NFL Draft: Who could be the Green Bay Packers’ first pick?
By Dan Dahlke
Mississippi State Bulldogs linebacker
Benardrick McKinney(50) tackles LSU Tigers running back
Kenny Hilliard(27). Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Benardrick McKinney, LB, Mississippi State (6-4, 249)
McKinney’s name is mentioned frequently in various mock drafts around internet for the Packers’ first round pick, and for good reason. McKinney is by far the top inside linebacker in the 2015 draft and the only one worthy of first-round pick.
McKinney has Bobby Wagner-type speed and is also tough between the tackles. The Mississippi State prospect is a rare athlete for his position and a player the Packers could use in the middle of their defense.
Both A.J. Hawk and Brad Jones may be on their way out of Green Bay after this season. McKinney would be a nice complement next to Sam Barrington at inside linebacker. This would also keep the Packers from having to split Clay Matthews between inside and outside linebacker.
It’s easy to see why McKinney continues to be the most popular choice for the Packers in round one.