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Green Bay Packers seven-round 2016 NFL mock draft

By Freddie Boston

Nov 28, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jordan Jenkins (59) reacts after making a tackle against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets during the second half at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Georgia defeated Georgia Tech 13-7. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jordan Jenkins (59) reacts after making a tackle against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets during the second half at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Georgia defeated Georgia Tech 13-7. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 10, 2015; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers tight end Tyler Higbee (82) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half against Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 10, 2015; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers tight end Tyler Higbee (82) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the first half against Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua Lindsey-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 4: TE Tyler Higbee, Western Kentucky

The Packers need a tight end who can open up the middle of the field as a pass-catcher. Richard Rodgers is a dangerous red zone target, but he lacks the speed and crisp route running to become a consistent threat down the field.

Enter Tyler Higbee out of Western Kentucky.

Higbee is a former wide receiver and has carried many of those traits with him when bulking up to tight end. Higbee has great acceleration off the snap and backs it up with strong straight-line speed. He has good hands and could stretch defenses vertically, something Packers tight ends have struggled to do in recent years.

Unlike Rodgers, Higbee can dominate after the catch. He has the speed and strength to break tackles and churn out extra yardage. Higbee has the potential to become one of Aaron Rodgers’ favorite targets.

Mike McCarthy loves to use his tight ends, but the production hasn’t been there in recent seasons. In what is considered to be a weak tight end class, the Packers could find some value in the fourth round if Higbee is still on the board.

Hunter Henry leads the class but would likely require a first round selection for the Packers.

Next: Round 4

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