Packers 2016 Draft: Devil’s advocate with 10 first-round candidates
![Oct 3, 2015; Fort Worth, TX, USA; Texas Christian University Horned Frogs wide receiver Josh Doctson (9) attempts to make a catch against the University of Texas Longhorns in the second quarter at Amon G. Carter Stadium. The pass was incomplete. Mandatory Credit: Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports Oct 3, 2015; Fort Worth, TX, USA; Texas Christian University Horned Frogs wide receiver Josh Doctson (9) attempts to make a catch against the University of Texas Longhorns in the second quarter at Amon G. Carter Stadium. The pass was incomplete. Mandatory Credit: Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Flombardiave-com-2Ffiles-2F2016-2F04-2Fjosh-doctson-ncaa-football-texas-texas-christian-824x560-281b5d57082d45bf245a173665f5c57c14502841917dbf8c3463d3af6a480099.jpg)
TE Hunter Henry, Arkansas
Why it makes sense: Jared Cook offers help in the short term at tight end, but he may only be around for a year. Hunter Henry is the best tight end in the class and would be the future starter.
Henry could compete for snaps as a rookie while being groomed into the No. 1. His ability as a pass-catcher and blocker makes him an intriguing prospect, and one Mike McCarthy could use in a number of ways.
Why it doesn’t make sense: Cook was signed for a reason, and taking Henry in the first round could require leaving talented players at other positions on the board. With Cook plugged into McCarthy’s offense, a mid-round guy like Tyler Higbee would make sense as a developmental piece to groom into a starter.
Verdict: I’m torn on this one. Adding Henry would be a pick with the future in mind, which is important. Cook could only be around a year, and Henry would be able to compete for some snaps as a rookie while offering depth if injuries strike.
Tight ends often take some time to develop in the league, so adding a talent like Henry on day one and grooming him into the future starter would make sense.
On the other hand, finding a defensive lineman, edge rusher or inside linebacker would offer more immediate help.
Next: Getting some help up front