Green Bay Packers: Early 7-Round Mock Draft

Round 4a: Joe Schobert, OLB, Wisconsin (6-2, 236)

Schobert has one of the quickest first steps in this draft class, and in my opinion, he’s one of the most underrated edge rushers coming out of college. If you get a chance, watch his game against Iowa this past season to see what he can do on the field. It’s simply amazing.

The Wisconsin native led an excellent Badgers defense in sacks (9.5) and tackles for loss (19.5) as a senior, and the exciting part is his game still has plenty of room to grow.

Going into the NFL, he could serve to get stronger and develop an array of pass rushing moves, so playing behind Clay Matthews and Julius Peppers at outside linebacker in his rookie year would benefit him greatly.

He could make an initial impact as a rotational pass rusher and then eventually replace Peppers once the veteran retires.

Round 4b: Malcolm Mitchell, WR, Georgia (6-0, 195)

The Packers may not wait this long to draft a wide receiver. It’s been well-documented this season that their receivers have struggled to gain separation and make plays downfield.

Outside of James Jones, Green Bay is still looking for a guy to step up in Jordy Nelson‘s absence.

Despite Nelson’s return next year and having young players like Davante Adams, Ty Montgomery, Jeff Janis, and Jared Abbrederis on their roster, Green Bay would be wise to add another explosive player to this mix.

As a group, the Packers wide receivers lack lights-out speed and athleticism.

Enter Malcolm Mitchell.

Mitchell possesses 4.4 speed, crisp route running, and is shifty in the open field. At Georgia, Mitchell averaged nearly 15 yards per catch (14.83), and would have put up major receiving numbers if it wasn’t for inconsistent quarterback play during his collegiate career.

On film, Mitchell reminds me of former Packers great Donald Driver. He may lack ideal size, which will cause him to slip in the draft, but he has long speed, soft hands, and is quick in-and-out of his breaks.

Next: Round 5