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Green Bay Packers: Ten first-round options in 2016 NFL Draft

By Freddie Boston

Nov 21, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah (38) reacts during the game against the Baylor Bears at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 21, 2015; Stillwater, OK, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah (38) reacts during the game against the Baylor Bears at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) and Missouri Tigers offensive lineman Nate Crawford (55) battle during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) and Missouri Tigers offensive lineman Nate Crawford (55) battle during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Missouri 9-6. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

OLB Leonard Floyd, Georgia

After the Packers’ defense posted 43 sacks (tied for No. 7 in the NFL) last season, it’s easy to forget they could do with more pass rushers. Even with Clay Matthews’ expected move back outside, it’s a need.

Julius Peppers accounted for 10.5 of those sacks, but the 36-year-old is expected to see his snap count decrease again in 2016. Mike Neal is still a free agent and Nick Perry has been plagued with injuries throughout his career. There’s a lot to like about young Jayrone Elliott, but adding more talent on the edge is important this offseason. Having a dominant pass rush helps you win championships — just ask Denver.

Enter Leonard Floyd out of Georgia.

Floyd has plenty of speed and athleticism, and he bursts off the snap quickly. He has a number of pass rush moves which can help him succeed on the edge from day one.

He needs to bulk up his frame and there’s still creases to iron out, but Floyd has the potential to become an excellent rusher off the edge. Dom Capers’ defense thrives off a strong pass rush, and Floyd would help strengthen an already-impressive unit.

Next: Fixing a major need

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