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Green Bay Packers: Five defensive line targets in 2016 NFL Draft

By Freddie Boston

Dec 30, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack quarterback Jacoby Brissett (12) gets tackled by Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive lineman Chris Jones (98) during the first quarter in the 2015 Belk Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack quarterback Jacoby Brissett (12) gets tackled by Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive lineman Chris Jones (98) during the first quarter in the 2015 Belk Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detailed view of a Green Bay Packers helmet against the Arizona Cardinals during the NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detailed view of a Green Bay Packers helmet against the Arizona Cardinals during the NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Javon Hargrave, South Carolina State

A potential sleeper the Packers could pickup later in the draft is Javon Hargrave out of South Carolina State. Hargrave is a powerful player who can be a force against the run and also provide some interior pass rush. His combination of power and athleticism makes him an intriguing day three option.

The 6-foot-1, 309-pounder is raw, but has the tools to become a key contributor in the future. Dane Brugler of CBSSports.com wrote the following about Hargrave’s outlook:

"“Powerful big men who can move – that’s what the NFL is looking for in defensive line prospects and that’s what Hargrave offers. He can anchor to hold his ground vs. the run and generate an interior pass rush due to his snap anticipation and ability to convert quickness to power. His college head coach calls him a “special player” due to his ability to disrupt the rhythm of the pocket, something that will translate to the next level.”"

It’s unclear when the Packers will turn to a defensive lineman, but there’s a strong chance they will do so at some stage.

Next: Ten mid-round draft options for the Packers

With such a strong pool of talent along the line, it would be a waste to not make the most of it. Whether they opt for an early-round player like Reed or Butler or hold out for more of a developmental prospect like Hargrave, the Packers have plenty of options to improve the defense.

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