Brian Gutekunst is Unpredictable When it Comes to the Draft

This will only be Brian Gutekunst's third draft as GM of the Green Bay Packers but at this point we know two things about him. He will attack any roster needs aggressively and he is unpredictable when it comes to the draft. 

During the 2017 and 2018 seasons, the Green Bay Packers were in uncharted territory in the Aaron Rodgers' era having missed the playoffs both of those years. However, with new head coach Matt LaFleur at the helm and an overhauled roster, 2019 was a bounce-back season for Green Bay that included a 13-3 record, the No.2 seed in the playoffs, and a trip to the NFC Championship game.

Yet even with the success that they had, there are certainly a number of positions that could use some attention in the upcoming NFL draft. 

The main focus of many fans and draft analysts has been finding Green Bay a new weapon for the passing game or an athletic linebacker to stick in the middle of this defense, and for good reasons. But on top of  that, they need to find their long-term answer at right tackle, there are question marks surrounding the cornerback room, and Kenny Clark could use some help inside on the defensive line.

Meanwhile, Corey Linsley and Aaron Jones are free agents after the 2020 season, so looking for an interior offensive lineman and a running back should be on the to-do list as well. Not to mention that they could use more depth at tight end and safety, while some analysts have suggested that the Packers should look for Aaron Rodgers' successor at quarterback. 

Now obviously not all of these positions will be addressed with high impact players or even at all. There just isn't enough draft capital or quality players available. But how will GM Brian Gutekunst prioritize these needs early on in the draft? 

Well, that is the million dollar question and one that has been incredibly difficult to find the answer to. 

This is only Gutey's third season as general manager of the Green Bay Packers, and while it is still a little early to fully judge his first two draft classes, we have learned two things about him up to this point.

The first being that he will be aggressive in trying to fill any holes on this roster, whether that be through trades in the draft or big free agent signings. And second, he is very unpredictable when it comes to which positions or players he will select.

During his first draft in 2018, Gutey would initially trade back in Round 1 with the New Orleans Saints before trading back up to eventually take Jaire Alexander. While cornerback was certainly a need for the Packers, in the months leading up to the draft there was little if any connection between Green Bay and Alexander. 

Then in Round 2, he wasn't afraid to double-dip on the cornerback position, this time selecting Josh Jackson. And in Round 3 that year, he traded up to grab linebacker Oren Burks. 

Just this past offseason after signing Za'Darius Smith and Preston Smith in free agency, just about everyone figured that Green Bay was done addressing the edge-rusher position. However, once again, Gutey would surprise everyone by taking Rashan Gary with the 12th overall pick. He would then follow that up by making a trade that moved Green Bay from pick No. 30 to pick 21 to select Darnell Savage. And lastly in Round 2, with receivers like A.J. Brown, Mecole Hardman, and D.K. Metcalf on the board, Gutey instead went with Elgton Jenkins. The interior offensive lineman from Mississippi State.

So as we look ahead to this year's draft, which is now less than two weeks away, what the heck is Gutey going to do?

As I mentioned previously, many expect or want the Green Bay Packers to take a receiver or a linebacker in the first round, but Jim Nagy - who is the Executive Director of the Senior Bowl, a former NFL scout, and a draft analyst at ESPN - points out that many NFL teams think that they can find starting-caliber players at each of those positions into the third and fourth rounds. The same could be said for cornerback as well.

And if that is the case, does Gutey choose to instead grab an offensive tackle like Josh Jones or an interior defensive lineman such as Ross Blacklock since there isn't as much depth at those positions? Or does he grab a safety that happens to be available at pick 30? Does he love - no pun intended - Jordan Love? Or does Gutey throw another curveball at us and take a receiver anyways?

Not to mention that I haven't even brought up the idea of trading up or down which as we've seen in the past, both are certainly possibilities. 

After having said all of that, my point is that it's already difficult enough to predict what NFL teams are going to do in the draft given all the extra information that they have to work with that we aren't privy to. But with Gutey's track record he seems to be even more of a wildcard and that coupled with an overall deep draft class and a Packers team that could easily select several different positions early on, trying to pinpoint what he is going to do in the draft is incredibly difficult. 

Based on what we've seen from Gutey in the past, there is certainly the possibility that whoever he selects early on is going to be a surprise to us all. 

 

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR CHEESEHEAD NATION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER HERE.

__________________________

Born and raised in Green Bay, WI and I still call it home. After my family, watching the Packers, sharing my opinions on the team through my writing and interacting with other fans is my greatest passion. You can find me on Twitter at @Paul_Bretl. 
 

NFL Categories: 
3 points
 

Comments (91)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
Leatherhead's picture

April 10, 2020 at 01:06 pm

Gutekunst will strengthen the defense. He will probably wait until Day 3 for his RB. I think Jenkins will replace Linsley in 2021.

We have a solid starting secondary and a good four man rush, but we need a better nickel, a better safety/lb hybrid in the dime, and a better guy on the DL. That’s our draft

-4 points
1
5
dobber's picture

April 10, 2020 at 02:38 pm

Jenkins gives them a lot of flexibility if that #62 pick turns out to be a high end OG or C.

