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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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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. Mandatory Credit: 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. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

OLB Leonard Floyd, Georgia

Why it makes sense: Anytime you can bolster your pass rush it’s a good thing. Leonard Floyd has the look of an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense, and he can become an immediate contributor on the rotation.

With Julius Peppers’ snap count set to reduce again in 2016, finding someone capable of filling in and joining Clay Matthews and Nick Perry on the outside is important. Floyd could be the guy at No. 27.

Why it doesn’t make sense: There are so many question marks with the Georgia product. Floyd needs to bulk up his frame and lacks the strength required at the next level. A year in the weight room would be beneficial for him, but at this stage he looks like a boom-or-bust prospect.

Verdict: I can see why the Packers would look to add a pass rusher on day one, but this one feels like a risky pick. Floyd is a talented player, but he is a first round talent? We’ll see. Nick Perry and Datone Jones are useful players, but neither as lived up to their first-round status. I fear Floyd would join the list.

Next: Strengthening a deep unit

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