2014 NFL Draft: More First Round Prospects for the Green Bay Packers

Vic Beasley (3) is blocked by Syracuse Orange offensive tackle Sean Hickey (60). Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports photograph

Vic Beasley – Outside Linebacker, Clemson, 6-3, 235 (4.69)

The Packers clearly lack impact players on defense, and Beasley has “playmaker” written all over him.

The explosive speed rusher made his presence known in the Orange Bowl. He harassed Ohio State quarterback Braxton Miller all game, recording a sack and three tackles for a loss. He also forced Miller to throw an interception on one pressure and was instrumental in containing the athletic Buckeye QB inside the pocket.

Beasley is a unique player. He has the speed to contain mobile quarterbacks. He has the high-motor to make plays against the run, and he’s relentless as a pass rusher. He recorded 13 sacks as a junior and has the versatility to rush upright or with his hand in the dirt.

Outside of top-ten picks, Anthony Barr and Khalil Mack, Beasley is clearly the best 3-4 outside linebacker heading into the draft at this point. The Packers would be fortunate if Beasley fell to them in the first round. He adds speed and playmaking ability to Green Bay’s defense.

The only knock on Beasley seems to be his lack of size. He’s a bit light at 235 pounds. He will need to add weight to hold the edge at outside linebacker in the NFL, especially when it comes to run defense.

Considering Clay Matthews and Nick Perry’s injury history, Green Bay would be wise to take an explosive player like Beasley in the first round.