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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 26, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Eastern Kentucky defensive lineman Noah Spence speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 26, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Eastern Kentucky defensive lineman Noah Spence speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

DE Noah Spence, Eastern Kentucky

Why it makes sense: On talent alone, Noah Spence would be a surefire top-ten prospect. If he can put his off-the-field issues behind him, the Packers could land one of the best pure pass rushers the draft has to offer.

The thought of Spence lining up at outside linebacker opposite Clay Matthews or Julius Peppers would be a fun sight to see, and potentially one that could help take the defense to the next level.

Why it doesn’t make sense: This would be an extremely risky pick. Spence was kicked out of Ohio State for failing multiple drugs tests, and this isn’t an issue to take lightly. There’s as much chance of him running into further trouble as there is him putting it behind him and staying clean.

Verdict: This one comes down to trusting the coaching staff. Ted Thompson will have done all of the appropriate due diligence beforehand and will have spoken to Spence in person. If he’s selected at No. 27, we have to assume the Packers are convinced his off-the-field issues are behind him and won’t remerge in Green Bay.

If that’s the case, we have to trust their opinion and look at the talent Spence brings to the table, which is an awful lot.

Next: An upgrade to the pass rush

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