So maybe it’s trust your board and see who falls just in case a deal comes your way. I am of the opinion that the team was reaching for a WR when we had to settle for Jordan Love at that spot. But I doubt that the team would admit that. Jordan is better than any QB’s this draft but not what we needed. It’s a odd example. But yes, hang on to the picks unless a crazy opportunity arises.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2022 at 02:48 pm
Aiyuk was the target. They scouted him for two years. He fit the offensive scheme as the #2 WR, motion guy.
BirdDogUni
April 21, 2022 at 05:27 pm
So, you're saying Gutey traded up before he knew if Aiyuk would still be available?
If that is true, we have the stupidest GM in history.
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 05:51 pm
What you do not know is when the trade was agreed to vs when it was announced. I have read the Packers were moving up to target Jefferson, Aiyuk and Love if the first two were not available.
I do not understand your point.
BruceC1960
April 21, 2022 at 08:10 pm
If they were after Ayuik or Jefferson and settled for Love, that looks like it was poorly executed.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2022 at 10:28 am
They didn't want to move ahead of Philly to #20. The price was too high. Everyone expected Philly to take Jefferson, but they did the typical Philly shuffle with the Reagor selection and the Vikings won the jackpot.
dblbogey
April 21, 2022 at 06:42 pm
Could be fake news, like most stuff we read.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 22, 2022 at 12:27 am
Justin Jefferson and Brandon Aiyuk were already drafted by the time Gutekunst traded up to the #26 pick. He knew those guys were gone. Not to mention, he still had his pick of Tee Higgins, Michael Pittman, and Chase Claypool but he drafted Love instead. Drafting Love wasnt some panic move or consolation pick. They targeted him before the draft and when he fell to the 20s they went up and got him. No need to look any further than that. It doesnt matter if they needed him anyways. Quarterback is the most important position in sports so you dont wait till need one to draft one. Thats what bottomfeeders like the Bears do. You should be thankful the Packers dont operate like that.
murf7777
April 22, 2022 at 08:00 am
RTS…couldn’t agree more. The mastermind Wolf knew that and was the best at drafting QB’s. Not many GM’s would’ve traded a 1st for brett favre after his rookie year of what some might call debauchery. During Favre’s career he drafted multiple QB’s and later traded them, but he always knew the value of a QB, even though they weren’t as valuable as today due to rule changes.
brenner
April 22, 2022 at 05:23 pm
I'm sure it's not going to be a popular opinion, but I wouldn't mind seeing the Packers trade out of one or both of their 1st round picks to get more picks between 2 and 4. By the time the Packers are on the clock I don't see many players that will be huge impact guys, and last season showed it was the bottom half of the roster that cost us a chance at the super bowl. Get as many quality pieces as possible.
splitpea1
April 21, 2022 at 12:39 pm
Probably safety and edge, and both need to be ready to contribute in a reasonable period of time. No long-term projects, please! You know they'll be looking for a tackle at some point, but I just hope it's not until the third round. The Packers always seem to be able to cobble together a respectable OL unit no matter what the circumstances, so aside from this one position, there shouldn't be a need to devote an inordinate amount of attention here. And be looking for quality special team talent everywhere!
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 01:48 pm
OL room is down 3 players who all started many games during the season. Cobbling together right now does not yet look promising. Drafting just one T in the third round won't get it done.
I think they take 2 OL in the first 2 days/early day 3.
OL (2), WR (2), OLB/Edge, S, DL (in no particular order) should fill the first 4 rounds (7 selections), unless a top ILB drops (Lloyd, Chenal, Muma, Anderson) or a TE like McBride...then need to adjust.
Finish up with rounds 5 and 7 (4 selections) with prospects, ST type players at ILB, TE, WR, CB.
splitpea1
April 21, 2022 at 02:20 pm
So what happens when these injured OL return? Then once again we have an overcrowded "room" of offensive lineman at the expense of improving other areas of the team. We cannot afford to draft three (and bring others in) every year and expect to be a complete team. More playmakers in all three phases and less obsession with the offensive line is the ticket to finally reaching the Super Bowl again (even the Bengals, with THAT offensive line, were able to make it).
Leatherhead
April 21, 2022 at 03:51 pm
Yes, we don't want to have too many good, healthy linemen.
We dress 9 OL. Right now, for the opener, that would hopefully be Bakhtiari, Runyan, Myers, Newman, and Nijman for the first five. The next four will probably end up starting quite a few games for us. Who are they?
The last two seasons have ended with a cobbled together group of beaten down lineman on the field. Wagner's last game. Probably Kelly's last game. Turner, out of position. Myers, rushed back from an injury. No Jenkins. No Bakh. This is our reality: Our #9 offensive lineman might very well have to start, in the playoffs, against Aaron Donald...or worse.
So my attitude is get the 9 best you practically can, and put another two on the practice squad. We are a long, long, way from having an offensive line room being too full, but a couple of blue chips would really improve the unit.
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 05:58 pm
"Overcrowded room"? Wow. There are lots of empty chairs in that room right now unless you want UDFAs or unproven PS guys sitting there.
This is perhaps one of the deepest OL classes in many years for a team needing a quality starter or two and solid depth at positions that play as many snaps on the Team as the QB.
splitpea1
April 21, 2022 at 06:35 pm
Nijman used to be sitting there and now he might be a viable starter....If the class is supposedly so deep, then we can afford to wait, especially since the Packers have demonstrated an uncanny ability over the years to find gems in the middle rounds.
Meanwhile, we have no credible depth at safety whatsoever; if one of the two starters should miss time, we might be in a serious bind. The same maybe with edge. Really though, the WR situation must be addressed first and foremost multiple times. The guys we have now may all be able to block, but we need speed and youth in the biggest way; not only now, but for the future....So these are the empty chairs I would attempt to fill first.
dblbogey
April 21, 2022 at 06:46 pm
I'd love an NFL ready right tackle in the first round. Bakh, Elgton, Myers, Runyan and a stud rookie sounds good.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 22, 2022 at 12:33 am
1) You're assuming Bakh and Jenkins return from injury and even if they do return youre assuming theyre back to normal. Bakh may never be right again and Jenkins could very well miss most if not all of the season like Bakh did.
2) Bakh has already had contract restructured twice which means hes a prime candidate to become a salary cap casualty after this season. And Jenkins is on a contract year. Coming off injury, Packers may be reluctant to pay him what he thinks he deserves. Theres at least a decent chance neither of them play for the Packers ever again.
3) Everything starts up front. You want to improve the run game? Get better blockers. You want to improve the pass game? Get better blockers. You want to protect the $50 million investment you just made on an ancient and somewhat injury prone quarterback? Get better blockers. You can never have enough big guys. Especially with how many injuries weve seen on the oline the last 2 years.
LLCHESTY
April 22, 2022 at 01:24 am
Actually the restructuring means Bakhtiari is a prime candidate not to be cut after this season. Every restructure makes it more expensive to part with the player early.
Thegreatreynoldo
April 24, 2022 at 05:16 am
Yup. GMs should look at the dead money, not the cap savings. Restructures generally mean more dead money gets pushed into the out years of the contract. It gets more painful to release guys who have been restructured.
Leatherhead
April 21, 2022 at 03:58 pm
Thank you, Lambeauplain, for beating this drum. "Cobbling" has hurt us the last two seasons in our playoff losses. IMO, and as I've stated often, the #1 priority has to be protecting the QB, and that includes getting guys blocked.
The WR we take? The TE we take? They aren't going to do as well if Rodgers is hurried, on the run, or hurt.
Get two horses. That's a start. We could probably fine another guy on Day 3 that could help, too.
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 05:38 pm
Our HC cobbled where not cobbling had worked pretty well last year. Protection is important, but we need weapons more at this point. We also need a viable rushing rotation. Address those at least once first if the draft allows, since we have no other affordable source.