4 points
4
0
Irish_Cheesehead's picture

April 10, 2020 at 03:26 pm

With a WR group deeper than it's even been in a draft, there is no way Gute doesn't draft at least 2 pass catchers. He also needs an OT.

5 points
5
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 10, 2020 at 09:16 pm

You get picks to the strength of a draft. Then, you don't pick guys like Jackson or Burks that beg for upgrades a couple years later. OT or WR in round one.Vice Versa round two. CB or a DT/ILB in round three, vice versa round four. TE round five. Trade up for another five pick for a speed WR..

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

April 11, 2020 at 08:20 am

The majority of draft picks washout of the league without ever making an impact. Every GM whiffs.

If we take a corner high, I will be disappointed. We have 3 with potential currently on the roster. I don’t want a DT in round 3 most likely. If we can’t get a true dual threat in round one ( and I don’t think we will), Then a big run specialist type is a day three type pick.

We need WRs, plural. We need speed in depth and we need a slot type. These to compete with a MVS and EQ: we need real depth. We need an ILB and a hybrid: zero depth at present. We likely need a good OT prospect as well. At present we have no cover type OLB (other than two untested UDFAs)

Load up on corner and RB prospects in UDFA, particularly the the former or rounds 6 or 7. I would be perfectly happy not to draft a TE at all. We have two young ones and our PS likely has one closer to play than any we would pick up late. As for corner, I will roll with Sullivan, Holman, Ento and Jackson as enough depth to both fill the loss of Williams and prepare for the future.

2 points
2
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 11, 2020 at 12:31 pm

The # 94 is essentially a high four pick. The idea at the three pick is the best out of CB, DT, ILB maybe another WR. Proche is a curious WR for the slot pegged in the fourth, but probably going higher. I don't care for hybrids in the NFL. Greene fits that role. Maybe a guy like Muse is the SS/ILB type profile. Currently they have three CBs with playing experience and Savage could probably play slot if needed. I don't know about Hollman or Ento. I didn't attend any Packer practices last summer. Hollman did look good for Toledo and saw him in the weekly MAC games. The CBs are a good group this year right behind the OT and WR positions. Have to bag a guy if he's there @ #3 or the #4. I guess Jackson has playing experience, but Pettine shows little faith in him.

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

April 11, 2020 at 02:59 pm

"The # 94 is essentially a high four pick. "

Once you get past pick 32 and there's no 5th year option available, rounds mean nothing except providing a convenient stopping point on Friday night. Pick 94 is just pick 94.

4 points
4
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 12, 2020 at 03:52 pm

Then put #94 with #200 on your trade value chart.

-1 points
0
1
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 12, 2020 at 01:20 am

Teams need 4 CBs who can play, with the 4th probably seeing 350+ snaps. I am not at present overly interested in paying Kevin King in 2021, either. I like Hollman but he played just four snaps. I am open-minded about Ento developing, but he is an unknown. Much might depend on how they looked during practice at the end of the season.

There is a story that has yet to be reported about the release of Tony Brown. I don't know what it is, but I view his release as a mystery that makes me acquiesce in drafting another CB on day two or early day three.

1 points
1
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 12, 2020 at 03:54 pm

He got the nickname "crazy Tony" for a reason.

0 points
0
0
Leatherhead's picture

April 10, 2020 at 03:47 pm

Irish.....greetings from an Irishman. I think you are wrong about the WRs, and any lineman we’d draft would be last day.

I think Gute will put the strongest defense he can on the field. We already have 9 OL under contract, including all the starters.

We need an upgrade at nickel....which is essentially a starter. We’re still missing the hybrid safety/linebacker. And we need a big chunk of muscle on the defensive line.

Add Diggs, Chinn, and Hamilton to this defense and we’re probably a Top 5 defense.

-2 points
1
3
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 12, 2020 at 02:08 am

OL: the five starters (Bakh and Linsley in contract years), Patrick and Taylor (contract year), are seven guys who can play in the NFL.

Cole Madison (ACL in November, unlikely to work out until August), is wholly unproven, as are OTs Conway, LeGlue, Nijman and Light.

I think GB would have to consider Josh Jones at #30 since he should be a solid if not All-pro LT for 10 years. Might save $21M/year. Jones probably will have been taken before GB selects.

I think GB has to consider a third or fourth round Center or Guard. Such a player might make Lane Taylor expendable this season for a $4.08M savings and Linsley expendable in 2021, which would save $10M.

Notwithstanding the above, I agree that GB needs a CB and an ILB and that these defensive needs are more urgent. Still, it is better to draft good prospects than to reach for prospects who fill more pressing needs. I also agree that GB needs another quality DL, but I don't think this is a good DL class. Unless GB uses day a high pick, they are unlikely to get someone better than Lowry/Lancaster and perhaps Keke.

GB absolutely, positively has to draft a WR.

2 points
2
0
Bure9620's picture

April 12, 2020 at 04:35 am

I like Jones a lot as well, almost as much as I like Becton. I doubt a Tackle of that caliber whom could be a 8-10 year starter is available at 30.....we have some smart GMs drafting ahead of us.

