Lombardi Ave
FanSided

Packers 2016 Draft: Roundtable mock draft second round

By Freddie Boston

Oct 17, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) reacts after making a tackle against the Southern California Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeats Southern California 41-31. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) reacts after making a tackle against the Southern California Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeats Southern California 41-31. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
7 of 7
Next
Oct 10, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle Austin Johnson (99) during the third quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Indiana 29-7. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O
Oct 10, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive tackle Austin Johnson (99) during the third quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers at Beaver Stadium. Penn State defeated Indiana 29-7. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /

Freddie Boston: DT Austin Johnson, Penn State

Round 1: DE Noah Spence

After strengthening the pass rush with Noah Spence on day one, the Packers turn to the deep pool of defensive linemen in the second round. Due to their being such an impressive group of talent at the position, finding an impact starter in the second round becomes that much easier.

And that’s what the Packers can do with Austin Johnson of Penn State. Interestingly, staff writer Ralph Mancini projected Johnson to Green Bay with his first-round pick. I have a second-ground grade on him and believe he could be there at No. 57 for the Packers. In such a case, they would have the opportunity to further bolster the front seven.

Johnson can be disruptive at nose tackle in Dom Capers’ defense. He can eat up blocks and help plug up running lanes. The Packers need big guys who can stop the run, and with Johnson on the defensive line next to Mike Daniels and Letroy Guion, the defense would be in a better position to do just that.

Next: What can Kenny Clark bring to Packers defense?

What’s also exciting with Johnson is his potential as an interior pass rusher. The Penn State product can help collapse the pocket from the inside, and first-rounder Spence can tee off on the quarterback off the edge. I can see a smile on Capers’ face.

Home/Green Bay Mock Drafts