Leatherhead
April 21, 2022 at 07:20 pm
Our line was cobbled all year. No Bakhtiari, then No Myers, then No Jenkins, then Turner got hurt. In the playoffs....the PLAYOFFS....we're starting a beaten up Turner at LT for the first time all season, we put Myers in for the first time in months after his injury, we had Kelly probably playing his last game in the NFL....
So here's my equation: We're allowed 9 OL to dress and we start five. But when you start losing guys, then #6, and #7, and #8 become starters, and that's who is your starter in the playoffs. Nothing will ruin this season faster than not being able to block for Rodgers and Dillon and Jones. Nothing. Nothing makes less sense to me than paying Rodgers a fortune and then not protecting him on the field.
I'm all for the skill positions. I'd like to add a premium, top of the list WR. I'd like to add a Top 100 TE. That still leaves three picks, so you select two offensive linemen on the second day, leaving you with one. I'd use it on a RB, giving us 5 rookies on the offense on game days.
We have 5 picks in the Top 100 and 7 picks between #22 and #140, and a few small trades down could increase those.
That's what I'd do. Trade down, load up offense, strengthen the offensive line. I'd try to win with offense. This defense is certainly good enough to keep things close and if the offense is scoring on about half their possessions, and not turning it over, then we can win.
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 05:30 pm
Edge is a must get; unlikely to get a regular down vet that is good enough to be out 3rd rusher or healthy enough.
A real DL would be next ideally, but I see little hope of that in this draft. S and OL are probably next for depth this year primarily and for the future.
After that, ILB is an area where we need to find cover for Campbell: that means one who can cover as well as play the run. Depth and ideally supplanting Barnes.
I know I’ve skipped TE, I do not like this year’s crop much, sorry, as with DL, that to me downgrades priority in practice. These are positions with better value later. I would take Woods if he makes it to day 3, even late in the 3rd. I wouldn’t trust the earlier TEs to even minimally block well enough to get on the field ahead of Davis, Deguara or Daffney.
After that we could use a speedy running back who can catch, another CB and anyone who can excel at STs, particularly a punt returner and we need a LS, but also gunners. If we take an LS late, I won’t be complaining this year. Some of these may be UDFAs, but competition is going to help here.
We may triple up on WR, especially if one is a returner, and double up on OL and possibly Edge. We will need all our picks and we have the space for them. Competition and look for starters early, role players in the middle and STers late.
.
dobber
April 21, 2022 at 12:52 pm
"After Wide Receiver, What Are the Packers Biggest Needs Heading Into the 2022 NFL Draft?"
...proceeds to list just about every other position group.
PewAuKeeFan
April 21, 2022 at 12:56 pm
"...proceeds to list just about every other position group."
Except the most important one: the Special Teams!
greengold
April 21, 2022 at 10:51 pm
Funny. Pause. Think about it. Pause. Not so funny.
There’s good cases made for a lot of different positions. Mind boggling. At the same time, expecting to be 4 deep with starters at all of them is equal parts desirable and bananas.
Johnblood27
April 21, 2022 at 01:30 pm
The most important NEED at this time is for the draft to get here so we can Stop with all the conjecture and just get on with the business of winning another SUPER BOWL!!!
TarynsEyes
April 21, 2022 at 02:07 pm
As much as I would love your ending, I feel we'll be stuck with the usual outcome at best, though that is unlikely at the moment.
Johnblood27
April 21, 2022 at 05:32 pm
Thanks for that Taryn, now all I have left is the Pony dream...
MainePackFan
April 21, 2022 at 06:18 pm
If your dreams are affected by what Taryn says, you are in for a lot of nightmares ;)
TarynsEyes
April 21, 2022 at 08:53 pm
Yes, reality can be a nightmare for some, as you probably know by experience, especially when it comes to the last three seasons ending, right?
MainePackFan
April 22, 2022 at 03:36 pm
The Packers not winning the Super Bowl is a disappointment not a nightmare. For me, the nightmare would be a team that doesn't compete. In my opinion the Packers will compete. Feel free to continue with your negative takes, Whatever makes you happy.
TarynsEyes
April 21, 2022 at 08:58 pm
Sorry for that, LOL but I'm sure you'll have a happy ending anyway.
Johnblood27
April 22, 2022 at 07:00 am
A Happy Ending? Great, now I gotta tip!
murf7777
April 22, 2022 at 08:13 am
Yes, Taryn, those are the odds for all teams except one named NE for the past 25 years.
PatrickGB
April 21, 2022 at 01:48 pm
Pretty much sums it up. Yet if a player at another position drops and has good value then I am ok with that. Many here think that Tackle is another need. I would not mind a middle linebacker and a ST stud.
Straya
April 21, 2022 at 03:36 pm
Should be some great ILBs available day 2 and I hope one lands in their lap. Would be great to have some depth and an eventual replacement to Campbell.
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 05:35 pm
We need a payer who can cover this season. We have no back up even remotely competent to step into the Campbell role.
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 06:14 pm
Do you think Lloyd would drop and temp Gutey at 28? Lloyd doesn't have the track speed, but he possesses play speed and awareness in space that look elite on film.
I am of the view if the Packers add just a few D prospects (Edge, DL, ILB, or S) to their middle, the O will be getting the ball back early and often.
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 07:11 pm
Sadly I doubt that he will drop, but if he did I’d find him hard to pass up unless an Edge player has had a similar experience or there’s been a huge run on perimeter receivers.
BirdDogUni
April 21, 2022 at 06:23 pm
I think we all need a "payer..." (I know I do!) ;P
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 07:12 pm
Or a prayer perhaps
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 22, 2022 at 12:39 am
CW, check out Christian Harris. Converted cornerback (so you know he has coverage skills) with 4.44 speed who is also the best pure inside linebacker in this draft by a wide margain. I would be absolutely thrilled if they drafted him in the 2nd round but i think all the mock drafts got it wrong. Hes just too good to fall out of the 1st round. Patrick Queen was a 1st rounder and Harris puts him to shame.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 07:42 am
He’d have to clear medicals on his spinal injury… that’s what’s dropping this über talented player.
Coldworld
April 22, 2022 at 04:01 pm
And we are among the most conservative with injuries like that.
albert999
April 21, 2022 at 01:55 pm
I’d like to see them take QB Sam Howell from North Carolina in a later round….might sound crazy but look into this kid🤷🏼
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2022 at 03:36 pm
Ranked in the 30s, some have him going in the First Round.
albert999
April 21, 2022 at 01:57 pm
I think Howell slides to maybe 3rd round at that round he’d be a steal
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 05:37 pm
I really think we have to use our picks on players who can contribute now as starters, role players and on STs. That’s a steal I am willing to pass up in a win it all year that we have to fuel from the draft.
MainePackFan
April 21, 2022 at 06:25 pm
Agreed. If they were to trade Love I can see grabbing a QB. but the last thing this team needs, is to add a QB if JL remains a Packer.
Minniman
April 21, 2022 at 02:14 pm
The draft should be about turning as many picks into starting or serviceable NFL players - after that, use FA to complete the roster.
"Needs" that get 'solved' long term in the draft are 50% luck. Always, always go BPA in the draft and supplement true "needs" with proven role players.
As Dobber alluded to above, every position is essentially only an injury or off-season away from being a "need".
On a side note: I'm re-posting something that I posted yesterday on the Confessions article (as it was written late and buried deep in the thread).
Can anyone who's extensively researched Chris Olave explain why in the OSU vs Nebraska game (the one where Garrett Wilson was out) why Olave still only saw his average 7 catches per game (for 61 yds) - and the sophomore Jaxon Smith-Njigba had 15 (for 240 yards)?
This is a concern to me. I'd have expected Olave to be the WR1 in that game and get the most targets. Its sobering to see that this was not the case. I'd love to see a distribution of the targets for that game (and the season, I guess) to see where his strength areas are.
Having not been WR1 in college, it's a legitimate risk to think that he'll do that in the pros.
albert999
April 21, 2022 at 02:29 pm
Very interesting Olave game stat????