1 points
1
0
stockholder's picture

April 12, 2020 at 08:50 am

Your thinking like a GM. Wolf said you build at team with Ots and Cbs. Most surveys are calling for a OT. Taking a OT for the purpose of saving money, will only make this team regress! Gutey has had two drafts, and not one will become a star. The super-bowl winners have had a great QB and a good Defense. No defense is good enough without good Lbs. We won the last one with CM3, Hawk, etc. And how long have the fans begged for a Ray Nitscke? It's time to draft stars, and fill the need at ILB. While Pettine may have faith in his guy. It's NOT enough! Yes Gutey must positively draft a Wr. But he cannot push by a star ILB to do it. His eyes must be focused on stars, not numbers.

1 points
2
1
Leatherhead's picture

April 12, 2020 at 01:26 pm

Light played 150 snaps and didn’t give up a sack. I wouldn’t consider him wholly unproven. IMO, we have our line for 2020 .

-1 points
0
1
jannes bjornson's picture

April 12, 2020 at 03:59 pm

All of the top tier OTs will be going high this year, not many falling out of the high teen/early twenties . Most scouts say Jones is a RT or a guard in the NFL. The call on Bhaktiari should lean toward re-signing him. There are top LTs coming out next season that are rated higher than some of this year's group but they will be top ten picks.

-1 points
0
1
Stroh's picture

April 13, 2020 at 10:13 am

If Josh Jones is available at #30 he will be the pick, you can bank on that. He's rated right around #30, but its the positional value that really makes it the right pick. OT is a premium position and any time you have an opportunity and a need at a premium position they will take it.

I agree about DL, but don't see any DL that really standout as playmakers. They will look at that position a little later in the draft.

On the OL, getting an OT early is very likely and getting a Center in rd 4 or 5 to replace Linsley would be a wise move.

0 points
0
0
Lare's picture

April 10, 2020 at 01:17 pm

If I had to guess, I'd say Gutekunst gets a big guy with his first pick (even if he moves back), either OL or DL.

8 points
11
3
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

April 11, 2020 at 11:17 am

Very possible as hard to get those quality big guys.

If they opt for something other than the big body type I hope it is a true speed game changer on offense. Preferably in the slot but outside would work too.

0 points
0
0
Archie's picture

April 10, 2020 at 01:22 pm

Yes, Gutey is nothing if not unpredictable. And as you say, he is aggressive as well. Other than possibly blowing 3 top picks in 2 years: Josh Jackson (2), Oren Burks (3) & Rashan Gary (1), I like his style. It is such a breath of fresh air compared to the Ted Thompson way.

I don' think a great defensive player will unexpectedly fall into his lap at pick 30. It is possible
he could trade up to get one e.g., Murray. Otherwise I see him going offense and not trading up. If he loves Mims and Mims is still on the board he probably takes him. If Mims is gone, I think he will trade down. In fact, once he exercises the #2 pick he traded down for (Aiyuk maybe) , I see him trading back up with his original R2 pick if he can secure Chase Claypool. If not Claypool, possibly another player, on offense or defense, that falls unexpectedly. Heck, I would not be surprised to see him trade up in R3 as well. This is a very deep draft.

-2 points
2
4
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

April 11, 2020 at 08:22 pm

Archie,
Nice post! Irritating people give thumbs down for anyone's pist here. Dont get it!

Personally, I'd like to say we need to give Gary another year before saying it was wasted. Probably a reach but even Jackson deserves another year. The guy is instinctive just not fast. Time to move him to his true position at safety. Come on Packer coaches figure it out! Put him in position for him to succeed!

I think the Packers may already have a talented and upcoming ILB in one of Summers, Bolton, and Owens.

-2 points
0
2
Stroh's picture

April 11, 2020 at 10:28 pm

If this is a deep draft as you suggest it is, then moving up as you suggest makes no sense. You move up for a specific player that is in a higher tier only, not if its a deep draft and there are alot of players in the same tier available. In a deep draft you want more picks not less!

4 points
5
1
WestWi_Packfan's picture

April 10, 2020 at 01:32 pm

I see our biggest needs at WR, ILB, DT and TE. In the first round they are likely to go after a WR or ILB while grabbing the other two possibly in rounds 3-5. An OT is probably a need as well but could be put off until next year if they cant find a good prospect, also Jared Veldeer could be brought back for a season to guarantee depth. Jefferson, Mims or Aiyuk in the first round and Zack Baun in the 2nd would be a great start. I dont see Gute trading picks or positions until day 2 or 3 although you never know who might fall into their laps as Rogers once did to Thompson.

-2 points
1
3
dobber's picture

April 10, 2020 at 02:41 pm

With Wagner on only a 2-year deal, Bakhtiari and Linsley coming up for big money, no playable depth at OT, and limited available cap space, OL is a major need area in this draft.

8 points
9
1
Lare's picture

April 10, 2020 at 03:10 pm

Yes, and add in Jones, Clark and King as FAs next year and some players will be traded or released. There's just not enough salary cap space to sign them all.

