Green Bay Packers seven-round 2015 Mock NFL Draft

Green Bay Packers – Round 5

Nov 15, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions tight end Jesse James (18) runs with the ball during the second quarter against the Temple Owls at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O

TE Jesse James, Penn State

The Packers could do with some more depth at the tight end position. Since Jermichael Finley’s serious neck injury that has likely cost him his NFL career (in Green Bay at least), the Packers have struggled to find production from their tight ends.

Sep 6, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions tight end Jesse James (18) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter against the Akron Zips at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Akron 21-3. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O

Andrew Quarless and Richard Rodgers are the two established options right now. Quarless is a solid contributor and has experience; Rodgers has star-potential but still needs development.

Rodgers could make a step up in his second year as a pro, but the Packers would still be wise to add some depth in the fifth round. Penn State’s Jesse James would be a good fit.

Former NFL player Bucky Brooks, now an NFL scout, praised James on NFL.com:

"“The buzz has been quietly building around James’ potential since scouts started digging into his tape and discovered he has the potential to be a lethal red-zone threat with his length and range.”"

A red-zone threat is exactly what the Packers need from the tight end position. The 6-7, 261-pounder has incredible size and the physical tools to become a mismatch for defenders in the passing game.

James could provide something new to the offense that it has been lacking. If he’s available for the Packers in the fifth round, he would be worth picking up.

Provided by Sports-Reference.com/CFB: View Original Table
Generated 3/12/2015.

Next: A pass-catching prospect