Minniman
April 21, 2022 at 03:00 pm
Looking at the stats, in the last 5 games of last season Smith-Njigba ascended to become WR1 at OSU over Wilson and Olave…… so the second year guy overtook two 3rd year guys. He starts averaging 12 catches per game and each of these guys stay at about 7.
Also note that Alabama’s Jameson Winston played at OSU in 2019 and 2020 with these guys, but transferred last year to Alabama. Maybe he saw the writing on the wall with Smith-Njigba ascending?
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2022 at 02:46 pm
I am re-working the board and clearing the fog from my brain after inundating the neural dendrites with draft mockery and derision. I trust my eyes that watched some of these guys perform for three years. I will rank Pierce over Burks. He runs the Back Shoulder route and plucks the ball on contested throws with 4.4 speed. Watson runs like a pro receiver and the Jet sweep motion runs are flawless. Olave and company are in the top 15, so look to Pierce and/or Watson to be in the WR room. Those deriding Pierce's ability and his resemblance to Jordy's game are wearing painted shades. Those are my top two.
Handsback
April 21, 2022 at 06:19 pm
I previously posted that scouts weren't that happy about the top WRs in this year's class. They like their receivers to be around 6' 200 pounds with great body control, quick feet and good command of the NFL route tree. Too many are like Olave, Williams and Wilson.
Smith-Njigba is in JaMarr Chase's class as a top five pick. Nobody could cover him in high school and appears the same in college.
The other issue is that the Packer coaches want their receivers to block! So I see Green Bay getting multiple WRs but starting in the second round.
Minniman
April 21, 2022 at 08:00 pm
Smith-Njigba is a beast - he became the go to guy at OSU ahead of both Wilson and Olave. He'd see 13-15 catches a game (compared to the other 2 at about 7 each).
If the draft doesn't fall well for the Packers I wouldn't be averse for them to either draft BPA or trading one of the R1's for a R1 next year (plus another pick this year - obviously) and considering him next year....... and filling the Wr2/3/4 slots with this years crop.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2022 at 09:59 pm
They should gather picks in the high second with a trade down if the right Offers are presented . The #22 will be tempting to some teams, but the return would need to add premium value. Otherwise, I will agree with one of Stockholder's scenarios and snag Watson over Burks with the #22. The #28 can go DT, OT, EDGE or trade out if you secure the #22 and want more picks with equivalent value from the second into the high fourth. The second rd this year is just like mining round two of the 2020 draft, tons of talent.
murf7777
April 22, 2022 at 08:22 am
The more I look at these WR’s the more confused I get over which one to take. What that tells me is to take them in the second round. Yes, it might make sense to trade a one and move down into the top of the second and take a WR there. Get an extra 3 or lower 2.
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 06:19 pm
Watch the Michigan State game. Your concerns will be soothed. The game was over after the first quarter with Olave getting 140 yards and two TDs. His routes were sublime. Spartan jockstraps all over the field at all 3 levels.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2022 at 10:01 pm
Some have him off the board before Wilson.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 22, 2022 at 12:42 am
Because Olave is highly overrated. Might be the most overrated player in this draft. I dont think Olave should be drafted anywhere near the 1st round.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 10:38 am
I totally agree with you on this, and at the same time, there is a place open on our roster for a WR who does exactly what Olave is really good at: getting open, moving chains and scoring.
I'm so totally wide open right now to many different directions Gutekunst can take in this draft. As long as he doesn't fuck it up.
Coldworld
April 22, 2022 at 04:06 pm
I am somewhat concerned that Olave has not run a 3 cone either at the combine or his pro day. He’s a poor jumper, slender build type. For him to thrive, he has to have elite short area agility and explosiveness. Against NFL opposition, good routes and straight line speed with his frame and lack of vertical won’t cut it as a regular contributor.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 05:57 am
Is Tyrek Hill a jumper? Marvin Harrison? QB has to hit these guys at the spot or on the move.
HarryHodag
April 21, 2022 at 02:20 pm
I could see the fans start to lose it if the Packers draft someone other than a WR with their first pick. I think one of the top four will be a WR, not necessarily pick #22. If one of the top edge rushers is still there that could be their first pick. #28-wide receiver, second rounders tight end and offensive lineman. Third round wide receiver.
A report this week found a scout saysing that the first 12 picks this year are not as good as last year but picks 13 through 96 are far superior to past drafts. This makes me think Gute won't trade up.
Wide receiver, edge and tight end are the top needs.
beerandbrats
April 21, 2022 at 02:45 pm
Thanks Gil, great write up! The Packers have lots of needs to fill. Let's hope they nail it in this draft! We have people who can play RT but we don't have a starting RT. I believe finding a starting RT should be one of the priorities in this draft.
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 05:48 pm
I am fine with Nijman and later Nijman/Jenkins. This angst about moving from left to right is a mirage. Nijman is one powerful guy and far more athletic than most LTs, let alone RTs and played at RT for two years in College. We need depth and future development not an immediate starter (interim or permanent).
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 06:27 pm
Yes...I get mildly irked when columnists opine Nijman will have a chance to compete at RT, but is a backup, but all other 4 spots are locked.
I was intrigued when Yosh was signed as an UDFA due to his huge RAS and that he had only played OT for 4 years after playing D in high school.
He has not disappointed on the field since!
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 07:21 pm
He was athletically the best tackle in his class but the rumor was that he was untrainable. His college just let him win on sheer physical dominance, although “coaching sources” denied that. He had essentially no technique. It looks like he is in fact trainable, based on what I saw. He’s probably a better physical prospect than any tackle in this draft as well.
Tony Pauline: “When you ask the “create a football player machine” to make an offensive tackle, it comes out looking like Nijman. A first off the bus player, Nijman looks the part and has physical traits he should be able to win with. With that said, Njman has substantial technical improvements needed to have a chance at the next level. As it stands, his balance, footwork and hand combating are well below desired standards. He may hear his name called just because of his prototypical measurables, but Nijman has a long way to go.”
Kudos to Gute and the coaches, but Nijman has a ton of upside.
Leatherhead
April 21, 2022 at 02:55 pm
One more time.
We play 2.5 defensive linemen per snap. Usually 3 on first down and short yardage, 2 on other downs. In a game with 66 snaps, that means we need 165 snaps per game from our defensive line.
Clark is our main dog, and we want him on the field, but also rested enough to be a factor in the 4th quarter. So you'd put him down for about 50 snaps a game.
Slaton will play on first downs and short yardage, mostly. Figure another 30 snaps. Figure Lowry and Reed split about 80 snaps. That leaves us at 160. Now, if we had another guy, we could reduce snaps for Lowry or Reed. You don't want to reduce Clark's snaps.
I just think that if we're "all-in", a 5th defensive lineman isn't that much of a "need". More like a "want".
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 05:42 pm
Reed is a one year deal. Lowry may not be with us next year either. We need pipeline there. In this draft, if there is value at DL, it’s likely third day anyway.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2022 at 10:18 pm
Getting a guy in the fourth round would be good value, even Alex Wright. I like the two OTs in the second round and the fourth/fifth as all the top guys go by mid-first. I like Lucas anyway, as he has stance , knee bend and footwork to go with his 4.9 forty. He's a wide zone guy and good in pass pro. A little more size than Raimann to take the RT spot as Bulaga did as a Greenhorn, and Clifton, Tauscher, Bhak , all down the line....Myers, Newman. That's a big deal for these two guys to fill in right off the bat in 2021. They compete.
Guam
April 21, 2022 at 10:47 pm
Your logic is starting to escape me LH. You have been beating the drum that we need to go nine deep on the O-line because of the potential for injury. Yet without injury the Packers rarely play anyone other than their five starters on the O-line. So we keep four O-line reserves that rarely play unless injury happens so we can insure the offense functions well and Rodgers is protected.