4 points
4
0
Leatherhead's picture

April 10, 2020 at 03:37 pm

Which is why this season is our best shot with Rodgers.

1 points
1
0
WestWi_Packfan's picture

April 10, 2020 at 03:30 pm

My point was we could get by for another year without drafting a Tackle 1-3 spot for one more year if we had to, because Veldeer is a vet that can step right in and we wont lose much. Of course we need one for the future but which position that I listed as the top 4 do you think we can move back to deal with OT instead? Maybe TE? We have plenty of depth at Guard and Turner can move to RT if he has to.

1 points
2
1
dobber's picture

April 10, 2020 at 04:00 pm

They have Taylor and Patrick as depth at G (and C), but I don't see Taylor making it out of camp. They'll need his cap space. If they thought Patrick was a starting quality G, one or both of LInsley and Taylor would be gone by now. My limited knowledge of Turner is that he's likely better at LG than RG, and much better at either of those positions than at RT. Veldheer would be nice, but he's going to command more than the vet minimum on a one-year deal (he got $3.5 M one a one-year deal last year...and that's if he decides he wants to play), and is only putting your thumb in the dike with regard to OL depth and player development.

With the change in game-day eligible player rules and the impending contract situations the Packers have to deal with, it makes it easier to carry 2-3 rookies as developmental and backup players on the OL. I think they draft at least two and maybe 3. It marries well with draft depth, too.

3 points
4
1
flackcatcher's picture

April 10, 2020 at 07:55 pm

Offensive line is a huge question mark next year. I can make a strong case for cutting either Taylor or Turner this year over Cap. But that would damage both quality and depth this season since both can play four positions on the O line. Also, we won't know how fast these rookies can adapt to the pro game giving the havoc Con-19 is causing in pro sports.

1 points
1
0
CheesyTex's picture

April 10, 2020 at 08:51 pm

Cole Madison?

-1 points
0
1
dobber's picture

April 10, 2020 at 10:44 pm

Drafted in 2018, missed all of 2018 due to personal issues, returned in 2019 but never played in a game (and to my knowledge never active on game day). ACL injury in November which will possibly cost him all of camp this year and maybe put him on the PUP list. You'll forgive me for not expecting much.

8 points
8
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 10, 2020 at 09:22 pm

Taylor is just a matter of time. Turner carries too much dead money, he stays. The wild card is a possible Lindsley trade out?

2 points
2
0
flackcatcher's picture

April 11, 2020 at 09:21 pm

Until the draft, we won't know how this plays out. And with what's going on the Packers and other NFL teams, would lead to keep their veterans who they might cut for cap reasons. Taylor started this year, the Packers don't usually cut productive players over injuries. But with what's going on, that just guess work on my part.

0 points
0
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 12, 2020 at 04:07 pm

Jenkins beat him out during summer camp, but they let Taylor show for the Bears and Queens as a veteran and he was getting beat inside.

0 points
0
0
Duneslick's picture

April 11, 2020 at 12:54 pm

Why do people keep mentioning Baun. He is an outside linebacker not inside. He does not have the skills to play inside. (Biegal clone) We have 2 15 million dollar a year outside linebackers and a number 1 pick Gary there already. I know he is from wisconsin but that would be a wasted pick. At best if he plays one of the other 3 are not.

3 points
3
0
Stroh's picture

April 11, 2020 at 10:41 pm

Baun is a slight projection at ILB, but he is a do it all LB who while he played OLB at UW, is going to have to move to ILB in the NFL, a la Schobert. Baun is a much better prospect than either Schobert or Beigel were. Baun is 6'2 235, he can't play 34 OLB in the NFL at that size.

Baun may not be great at any one thing as a LB, but he does have a varied skill set that most easily suggests ILB is his NFL position. He can play the run, he can drop in coverage very well and he can be a decent pass rusher (tho probably best as a blitzing ILB). Baun beside being a possibility as an ILB at #30 would be a perfect replacement for Fackrell as the OLB that can drop in coverage.

Personally I think he fits best as a 2nd rd pick simply because he's a bit of projection to ILB, but he absolutely has the skill set to play ILB in the NFL or as a 43 LB. He isn't really at his size going to be able to play OLB in a 34 D, like he did at UW, where the OLB are generally 260+ lbs in the NFL.

1 points
2
1
jannes bjornson's picture

April 12, 2020 at 04:10 pm

He was set up as a 3-4 inside guy on a lot of his blitzes and run fits.

0 points
0
0
Duneslick's picture

April 11, 2020 at 12:55 pm

Why do people keep mentioning Baun. He is an outside linebacker not inside. He does not have the skills to play inside. (Biegal clone) We have 2 15 million dollar a year outside linebackers and a number 1 pick Gary there already. I know he is from wisconsin but that would be a wasted pick. At best if he plays one of the other 3 are not.

-1 points
0
1
dobber's picture

April 11, 2020 at 01:06 pm

I would've argued that Vince Biegel was mis-cast on the outside in a 3-4 and that he really belonged inside. With Fackrell moving on, Baun could pick up off-ball snaps inside and outside, but I agree: I don't see the fit in GB.

