Green Bay Packers 7-Round Mock Draft

Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert (80) catches a pass against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Ha Ha Clinton-Dix. Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Round 1: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Free Safety, Alabama

Clinton-Dix would be a steal at pick 25 in the first round. He not only addresses perhaps the Packers’ top need going into the draft, but he also offers some playmaking ability to a position that has come up short in this department for the Packers in 2013.

The junior from Alabama is by far the top safety prospect in this year’s draft class and the only one worth a first round grade. With so many other teams ahead of the Packers in the first round needing a starting-caliber safety, it would be a big surprise if Clinton-Dix is still available by the time the Packers pick at 25.

Clinton-Dix is a true ball hawk. He’s recorded seven interceptions the past two seasons and has the speed (4.52) to roam the middle of the field and close in on receivers.

Clinton-Dix is also good in run support and playing near the line of scrimmage. He’s a sure tackler, but isn’t necessarily a guy who will lay a big hit on the ball carrier in the open field.

This is a perfect example of where value meets need for the Packers in the first round. However, if Clinton-Dix isn’t available for Green Bay at the end of the first round, then expect the Packers to address another position with their first overall pick.