Now on defense you are trying to convince me that the Packers normally rotate four guys (Clark, Lowery, Slaton and Reed), and really don't need any injury reserves ("a 5th defensive lineman isn't that much of a need"). Huh? Doesn't the D-line deserve just as much injury depth as the O-line? The D-line is just as important to the functioning of the defense as the O-line is to the offense. A fifth defensive lineman is just as much of a need as at least the 7th and 8th offensive linemen.
Leatherhead
April 22, 2022 at 10:01 am
Guam, we aren't losing playoff games because of lack of quality depth on the defensive line, are we? I mean, last year, our defense stomped SF but our offense didn't do much. The year before, we held Tampa to 65 yards rushing and pressured Brady into three turnovers and a passer rating in the 70s.
We are losing playoff games, at least in part, because our cobbled together line can't control the LOS. The MVP, Adams, Jones, Dillon......didn't have the blocking that we need.
You're talking about needing a 5th defensive lineman; I'm talking about needing multiple offensive linemen.
We win with offense. That's who we are. We control the clock (first in the league in time of possession) and put enough points on the board, usually, to win. That's not going to happen without blocking.
Clark, Lowry, Reed, and Slaton are probably a better group than Clark, Lowry, Lancaster and Keke, which has been plenty good enough to win with the last couple of years. But if we can't protect Rodgers and open holes in the run game, we're going to have a crappy season.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 10:23 am
Very interesting, but SACKS TAKEN, as a Vegas odds favorite determining factor in who will win or lose a football game proved to be true here.
Rodgers was sacked 5 times, Garoppolo 4. SF was equally as bad as the Packers that day in 3rd down efficiency, 4 of 11 to our 5 of 12.
SF also had 9 more rushing attempts than did GB. How much time does that take off the clock??? Keeping the Packers O stuck on the sidelines?
The case could be made based on this alone that we need to add BOTH OL and EDGE/DL. Maybe an ILB who knows how to get on the QB, or a S...
Coldworld
April 22, 2022 at 04:10 pm
Might have helped if we had played the O line that was working not got cute and not only moved them around but reinserted Myers who had barely played. That one is on the coaches.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 07:47 am
This is ridiculous. ALL-IN is the biggest joke in town. ALL-IN with what, in 2022? “Last Dance,” was last year… The real improbability of ULTIMATE success here, winning the Super Bowl, is immense. Knowing what we know…?
Draft the best players for your team. The entire roster is filled with holes, and uncertainty regarding players returning from significant injury abounds. Jaire’s shoulder? Bak’s knee? Tonyan’s knee? Deguara’s knee? Jenkins’ knee?
Lowry is a joke and needs to be replaced. Reed on a one year deal. Slaton entering his Sophomore year, and, what can we count on again? At 3-Tech?
Clark is exceptional there when he’s got someone else to take the Nose. Slaton? Yes. Beyond that?
The smart play could be spending R1 picks on the big fellas, in the trenches, both sides of the ball. I’d flip if we landed Penning 22 and Jones at 28. Hell, I’d be elated is we followed that by popping Kinnard at 53 & Mathis at 59…
I’d also flip if we somehow landed George Karlaftis at 22, Lewis Cine at 28. Wyatt 22 and Jalen Pitre 28…. There are many important positions to address on this team, not just OL. Not just WR.
I’ll be thrilled if Gutekunst adds phenomenal players to our roster, no matter the position. Truth is, we need them everywhere.
I seriously don’t care if we take Pickens 22 and London 28… whatever. The draft is loaded with solid talents - but, we do have some specific needs. Problem for the Packers is we can identify those at nearly every position.
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2022 at 07:03 am
Hah! Prepare for a storm of downvotes! :-D
However, I would be very happy with your scenario.
Adding Jones (the next Kenny Clark?) and Mathis (highly underrated in my opinion) would be a tremendous upgrade to the DL.
Penning and Kinnard would make our OL a GREAT run-blocking line for years.
I'm a big fan of some of the WRs who might still be there in 3-7. I think Shakir will go before 92, but Bo Melton, Velus Jones, etc. can be enough after the addition of Sammy Watkins.
The Wolf/Thompson "only so many big guys" philosophy lives on!
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2022 at 07:10 am
Just savoring the idea of Mathis on the nose, flanked by Clark and Jones, with Gary and Smith holding the edges. MMMmmmm...
I love defenses that collapse pockets play after play. Add a couple of ballhawks in the backfield and watch the interceptions pile up.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 07:09 am
Totally agree, PEO. Hell, I’ve even come around to GB taking Perkins 22!!! We need the help everywhere, but “God only made so many of those big fellas.”
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2022 at 07:17 am
Perkins?
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 07:52 am
Perkins. Pickens. Whatever…!!! Lol
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2022 at 08:02 am
Pickens SOUNDED the most like Perkins, but combined with the "big fellas" comment, I was very confused! :-D
I'm 65, so I sympathize. :-D
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 06:13 am
Worthy, Kyrie Thornton, Datone Jones, Neal, Junius , Coston, Jeremy Thompson, Barbre, Sherrod, Spriggs....the Creator makes them, but you have to pick'em. He did make a mistake letting Lawrence Guy slide away and I liked Breno.
Leatherhead
April 22, 2022 at 10:06 am
I don't think the entire roster is full of holes.
Our starting secondary is one of the best in the league. Our starting OLBs are pretty good. Campbell is pretty good. Clark is pretty good. Jones and Dillon and Rodgers are pretty good.
We could start the season with what we have right now and we'd be OK, as long as nobody got hurt. In fact, I've been watching this team since Lombardi and I think the team is one of the very strongest we've ever had.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 10:34 am
That's funny, and I'm not attempting anything untoward, LH, but 4 of the 5 positions you just listed have no real quality backups in case someone gets injured...
Sound familiar?
What about TE? Safety? And, if we should lose any of Gary, Smith, Amos, Savage, Clark or Campbell to injury, we're screwed. Add to that, we do need some upgrades. Barnes screams out here to be upgraded.
Best players regardless of position is looking more appealing to me now more than in any draft we've had, quite frankly.
Leatherhead
April 22, 2022 at 10:48 am
Because if we lose a starter on defense, we'll limp along as best we can. We managed without Alexander. We managed without Z. We've managed without Clark, but IF we can't protect Rodgers and open holes in the run game, it's going to be a long season. That's why I think the Oline is the biggest priority.
Two years in a row I've watched our season end because the offense couldn't get it done, and a big part of that was the cobbled together line.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 11:08 am
It doesn't work that way...
Man, I'm not saying we shouldn't hit OT with the best talent we can add. Come on.
We didn't have anything behind Gary and Preston LAST year. Our season is completely F'd if we don't add quality EDGE as much as it is if we don't add quality OT, as much as it is if we don't add a quality 3-Tech... the list is endless is this regard.
No one is questioning what happens if Bak gets hurt, or Yosh, or Runyan... Is it any different if people are throwing on us at will - putting our secondary on a hotplate because we lose Gary, or Smith? A lot of positions calling out, no? ZERO pass rush will kill even the best CBs and Safeties.
It sounds like you're willing to plan for all of this risk management on OL, but no where else.
Trading down out of 28? Hell yes, if Gutekunst can swing it. I'd even consider trading out of both, quite frankly, and I never thought I'd say that. Argued against doing just that early on in these discussions. I can see the value of doing so, after having learned more about the players in this draft.
Other teams see the value early R2-early R3 though, and working a deal that delivers will require teams coveting certain players at the 22 and 28. We'll see.
Coldworld
April 22, 2022 at 04:20 pm
We have no depth at most positions and what we have is of dubious quality at present: they’ve not been good enough to force snaps or even to get any and few have stood out on STs. Some might this season, but we need to realize that injuries happen to ZDL, ILBs etc. We can’t afford not to develop depth at Edge, S, DL and ILB and we still need bodies at WR. We need to focus on that and not get caught up in spending high capital on OL, the mid rounds will do just fine. We need additional depth where we need starters or regular snaps at other positions and we can’t rely on hitting every pick as some seem to envisage.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 11:12 am
Not entirely. A big reason was SF running the ball more than us, AGAIN, and SF having premiere EDGE players like Armstead and Bosa.