0 points
0
0
PeteK's picture

April 11, 2020 at 01:57 pm

His solid play as an ILB in Miami proves your point.

1 points
1
0
Handsback's picture

April 10, 2020 at 02:20 pm

I think a 1st round big will fall to the Packers. They (the Packers) aren't looking at ILB in the first round, but I think they are looking at two big DT/DEs that may fall to them. If that doesn't happen...I think they trade back and improve both sides of the ball with a WR-Aiyuk and then the CB from Auburn-Noah Igbinoghene.
Noah fits Green Bay's defense. His rank is mid second round value, but wouldn't be surprised if its Igbinoghene first and then Aiyuk.

-1 points
2
3
hobowilly's picture

April 12, 2020 at 03:19 pm

HB, you just want them to pick a guy we can't pronounce!

0 points
0
0
Dzehren's picture

April 10, 2020 at 03:11 pm

GUTE tendencies suggest he will draft OL, WR & ILB. These positions are the strength of the draft (ILB not as strong as OL & WR).
They are current teams needs evidenced by GUTE’S recent free agent acquisitions. CB & DT are wildcards.

1 points
2
1
stockholder's picture

April 10, 2020 at 04:37 pm

I think Gutey is predictable. He will take what he needs, whether it's the 1st rd or the last rd. His biggest problem is giving up To Much for the player he wants. The problem is not seeing the Big picture when he does it. Drafting players is an art. Letting them sit the bench is mind boggling. Gutey came out and told you what they were interested in. (WRs and LBs.) Yet most people think the packers need a IOL, OT, RB, TE. first. Well we did just fine last year, but somehow the IF comes up. The Vacancy is at LB. Not OL. The upgrade is at Wrs, Not RB. If Gutey sticks to his guns. The top target will be a LB. Not QB. That Wr should be taken over the DL. Any other player, is giving into the MOCK propaganda of the press. Which then you can believe Gutey speaks with a twisted tongue. And BPA doesn't work @30 when you have vacancies. Gutey' job is secure. He doesn't have to let other opinions control him. Being Honest is still the best policy to solve any problems. Not to mention trading down,Trading for, or swaps. For the Good of the Packers, I hope he sticks to his guns.(Wr/LB)

3 points
5
2
ShawnO's picture

April 10, 2020 at 07:46 pm

You are very wrong, BG signed two free agents to two year contracts, OT and ILB. If they predominantly use one ILB then how can it be one of the top needs? If they plan on signing David B and we have two decent Centers sitting on the bench, then how is OL a priority? I think CB is a bigger need than OL and ILB.

0 points
1
1
stockholder's picture

April 10, 2020 at 07:59 pm

The Vacancy is Goodson and Fackrell. He replaced Martinez only. His comment about looking for Wrs and LBs. was at the combine.

2 points
2
0
hobowilly's picture

April 12, 2020 at 03:31 pm

disagree that Gutey is predictable. Think what you want, i have faith in him and his team to select 3 or 4 good players who will contribute in this next years' season That, IMHO, is a successful draft. The grades for last years' draft are still in play--here, i like to give a couple years to see how they come out. Shame on the Gary haters....we shall see, give him a chance as its predictable (if he can stay on the field, he WILL be a contributor!); get rid of Burks, he's had his chance, so i'm hopeful for Kirksey and thinking GB will snag an ILB. Otherwise, yes, they'll likely choose a big, either side of the line. Honestly, if GB has a guy they really like....and he's "reachable", go for it (within reason!) WR's down stream.
They also wait on a developmental QB until the 5th and beyond.

0 points
0
0
stockholder's picture

April 12, 2020 at 05:40 pm

It's not enough just to contribute !!. I don't believe anyone hates anybody. Gary is a classic example of drafting a guy on test results. Moving him, and then not getting the most out of him. Thats the criticism. When guys go un-drafted and can beat out a draft choice, Somethings wrong. When the fan base wants you to get a FA Wr and you have 6 on the roster. Somethings wrong. When you can't stop the run and are almost last. Somethings Wrong. When you've had 9 years to get good ILBs. Somethings wrong. When you make a trade and keep drafting that position. Somethings wrong. But when you get 4 guys in Free Agency. That Made a difference. Getting more difference makers means you know how to do your job.

0 points
0
0
Lphill's picture

April 10, 2020 at 06:28 pm

St.Btown is returning, they signed Beagleton from Canada and recently Funchess so I don’t think a receiver is a priority, I see the Packers trading out of round 1 just to pick up an additional pick , I don’t think Gute is in a win now mode and probably feels he can draft another Rodgers caliber QB , I say trade Rodgers to the Patriots or 49 ers and let Rodgers get another ring before he retires .

-12 points
2
14
ShawnO's picture

April 10, 2020 at 07:36 pm

Agreed BG is not going into the draft prioritising WR, but I also don't think he is prioritizing QB. BG has set himself up to take the best available player at 30 regardless of position because there are very few positions that a player that is falling in the draft that can't help the packers.

