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Packers 2016 Draft: Devil’s advocate with 10 first-round candidates

By Freddie Boston

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 /
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Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

ILB Reggie Ragland, Alabama

Why it makes sense: Reggie Ragland would fix one of the most pressing areas of need on defense. He’s an old-school thumper and would be an upgrade on what the Packers have at the inside linebacker positions.

His best work comes against the run, which is an area of need for Green Bay. Pairing him with a solid defensive lineman could help the defense shut down the run better.

Why it doesn’t make sense: Ragland’s lack of speed and deficiencies in coverage could limit him to being just a two-down linebacker, and spending a first-round pick a two-down player is a little rich.

There’s no doubting Ragland’s talent, but you want a versatile player who can play all three downs. The Packers need a coverage linebacker and Ragland isn’t that guy.

Verdict: I recently wrote why the Packers should avoid Ragland in the first round. He’s a two-down linebacker and it doesn’t feel right spending the 27th overall pick on that kind of production. Maybe the Packers don’t care about that. If he can upgrade the defense who cares?

There will be other opportunities to find a coverage linebacker, and Ragland wouldn’t be the right fit for the role.

Next: A true playmaker

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