Imagine, if Rodgers didn't get sacked 5 times, Davante might have had 5 more receptions... FFS. This is all ridiculous. We have all kinds of positions to address. OT is one of them, just like WR is one of them...
Coldworld
April 22, 2022 at 04:23 pm
Davante was heavily covered after the first drive with other catchers wide open on many occasions while Rodgers held the ball. That’s despite a howler of a decision on the O Line personnel and refusing to try running it. This is a mostly blind alley you are running down.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 06:33 am
Juszczyk as the Fullback and an All -Pro TE like Kittle made the difference along with a couple Key Plays by Deebo. When You get into the playoffs, you will need a power running game regardless of the weather. No Tonyan, No Fullback. Lewis could not deliver and they need a guy to replace him.
Leatherhead
April 22, 2022 at 11:38 am
Please do not say that Lowry is a joke who needs to be replaced. It's inaccurate, and it's insulting .
He shows up every day for work. He doesn't miss games, rarely misses practices. He's Northwestern smart. He's renegotiated his deal, twice, so he could stay with the team and free up money for help.
He doesn't embarass the team with antics or bad behavior. He doesn't make derogatory comments about the organization, the fans, or the city of Green Bay.
Moreover, the "Clark-Lowry Era" with help from Lancaster, Keke, and now Slaton.....has actually been pretty effective over the last three seasons.
You should take another look at what Lowry brings. It's significant.
greengold
April 22, 2022 at 12:29 pm
The point is, there is a big, big, big difference between Dean Lowry's 15.0 sacks in 6 seasons and Arik Armstead's 26.5 sacks during that same span. 22 TFL vs. 37 TFL. Pretty big difference.
Last season was Lowry's best with 5 sacks, and I attribute that more to bringing in DT TJ Slaton, who takes some of the insane reps off, dropping his snap counts from in the 70% range to 58% last year.
DL in a solid rotation play better, and when over extended in snap% become less effective.
There's no comparison. Adding better pass rush should be a top priority like OT and WR. Bosa had 15.5 sacks last year. Maybe EDGE George Karlaftis is there at 22, and I'd have no problem with the Packers taking him. Same with Devonte Wyatt or Travis Jones, if they feel it's the right thing to do.
Coldworld
April 22, 2022 at 04:29 pm
Lowry is an average to poor player of the run who can be disruptive in the passing game if he has a weak opposite number or has Kenny Clark pulling all the attention. He’d be a good number 4 DL, but he’s paid as and used as a second. He’s reliable and been healthy but his presence has meant we don’t get better.
If we improve this year it’s likely because Slaton or others are eating into his snaps, especially in the run game. Ironically that may actually improve his effectiveness. Credit Bary for getting more out of him and Clark than Pettine, but let’s not go overboard.
jannesbjornson
April 23, 2022 at 06:40 am
I agree, he's a five tech with effort for passing downs. A liability vs the run.
Leatherhead
April 22, 2022 at 11:38 am
double
Coldworld
April 22, 2022 at 04:12 pm
Then why the heck did we retain Rodgers GG?
Straya
April 21, 2022 at 03:33 pm
With a geriatric QB, injury clouds hanging over Bakh and Jenkins, and the loss of Turner, I reckon tackle is as big a priority as reciever this season.
Having a Drake London or a Chris Olave downfield wont be much help if Rodgers spends most of the day on the turf.
stockholder
April 21, 2022 at 03:43 pm
Face it. Gutey can't change his spots. Forget the DL. And since he has to replace Burks ,Z. Smith, and Whitney. I'm going to put it right out there. Edge will be given the highest priority. But does he need to trade up. IMO. NO! Watson can stretch the defense. @22. Next. Ebiketie is moving up. While Ojabo is moving down. Either one works. Because P. Smith is at that age for rotation. So- No matter how much I want to see this offense the most feared in the NFL. The players available; Just can't separate enough to suit me. They're a bigger gamble than BPA @edge. Then there is safety. Who are we replacing? I say later, not early. And these Tes are good at something, but not much of anything. Wait should be the plan. And last is the OL. I prefer a pulling guard. Not a beached whale. After Spriggs. It's just plain wrong; not to give someone their chance. So there's the problem. Draft and replace for next year. Or draft the Traitors.
TxPackFan
April 21, 2022 at 04:09 pm
If the Packers drafted a LB like Devin Lloyd or Chad Muma to pair with Campbell and a big, fat, space/blocker eating DT like Jordan Davis or Travis Jones to keep the LBs clean, we would have a generationally elite defense. When was the last time a team allowed only single digit scoring average for a season? That's the kind of elite I'm taking about. We would literally be elite at every single position on the defense. Nobody would be able to run on us. Nobody would be able to throw on us. We would only be giving up a couple field goals a game and that's it. If we spent 2 of our 4 picks in the first 2 rounds like this, it wouldn't matter what the other two were, our defense would have us Super Bowl bound. So let's say add a WR and an Edge as the other two. Might go undefeated.
PackEyedOptimist
April 21, 2022 at 04:16 pm
If we didn't pick up Reed, I'd be all-in on a DT like Davis, Wyatt, Jones, or Hall, but I really feel like our greatest need on defense is an ILB and/or "STAR" type DB. Maybe a guy who could both well, like Nakobe Dean, Chad Muma, Daxton Hill, or Jaquon Brisker.
Similarly, Watkins makes WR less of a "need" but still a place we should invest.
If a great OT (or G/T guy like Kenyon Green) is there as BPA, you have to consider him.
There are some pretty good EDge candidates who I think will be available at 53/59, and since we're talking a back-up position this year (though possibly starter in a year or two), getting a guy with flaws but upside is perfect.
I really believe in BPA with an eye on our current roster--as Ted Thompson said, you should draft players who you think have a solid chance at beating out someone who is already on your roster. That was his approach to BPA, and I agree with it. That's the "need" element.
If BG has a QB available who he thinks can beat out Jordan Love, I'd be fine with that selection. The coaches/GM know much more about how good or bad our bottom of the roster is. Maybe they don't think any TE in this draft is clearly better than Tyler Davis. Maybe they really believe in where Shemar Jean-Charles will be this year.
I look forward to their picks and explanations.
TxPackFan
April 21, 2022 at 04:36 pm
100% agree. But as an FYI, Wyatt has at least 4 domestic violence incidents since he was 18...and he's 24. He's off my board completely. I LOVE Davis but he probably goes too early for us. I also love Jones and we have a legit shot at him. Get him and one of the top LBs to pair with Campbell and we'll have a once in a generation defense. Fill in edge and WR with the other two picks in the top 2 rounds. Then best player the rest of the way.
(Although I would love to get Kevin Austin to add to the receiver room)
Johnblood27
April 21, 2022 at 05:41 pm
Hey, lay off Wyatt, maybe his ole lady was askin' for it!
Boyz will be boyz... you need to stick to the important questions, can he ball???
Welcome to the Rodger Goodell NFL baby! You don't hafta like it, but ya better be aware of it!
PackEyedOptimist
April 21, 2022 at 08:05 pm
TPF, I agree about Wyatt, but it's possible the Packers know things that would change my mind about him.
I really like Jones; he reminds me a lot of Kenny Clark (who is also not getting younger).
There are a boatload of WRs I like in this draft; I think there will even be good UDFAs.
LLCHESTY
April 22, 2022 at 01:54 am
I think the Kenny Clark comparisons are fair for Jones. Who knows if he'll fulfill his promise but he may have more pass rush upside. He's an inch taller with two inch longer arms and 10 lbs heavier than Clark was coming out. The really intriguing thing with him is that 7.33 3-cone. He's got 50 lbs on Gary and Gary ran a 7.26. That points to Jones having potential as a 3T with the length to play 5T too. He is not just a NT. I really like Winfrey but I think Jones would make a solid rotation on passing downs with Clark and Reed in sub package while also being able to take snaps at NT and 5T.