0 points
0
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 10, 2020 at 09:25 pm

Key word for Packer Fans: Playmaker. Get more of these guys.

4 points
4
0
Guam's picture

April 11, 2020 at 07:38 am

This has been discussed before. You can't trade Rodgers for the same reason you can't cut him - the huge signing bonus he got immediately comes due and wrecks the salary cap. You would have to cut one or two top line players to get back under the salary cap this year. You can trade the player and the remainder of his contract, but you can't trade the bonus you already paid him. Nonstarter of an idea.

6 points
6
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 11, 2020 at 12:05 pm

Put it this way, if they didn't have Rodgers do you think they would have made the playoffs any of the past five years building around a greenhorn? They were lucky he fell to them in 2005 and it would be wise to ride that roll until he decides to hang it up or go somewhere warm.

3 points
3
0
dobber's picture

April 11, 2020 at 03:12 pm

I get tired of the notion that the Packers "owe" #12 anything. People said the same things about Favre. They pay him very well and have paid him well over his career...potentially more than he's worth at this point. ARod signed his contract, the Packers are agreeing to pay it. To say they should let him go somewhere else so "he can get another ring" is garbage.

3 points
3
0
Bure9620's picture

April 12, 2020 at 05:15 am

Rodgers SB is spread out and would still be a cap his plus the extra dead money in a trade. Rodgers is the starter in GB for a minimum of 2 more years.

0 points
0
0
dobber's picture

April 12, 2020 at 09:32 am

They can actually cut him after this season and make $5M back on the cap.

-2 points
0
2
PhantomII's picture

April 10, 2020 at 10:59 pm

2020 Rd #1 draft pick: 3 down DT to pair with Clark (Contract Insurance)
2021 Rd #1 draft pick: Top 4 RB with best hands 4.4-40 speed pair with A. Jones on field at same time one rotating to the slot. Contract Yr.
2020 Rd #2 draft pick: WR Claypool 4.42-40 speed (big target) hybrid TE.
2020 Rd #3 draft pick: Trade w/ AZ. for Andy Isabella for Primary slot weapon 4.36-40 speed. Shifty receiver. They have Hopkins now
2020 Rd #4 draft pick: DT Better depth
2020 Rd #5 draft pick: ILB Depth
2020 Rd #6 draft pick: ILB Depth
2020 Rd #6 draft pick: DB Depth
2020 Rd #7 draft pick: DB, DB Depth
Go win a Championship

-4 points
2
6
Boneman's picture

April 11, 2020 at 06:56 am

With all the FA signings this year so far there isn't a true 'need' like last year (Savage) or 2018 (Alexander) so trading up is probably off the board. I truly think Gute expects Burks, Summers, Jackson, Keke, Hollman and Gary to all step up into prominent roles. I predict he goes best player available and focuses on offense. Don't be surprised if several lineman and RB's are targeted early. In fact I think a top RB falling to 30 is likely and that could be our pick. I also don't expect an early WR and we probably won't see one taken until the 4th or 5th round unless it's Claypool, who they will convert to TE (Packers love their position move projects!). They'll go for defensive depth with their extra late round picks. I predict that Clark gets signed but Bahk doesn't. Think trade or future tag for him. Gute thinks like a businessman not a fan...

-6 points
1
7
Lphill's picture

April 11, 2020 at 07:21 am

I was censured for saying trade Rodgers for picks to the Pats or the 49 ers so he can get another ring before he retires he has earned it. This run defense is not going to be fixed through the draft especially when your concerned about replacing players for 2021 and not fielding a team to win now.

-10 points
2
12
13TimeChamps's picture

April 11, 2020 at 08:59 am

It was already explained to you that because of how Rodgers contract is structured, it's basically impossible to trade him for the next two years. It was a dumb idea the first time you brought it up, and it hasn't gotten any less dumb since.

9 points
9
0
Leatherhead's picture

April 11, 2020 at 07:58 pm

Sadly , some people don’t read and think before they throw their .02 in, but you are 1000% correct about the contract and the trade.

Look, Gutekunst doesn’t make up a new plan every month. He was given a very nice contract and a chance to try to win a Super Bowl within five years. Currently, he is 28 months into the term of the agreement . This is the third team for him, but it’s still the same plan as always.

1. Win with Rodgers. That means protecting him by giving other people more opportunities and taking some of the load off so that he stays healthy.

2. Put the best possible defense on the field.

3. Win the turnover battle.

That’s the plan. And I think after the draft you’ll see that we have no interest in a high-octane passing attack. We’re going to grind it out, just like we did a bunch of times last year.

3 points
3
0
dobber's picture

April 12, 2020 at 09:39 am

"Look, Gutekunst doesn’t make up a new plan every month."

I think the best GMs have a general plan for what they're trying to accomplish, but are extremely flexible in how they're going to go about it and always reassessing the best way to get there. If BG is good at what he does, he's got a billion (hyperbole) possible scenarios built for how the draft might play out, and has already looked past the draft at possible trades or FA acquisitions to supplement what happened on draft day(s).

