Green Bay Packers seven-round 2016 NFL mock draft
Round 5: LB Jatavis Brown, Akron
In the fifth round, the Packers go back to linebacker by selecting Jatavis Brown out of Akron. One of Brown’s biggest assets is his speed, and that’s never a bad thing to have on defense. He has the raw talent to become a solid player at the next level, but needs some work to his fundamentals.
Jatavis Brown tore up the track at the regional combine. Official 4.47 and 4.49 per scouts. 225 pound linebacker/safety could go top 100
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) February 15, 2016
Jatavis Brown and Elandon Roberts are undersized LB's who fly on the field and play with their hair on fire. Must see guys. #NFLDraft
— Justen Gammel (@gamscout) February 16, 2016
Brian Pedersen of Bleacher Report had high praise for Brown:
"“Jatavis Brown was the heart and soul of an Akron defense that ranked third in the nation against the run, winning eight games for the first time since moving to the FBS level in 1987. The 5’11”, 222-pound linebacker was a beast for the Zips, leading them in tackles (116), tackles for loss (20), sacks (12) and forced fumbles (four).”"
Some analysts believe Brown’s future is at safety in the NFL, and it would ultimately come down to where the team sees him fitting best. At either position, Brown is a good football player with the raw tools to become a solid piece in Dom Capers’ defense.
Brown is one of the biggest combine snubs in this year’s class, and could be an excellent mid-round target for the Packers.
Next: Round 6