I read that Jones was 360 lbs when he got to Connecticut. He's done a great job reshaping his body. Makes me wonder if he could get down to 315 while keeping his strength. Then you're talking a real potential disruptor as a big 3T down the road.
stockholder
April 21, 2022 at 04:40 pm
You Can consider anybody. But the best won't fit beyond the first rd. You're right about Watkins. It Takes the Need away. ( For both WR picks in the first rd.) But it also puts you in a draft and develop at WR. ( As Opposed to stretching the defense with pure speed. ) And no one after the first rd will start. You're now in danger of someone jumping for that last WR. Because after @50. (You'll get a Want a Be. ) So taking Davis gives you a NT. And Clark can move. But who gets the @28 if your WRs are gone? OL.? Really; after Gutey found such great replacements. The last chance for an Edge player is @28. And your best LBs are gone before @50 again. Unless you get Lucky. And thats what @52 And @59 are all about. LUCK!
PackEyedOptimist
April 21, 2022 at 07:57 pm
Yeah, SH, luck is a huge part of the draft. You make educated guesses, but it's impossible to know what the other GMs are thinking. The draft websites are always only half right, and this year will be worse than usual.
That's why I'm all for "Ted's BPA."
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 06:32 pm
With Hill, Brisker or Pitre you get a threefer...all three are labeled as safeties who can play either FS, even SS. All three can play Barry's Star Role...they did it in college. And all three have the skills to play CB, if called on.
BAMABADGER
April 21, 2022 at 05:32 pm
1) Packers need a #1 WR with the loss of DA. 2) Defense needs IDL and ILB serious improvement. Pressure up the middle supercedes drafting an Edge. 3) TE and O-linemen in mid-rounds. 4) Would love a ST return specialist in later rounds.
SpikeHyzer
April 21, 2022 at 05:39 pm
I'd put DL after EDGE because it could make the D elite.
The rest of the order is about right.
MooPack
April 21, 2022 at 06:29 pm
My order of position needs.
1: WRx
2: RT
3: Power Edge
4: S/slot CB
5: ILB
6: TE
My prospects to fill those needs.
1: Christian Watson
2: Abe Lucas
3: George Karlaftis
4: Dax Hill
5: Troy Andersen
6: Ruckert, Woods, or Kolar
Round to get those prospects.
1-22: Dax Hill
1-28: Christian Watson
2-53: Troy Andersen
2-59: Abe Lucas
3-92: one of the TE’s or Edge Sam Williams
Would fill 5 of top 6. Can’t get them all in first three rounds. Edge is my achilles in this draft or TE.
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 07:19 pm
Edge is so deep in this class...and after Gary and Smith, the Packer depth is weak. I think Gutey will target a top game day rotational OLB/Edge in the first two days...and possibly another late. The current depth needs improvement.
MooPack
April 21, 2022 at 09:11 pm
I agree with you to a point. I think the top 5 Edges are going to be off the board. Karlaftis is close. After those top 5 is a drop off to second tier or are injured. Personally I think the top four prospects I have picked in rounds 1 and 2 will have more impact than the Edges that are left. Sam Williams in the 3rd would be one of those we could get, depending on how they feel about his character, that could be as good or better than some rated higher. That's my conundrum. Thanks LP.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2022 at 10:27 pm
I don't think he will last until the third.
MooPack
April 21, 2022 at 10:31 pm
You're probably right, at least not until #92. Character concerns will determine where he goes.
Since'61
April 21, 2022 at 07:35 pm
Protect our QB, harass the opposing QB. Making that happen and your team wins most of their games. Therefore our priorities including WR should be OL and EDGE. 2 WRs, OL and Edge for our first 4 picks. Follow them with a DL and a TE. Thanks, Since '61
MarkinMadison
April 21, 2022 at 07:41 pm
This draft is rich in round 2 to about the middle of round 3. I wouldn't mind seeing a trade back at 22 or 28 if the price is right and the value sitting on the board is wrong.
I'd like to see a WR in round 1, and a second one later. They need to add a return specialist. Velus Jones Jr. might be the best prospect that has some potential utility in the Packers' scheme on offense.
I'd like to see a 3-tech in round 2. There is a great Packers Daily on IDL right now. I highly recommend listening in.
They need to pick up a safety, partly for this year and mostly for next year. There are several good ones that can be found throughout the first four rounds. I don't think they need to reach.
Same with TE. I'd love to see a stud TE like McBride, but there are several good ones. Jelani Woods is a freak. Mismatch nightmare.
I think getting a quality tackle is a must. I like Waletzko a lot. There are other options that should be available in rounds 1-4. The Packers may be the best team in the NFL at identifying OL in mid and late rounds. They will add 3 OL before it is all over.
pantz_bURp
April 21, 2022 at 07:56 pm
"After Wide Receiver, What Are the Packers Biggest Needs Heading Into the 2022 NFL Draft?"
A willing trade partner to take on #12? Then we call said team because the WRs will be more willing to come to a travel destination like the Green Bay area.
🎤 drop
LambeauPlain
April 21, 2022 at 08:00 pm
Desean Jackson may not retire after all...if he can play for a playoff contender with an elite QB...he said the Packers would work. 35 years old. He claims he can still take the top off the D. But 2021 was not a highlight reel!
MarkinMadison
April 21, 2022 at 09:32 pm
He averaged over 20 yards per catch in 2021....
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 11:46 pm
How many old or oft injured receivers can we collect on a roster?
murf7777
April 22, 2022 at 08:35 am
2
LLCHESTY
April 22, 2022 at 02:02 am
I think he's an option if somehow they miss on all the speedster WRs in this draft. But the WR rebuild is a two year project and it's not a good idea to push it all onto next year. Lazard, Cobb and Watkins could all be gone and they could be looking to replace Amari too.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 21, 2022 at 08:13 pm
It is funny because I look at this a little differently. Yes, the Packers have a need for top talent at WR, and TE. No doubt about it!
However, I'm convinced the Packers could get very good WR's in round 2, or else take one in round 2, and another in round 3. Absolutely convinced of this from analyzing WR's, as well as maybe 75 mock draft simulators attempts.
However, the talented DL, and Edge are not there even at 53 and 59. Without question Gutey has to see how the draft falls but I'm convinced the Packers should go:
Round 1: DL and Edge (the order doesn't matter)
Round 2: At #53 absolutely have to take a top rated WR such as Pickens or Watson, or Skyyy. At 59 either another WR like Metchie, Tolbert, Pierce, Kahlil, Austin, otherwise Trey McBride. If not a TE, I'd take an OT.
Round 3: Regardless of whether an OT was taken in round 2, I would take another OL here. For whatever reason talented OL appear available much later than top DL, and Edge.
Just don't feel the Pack needs a WR in round 1 unless one of the top receivers like Garrett, Jameson, or possibly Olave fell to them at 22. Draft the top rated Edge, and DL in round 1 unless a very talented player at another position nose dived based on how draft went. Be ready Gutey! This is a critical draft! Don't be trading draft capital but I can see a move up in round 2.
I am a huge Pickens fan. Going to be a star! Also, super like Kahlil!
stockholder
April 21, 2022 at 08:33 pm
Not one of your Wrs have the ability to separate from the out side. Except Watson. Olave playing speed is slower than his 40. He makes up for it running routes. ( Best Candidate for Concussion protocols.) Pickens is in the 40 - 48 range. I wouldn't reach.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 21, 2022 at 09:15 pm
SH,
Appreciate your thoughts but respectfully disagree with you SH. Sammy runs a 4.43. Olave runs 4.39. Pickens under 4.4, Watson a 4.36. Plus, there are WRs much faster available later in draft such as Thornton at 4.28, Velsus at 3.7, Austin 4.32, etc. My point...there are many good WRs available after round 1, and even after round 2. Grab the talented big bodies high in round 1. The difference makers!
stockholder
April 22, 2022 at 06:26 am
Those weren't my opinions. Just something I picked up on them from professionals. Watson, and Austin were the two that could, in the senior Bowl. CBs are just as fast.