-1 points
0
1
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

April 11, 2020 at 08:28 pm

I'd only consider trading Rodgers if (1) the Packers are rebuilding which I think they are; and (2) the Packers could get the top rated QB on top of this draft this year. I'm talking the top draft pick.

Not going to happen but that is what it would take for me to trade Rodgers this year.

-5 points
0
5
PeteK's picture

April 12, 2020 at 09:00 am

They just went to the championship game and have the same team coming back plus draft picks. They are NOT rebuilding. Here's a tissue. LOL

2 points
2
0
Packman60's picture

April 11, 2020 at 08:26 am

Trade down to a team that wants Love and pick OT Ezra Cleveland. Use some of the draft capital to trade back up in round two to grab Aiyuk. Inside linebacker or cornerback in the 3rd and take Leki Fotu in the 4th to stuff the run.This would be a great way to start the draft.

5 points
5
0
Dzehren's picture

April 11, 2020 at 08:46 am

This is a sound idea. Grabbing an OT & WR early.

2 points
2
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 11, 2020 at 12:20 pm

What if the Raiders or Patriots grab Love, or the Chargers?

0 points
0
0
Stroh's picture

April 11, 2020 at 10:58 pm

Cleveland is the 2nd coming of Jason Spriggs. I'll puke if they draft him. He's an awesome athlete at OT that didn't play to the level his athleticism suggests. Both Cleveland and Spriggs were excellent athletes that don't play like it. Cleveland has BUST written all over him. There are 5 OT that are worth a 1st, then another couple that are possibilities in the 2nd Jackson USC being the best of them. Cleveland should not be the pick, certainly not at #30 and I wouldn't take him at #62, but someone else will before that anyway. Let another team make the mistake of drafting Cleveland!

OT, WR and ILB are very likely picks in rds 1-3 but the order will be determined by how the draft falls.

1 points
1
0
dobber's picture

April 12, 2020 at 09:51 am

I'm not a fan of Cleveland, either, but the consensus with Spriggs was a lack of motivation and focus...his issues were mostly between the ears. As a f'rinsance: coming out of college, he had a reputation for not protecting his inside shoulder. Correctable. If you watched him through his time in GB, it's never happened. Is that on coaches or on Spriggs? I agree that there's a lot of Spriggs--physically--in Cleveland, but that Cleveland has a better reputation for being a team guy and a worker. I think that gives him a little better shot, but I don't want him before pick #94 and with the needs this team has, likely not even there. At some point the risk is worth the investment, though.

0 points
0
0
jannes bjornson's picture

April 12, 2020 at 04:23 pm

Jackson will not get past the #20 pick in round one. Cleveland's film against Utah confirms some of your concerns.

-1 points
0
1
HankScorpio's picture

April 12, 2020 at 04:54 pm

I lost track of whether Jackson is the 38th or 39th guy that I've been told will be gone by the time the Packers pick at 30.

0 points
0
0
Stroh's picture

April 13, 2020 at 10:26 am

There is no way Austin Jackson is worth a pick in the 20's, he's rated in the 40's and would make sense anytime in rd 2, certainly not #30. He's only 20 yrs old so that might give him additional value to the Packers, but evenso he is not a 1st rd pick!

0 points
0
0
Roadrunner23's picture

April 11, 2020 at 08:37 am

Aiyuk WR
Niang OT
Harrison LB
Trautman TE
Reed S
Coe DL
Green CB
Leake RB/KR

That is all....

0 points
0
0
stockholder's picture

April 11, 2020 at 10:00 am

Aiyuk- Staying away from Inj. @30 Queen ILB @62 Duvernay WR is Mims, and will go before @94 Fotu DT Rd, @138 Davon Taylor OLB, @175 Davis Dt, @192 Watkins WR @208 Sullivan Te,@209 Durant OT STEAL! @236 Taylor RB, Steal! @248 My Sleeper- T Tyler Clark DT,

-1 points
1
2
PatrickGB's picture

April 11, 2020 at 10:00 am

I like “Clark and Clark” on the D-line. It kinda reminds me of Smith and Smith at OLB ;-)
But seriously, I have no idea about just exactly who Gutie will draft. He surprised me each year he picked. So I expect that he will surprise me again.

0 points
0
0
Dagger's picture

April 11, 2020 at 01:11 pm

Thinking it will be a ILB in the first if Murray , Baun or Queen are available (in that order). If not then it will be a WR . Thinking Mims will be gone by then but Aiyuk, Reagor and Claypool might be had with a trade back a bit. Don't waste a QB early pick this year. Maybe a DL or CB in the third or double down on WR( especially if Lynn Bowden Jr of Kentucky is there or LB (Logan or Brooks). Actually Bowden Jr looks good enough to take in the second...higher than most mocks are taking him.

