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Packers 2016 seven-round mock draft: Defense gets major upgrades

By Freddie Boston

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; General view of Radio City Music Hall before the start of the 2014 NFL draft. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; General view of Radio City Music Hall before the start of the 2014 NFL draft. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 19, 2015; Madison, WI, USA; Troy Trojans wide receiver John Johnson (2) is tackled by Wisconsin Badgers linebacker Joe Schobert (58) after catching a pass during the first quarter at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2015; Madison, WI, USA; Troy Trojans wide receiver John Johnson (2) is tackled by Wisconsin Badgers linebacker Joe Schobert (58) after catching a pass during the first quarter at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 4 (125): OLB/ILB Joe Schobert, Wisconsin

The Packers have needs at both outside and inside linebacker, and Wisconsin’s Joe Schobert can help in both departments. Schobert has good quickness, is a solid run defender and has ability dropping into coverage.

He is a little undersized (6-foot-1, 244 pounds) to play outside often and would likely be moved inside in Dom Capers’ defense. Given the pressing need at the inside spots, this would make more sense. Clay Matthews is expected to move back to outside linebacker, which further highlights the need inside. Schobert could be that guy. On obvious passing downs, he could be used to tee off on the quarterback.

If the former Wisconsin Badger drops to the fourth round, he would provide Ted Thompson tremendous value. Like Jake Ryan last year, the Packers could grab themselves a solid player who can help strengthen an area of need.

Schobert could help out right away on special teams, and he has the instincts and work ethic to find a role on defense. Moving him inside with Ryan and Sam Barrington would help Matthews make a permanent move to outside linebacker where he can help the defense rush the passer with more consistency.

Next: Round 4

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