MarkinMadison
April 21, 2022 at 09:55 pm
I think the WRs that fit the Packers metrics are London, Pickens and Pierce. Depending on who you believe London is a 1st-rounder and Pickens is borderline. I've seen it said that Pierce is stiff but I haven't looked at his film and don't know if I would really see it if I did. So to me, I think you have to grab London or Pickens in the first if you can get either of them, because beyond that I'm not sure who else really fits.
I agree with you about Edge. There are a lot of great edge prospects but the 50s might be too late.
I think there are good quality DIs who will be available at the end of the 2nd or later who will fit what the Packers want to do better than some of the more highly ranked guys. And if you believe Slayton will develop you don't need another 325+ lb. DT. You are really looking for a running mate for Clark, especially on passing downs. A guy who can replace and exceed Lowry. Mathis fits the bill really well. Walter Football is projecting him to go in the 3rd or 4th round. He had 53 tackles and 9 sacks last year. Big enough to handle the run but gives you some pass rush too. Kind of like Kenny Clark. This, in a nutshell is the argument the guys on Packers Daily made and I think there is a lot of truth to it.
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 11:52 pm
It’s who you get, not where you get them in a very unpredictable draft. I agree that we might end up with no receivers in round one, if the perimeter types aren’t all being snapped up and an edge, safety, DL falls and has better value at both picks. Sorry I’m not a believer that we need an OL in the first unless there’s a crazy slide. Plenty in rounds 3-5.
I still don’t rule out dropping back if not and a number of rated receivers remain at 28. There are a lot of round 1/2 types In This draft, perhaps more than usual, from early teens maybe in to the top of round 3. We have holes and we then have areas where competition can only help us. Plenty of room for using our picks.
BirdDogUni
April 21, 2022 at 11:34 pm
"It’s who you get, not where you get them in a very unpredictable draft."
I totally agree with you on this Cw... PFF came out with new rankings and they're crazy as all get out. They were even talking on NFL Network today about how wildly different guys are ranking different guys. Your point about OL is a good one.
Even if an OT were to slip to us, he may not be as right for our scheme as the OT Gutey has slotted in the 3rd or 4th round.
Personally, I don't think Olave is even in our top 22. He's small, slight, weak, and won't be much help blocking in the run game. If I had to bet right now, I would bet Pickens is higher on GB's board than Olave. I think Burks would be ahead of Olave on our big board.
RBs, I'm sure we have them ranked and on our board in order of importance for our needs and scheme, which will leave maybe 50 percent of them off our board completely.
I am sure they have several ways to narrow down how they come to the decisions on who they draft. IDK if they have their 5 favorite guys at each position for each pick in the draft or if they truly have them listed in a BPA format or if they cross-reference several different criteria? (I wish I did, I think that would be wickedly interesting.)
I wonder if they have a computer team somewhere predicting each teams pick once the previous team has made their pick? I am sure some of the younger guys have something like that and some of the older guys it wouldn't matter, because they're going to do what they do, no matter what.
I would love to hear the debates while every team is actually on the clock. Would love to hear the reasoning for one coach making a pitch for one guy and another guy making a pitch for another player. Like OCs and DCs arguing which is more important, the OT or IDL at 53, or WR or S at 59.
Kind of like we argue, but they actually know WT% they're talking about and actually have a chance of influencing the decisions. ; )
Going to be a free-for-all next Thursday night. Can't wait.
Coldworld
April 21, 2022 at 11:55 pm
Then Gute trades back twice …
MarkinMadison
April 22, 2022 at 07:33 am
I wouldn't throw my beer at the TV if he did.
BirdDogUni
April 22, 2022 at 05:40 pm
I kind of hope he does. Especially if he picks up picks in next year's draft. (We may need them?)
murf7777
April 22, 2022 at 08:39 am
I’m with you Knock regarding the WR’s. I don’t see a lot of difference amongst the top 10-15 Wr’s and with a 50+ bust rate in round one and only about a 43% in round 2 for WR’s, based on a study I read, it makes sense to take others and load up on 2 in round 2 and 3.
stockholder
April 21, 2022 at 08:12 pm
You either try for LBs. Or you get Winfrey and Leal. You either Take Watson. Or you Get Pickens. McBride Or Ojabo? Sam Williams And
Troy Anderson are in low 80s now. Pierce in 70s.
#22. Christian Watson. WR. ND state
#28. Arnold Ebiketie. LB. Penn st.
#53. David Ojabo. LB. MICH.
#59. LEO Chenal. LB. WI
#92. Carson Strong. QB. Nevada
#132. Cole Strange. G. Chattanooga
#140. Tycen Anderson. S. Toledo
#171. Matt Araiza. P/PK SD State
#228. Kevin Austin. WR ND
#249. Dane Belton. DB. Iowa
#258. Micah McFadden. LB. IND.
cnich290
April 22, 2022 at 01:26 am
No George Pickens love?
stockholder
April 22, 2022 at 06:29 am
He's boom or Bust. Past injuries! Hasn't played a full season without missing time. He's at 40 and considered a reach for the first rd.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 22, 2022 at 08:31 am
SH,
I think all of us will be surprised how high Pickens ends up being taken. I'd love to see him fall to the Pack at 53, but realistically I predict he is a 1st rounder if not in top 5-10 conversation in round 2. I have a 'feeling' the Packers are extremely high on him and nothing would surprise me if he somehow ends up in GB.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 21, 2022 at 10:28 pm
Receiver isnt even their biggest need. That would be OL. Everything starts up front and the Packers oline is currently in shambles.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 22, 2022 at 08:32 am
However the good thing is the Packers can get a good OL in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th round. No need to rush and just let the draft unfold.
cnich290
April 21, 2022 at 11:26 pm
All good points. For me, I think Safety is right behind receiver. I could see Gute looking to replace or at least reduce Savage, plus Amos might not get extended.
If we (yes I'm a we guy LOL), can walk out of first two rounds a day have Burks, Lewis Cine, George Pickens, and a IDL or EDGE, I'll be JACKED!
jhtobias
April 21, 2022 at 11:42 pm
I really Don't understand the Leo Chenal Fascination with Packer fans . I hope Gutey takes Chanel , Troy Anderson, and Chad Muma off the board they are just Blake Martinez and A.J. Hawk part 3 . 150 tackles 5 yards down the field can't cover anyone . Hopefully unlike most packer fans on this site they have learned their lesson with having a guy like Campbell on the team . I agree a secound inside linebacker is huge Channing Tindell is perfect .
Defensive line is huge and hope Gutey get's one in the top 59 with one of the 4 picks . Your paying Dean lowrey 8 million this year but can cut him and save 5 million . Sorry business is business.
Christian Watson what is the fascination with this man in especially in the first second or third round makes no sense . Yes he is 6 foot 4 4.36 but has the highest drop rate not a clean route runner remind you of someone we drafted in the 5th round 4 years ago. Great value for a 4th or 5th round pick but a first second or third come on . He will drop his first pass from Rodgers and Rodgers will never throw to him again.
This defense is 1 defense lineman , a 2nd inside linebacker to play 50 percent of the plays next to Campbell from being elite and scary .
cnich290
April 22, 2022 at 01:23 am
What about Savage? Not time to bring someone in to at least compete? I like Cine to come in and quickly turn Savage into Safety #3
gsd3
April 22, 2022 at 04:45 am
If one were to just go by the numbers, there isn't a big difference between Watson and Isaiah Weston. Weston is ranked anywhere from a 6th round guy to an undrafted free agent. If we have to roll the dice on a high ceiling moldable ball of clay, would much prefer Weston on day 3 and Burks / Olave day 1 or Tolbert / Moore day 2.
stockholder
April 22, 2022 at 06:54 am
Tolbert will have a better career than Olave.