1 points
1
0
stockholder's picture

April 11, 2020 at 03:30 pm

Truthfully I'd take Higgins first. But I'm betting Murray and Reagor are off the board. The trick to this draft is getting a Wr in the second, if you do take a LB. All good ILBs will be gone by @92. If you draft one @62 you might as well pick one @30. Justin Madubuike- BA- DT, will be gone by @62. If you take a WR too. The Trade up is too much! in the2nd!! Aiyuk is at 62 on a lot of Top 100 boards. And his injuries are sinking him. Duvernay is @77 and climbing. Height is the only concern here. Fotu. is going to go 3-4. A RB or TE are better ,but nobody can stop the run like Fotu. Drafting a OL like Jones is possible, but then you miss the above. Is a TE better then Wr? TT didn't think so when he took Adams. I believe Gutey should go offense.- If he signs CM3. The Packers and Ravens have been in contact with him.

1 points
1
0
Lphill's picture

April 11, 2020 at 02:09 pm

I guess CheeseheadTV does not support the first amendment, I have been deleted several times so I guess you can only make positive golly gee comments that the author likes.

-7 points
2
9
PeteK's picture

April 11, 2020 at 02:21 pm

We will find out how good of a talent evaluator Gut is this year. Some of his previous picks must develop: Gary, Burks, Jackson, Sternberger, MVS. In addition, this year's draft must produce at least 3 solid contributors.

2 points
2
0
dobber's picture

April 11, 2020 at 03:18 pm

I don't disagree in principle that getting rookies to play well will be very helpful, but if all those guys develop, where would a rookie play?

0 points
2
2
PeteK's picture

April 11, 2020 at 04:14 pm

A fantasy would be developing all our young players, that's why I said some. Special teams and backups are great places to develop rookies especially now with a 17 game season.

0 points
0
0
Thegreatreynoldo's picture

April 12, 2020 at 02:52 am

If they all develop that would be a good problem to have.

4 points
4
0
mnbadger's picture

April 11, 2020 at 02:39 pm

All of us, except hopefully Gutey, are throwing guesses at the wall. Cross your fingers that he's the better shot.

3 points
3
0
Stroh's picture

April 11, 2020 at 11:07 pm

Based on history you can make educated guesses. See my comment below for a highly likely guess on how the Packers draft will play out specifically at #30.

0 points
0
0
jeremyjjbrown's picture

April 11, 2020 at 07:22 pm

I have no idea what Gute will do but I would want as many round 2 and 3 picks in this draft as possible.

2 points
3
1
flackcatcher's picture

April 11, 2020 at 09:29 pm

So would every other GM in the league...... :-)

0 points
0
0
ShawnO's picture

April 11, 2020 at 09:28 pm

Tried a couple of these Mock Draft Simulators tonight... What a waist of time. Isaiah Simmons went #1 and Joe Burrow went #7 to the Panthers after Tua and Herbert.... Stopped right there and tried a different one. Completely different site this time, CeeDee Lamb fell to the Packers at pick 30.... WTF.... waist of time.

0 points
0
0
Stroh's picture

April 11, 2020 at 10:12 pm

One thing is certain... The Packers value these positions far more than any other. They are QB, OT, Pass Rusher and CB. Going back to when Ron Wolf stepped in as GM that has become abundantly clear and that being the case, those are the most likely positions the Packers will use a 1st rd pick on. Among them OT is a priority as well pass rushing DT. If one of the top 5 OT is on the board that is likely the pick. Josh Jones being the most likely to be available at #30, but that is seeming to be unlikely at this point. I don't think any of the DT that are possibly available at #30, Blacklock and Epenesa being most likely is really worth #30. That's my opinion, I know others may think so but I don't see it.

After those 4 positions, it comes down to BPA, IF and that's a big IF there is a player at any position that stands head and shoulders above any other player (as in from a higher teir of talent). At #30 that could be possible, but is unlikely. Your then looking at needs at a secondary position which can include ILB, WR being the most likely. WR being as deep as it is I think they wait for Rd 2.

In the end, it come down to these possibilities and in this order.
1. OT - specifically Josh Jones.
2. ILB - one of Murray, Queen or possibly Baun (IMO Baun is more of a 2nd, but a case can be made for end rd 1)
3. WR - which ever they think is the best for the Packers among Aiyuk, Reagor, Mims (IMO Jefferson will be gone well before #30.
4. DL - If they think a DT is enough of a playmaker for #30. I don't think that's the case.
5. Trade down is becoming increasingly likely.
6. Outside possibility for a small trade up (Seattle would be perfect to jump Baltimore and get one of the ILB).

0 points
1
1
jannes bjornson's picture

April 12, 2020 at 04:38 pm

Trade ups with NOLA or Seattle are possible.

0 points
0
0
Dagger's picture

April 11, 2020 at 10:27 pm

Jalen Raegor (stud WR!!!!) or Jefferson WR or Zach Baun or Kenneth Murray at LB...... All in all it is a wonderful time of the year despite our COVID surroundings...the draft is and can be a healing balm of distraction...... in the midst of this never stop loving and extending grace to all in our proximity. Happy Easter. He is Risen!

1 points
3
2
nstewart1's picture

April 11, 2020 at 10:59 pm

My guess is that the way the board will line-up our best bets would be:
#1 - OT
#2 - WR
#3 - ILB
#4 - IDL or CB
#5 - RB

I'd like us to get a veteran Run Stopper in FA; at this point they should be around and not expensive.

0 points
2
2