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2022 at 06:43 am
As one of the big (and early) Chenal supporters, let me help you understand.
Those of us who want Chenal know EXACTLY what we have in Campbell: the perfect COMPLEMENT to Chenal. Campbell is very good in coverage, so he can do that while Chenal attacks the line of scrimmage. The same way Z Smith was used. I'd only have Chenal cover for occasional "variety." Even there, Wisconsin didn't ask Chenal to "cover." He was more of a zone coverage guy, so yes, he often "stood there," but with his 4.5 speed, he gets to places FAST.
What Chenal has better than most in this draft, is the strength and experience to play against NFL blockers NOW. I mean, c'mon, Chenal did 34 in the bench! Tindall has refused to do the bench. (Find me a great LB with a poor bench score...)
Consider your comparison: Tindall 6'1" 230 pounds, Chenal 6'2.5" 250. 3-Cones? Tindall 7.25 (poor), Chenal 6.84 (elite) Tindall is 6/100ths of a second faster in the 40, and 3-cone is WAY more important than the 40 for a LB.
Additionally, Chenal has played many more snaps; Tindall was rotated in even as a senior.
My favorite thing about Chenal is how he jacks up even quality OLmen, then bursts with DB speed to the QB or RB. You can see many examples where the QB is caught by surprise with how fast Chenal gets to them--they THOUGHT they had time to look at the field some more, then he's ON THEM.
Not that I don't like Tindall. I'd be happy with him, Dean, Muma, Anderson, etc. but I like Chenal MORE (I still prefer Lloyd).
stockholder
April 22, 2022 at 06:50 am
Excellent! What a Great Explanation. Well Done. The thing you could add is No indecision.
MarkinMadison
April 22, 2022 at 07:36 am
I agree with all of that, but how often would GB actually line up Chenal next to Campbell?
Thegreatreynoldo
April 24, 2022 at 06:03 am
GB lined up Barnes next to Campbell for 527 snaps (52%) and Barnes is pretty bad. So, one might suppose that if Chenal is better than Barnes, he would see the same or more snaps. 527 snaps is a significant amount.
That said, I am not a Chenal fan, at least not in the 2nd. I'd prefer him at 132, though I would not be particularly upset at 92 (nah, I don't like him even at 92).
I did watch some guy's film review. The guy liked Chenal, but all I saw were 72 run plays, some blitzes, one time with Chenal running in trail position on a TE going down the seam, one zone drop and no other coverage film.
stockholder
April 22, 2022 at 06:56 am
Go back and watch the senior Bowl. Watson only dropped 2 last year. And when you get done training all this space eaters on the DL. Leal would be the better pick to invest in.
BirdDogUni
April 24, 2022 at 07:03 am
He dropped 5 last year. Do you even care how wrong you are most of the time?
Of course Olave dropped 5 last year too.
cnich290
April 22, 2022 at 01:10 am
Does anybody feel like we should have traded Rodgers with all things considered? I really don't like how he made it seem like he was helping the team i. e. Like Brady. 51M+ is not working the team. He doesn't have enough to get it done in playoffs any more. 3 first rounders plus instead of being saddled with a massive dead cap hit when retired. Thoughts?
stockholder
April 22, 2022 at 06:42 am
Love will get traded before Rodgers. I put a QB in my draft planning on it.
MarkinMadison
April 22, 2022 at 07:40 am
I think a lot of us have that thought, but the decision has been made, at least for now.
Thegreatreynoldo
April 24, 2022 at 06:04 am
Can't be said any better.
gsd3
April 22, 2022 at 04:38 am
With pending option years and looming free agency it could be just about anything. Safety with having nobody under contract for 2023. Same with TE. OL depth. Edge.
Alexander and Gary are going to demand big $$ real soon. Jones could be a cap cut in 23. Will Bahktiari's knee hold up.
There are real needs all over. BPA with a slight skew toward WR.
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2022 at 06:04 am
Excellent points gsd3.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2022 at 11:03 am
Gary is the priority to re-sign. I would not be held captive by Alexander.
Turophile
April 22, 2022 at 07:40 am
It's easy for fans to create a 'shopping list' and go down the list ticking off draft positions until all are filled.
What that cannot take into account is how a teams draft strategy changes as the draft unfolds and they begin to see who might be available. It can also be changed if the Packers start to see a run on players at a position they feel they need (they might even have predicted a run ahead of time by gaming mocks having calculated other teams needs).
For example, I'm expecting a run on WRs between picks 28 and 53 and would very much like to be where Seattle is, with picks 40/41. That is possible, swapping the Packers 22, 59 and an exchange of third round picks (pick 92 for Seattle's 72) for Seattle's 40/41. Seattle might like to split their picks further apart like this, and the exchange value is equal.
A pre-draft shopping list might be something like WR, Edge, DL, OT, TE, S, ILB, IOL, but as the draft plays out, it is more likely that Edge is taken first (Karlaftis) or failing that Cameron Thomas at 53 if pick 59 is traded, or at 59 if it isn't. If OT Penning is available at 22, I would have to think hard about changing my draft plan to pick him up.
S or DL is a good fit at 28 (S Daxton Hill or DL Winfrey), but I'd like to try for OT Tyler Smith at 40 in a trade back. Then WR - Pickens or Pierce are my favourites.
You can see just by the few scenarios I have given, how situational the draft-for-needs order is.
It's perfectly possible that the draft falls in such a way the Packers get, in order, OT, S, WR, WR, TE, which does not line up with their pre-prioritised shopping list and misses out on Edge and DL entirely.
Thank the Lord we only have to wait 6 days for it all to start playing out - I've seen enough mock drafts to make my eyes feel like pickled onions.
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2022 at 06:03 am
Agree with all you've said, T.
MarkinMadison
April 22, 2022 at 07:48 am
Agreed. I think there is good value up and down the board at T, TE and S for sure. I think the safe-bet Edge players will be gone by the end of round 2 and I think there are a limited number of DL that I think fit what the Packers are probably looking for and they will largely go in rounds 2-4. So I do think you totally play how the board falls to you, except I'm a little nervous about WR. The need is still very clear and I think the profile of what fits for the Packers is pretty specific. Maybe the Packers don't see it that way. We'll find out by next Friday. And now, it's turkey season. Gobble gobble.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2022 at 11:07 am
Yes, or trade down with the Jets at 35 and 38.
stockholder
April 22, 2022 at 06:40 am
I did a mock with Karlaftis. @22. Nobody wanted him. If you want Pickens and all his injuries. Go get Williams first. Then take Watson. Burks and Karlaftis are the two that go up and down more than anyone. I'm against any trades.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 22, 2022 at 08:36 am
I see Karlaftis as a high round 2 guy. Doesn't mean someone won't over reach and take him in round 1. Lacks speed and stiff! Reminds me of our former 1st round pick in Perry. Yes, I love the non-stop motor Karlaftis has for sure.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2022 at 11:11 am
Yes, he fits with Dom's scheme, not Barry's.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2022 at 11:10 am
Not interested in either guy. I like your secure Watson strategy, but at #22. Teams are going to move on him. I have Burks in the bust category. Karlaftis had the injury year. I am staying away from him.
murf7777
April 22, 2022 at 08:42 am
I just don’t understand the love for Watson in the first round. He is a big risk, lack of route running, playing against inferior talent and one of the highest drop rate in the draft. Do I see a lot of potential, yes, but he is a project in my opinion and unlikely to help a lot over the next two years.
BirdDogUni
April 22, 2022 at 06:24 pm
Olave had 5 drops last year.
Watson had 5 last year.
Quit with the highest drop rate in the draft smear.
BirdDogUni
April 22, 2022 at 06:26 pm
https://www.si.com/nfl/packers/news/nfl-coms-daniel-jeremiah-warns-again...