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Packers 2016 seven-round mock draft: Defense is focus for Packers

By Freddie Boston

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of a helmet and NFL shield logo before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of a helmet and NFL shield logo before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Round 2 (57): LB Su’a Cravens, USC

In the second round, the Packers find a fix to their inside linebacker spot. Su’a Cravens is one of the most intriguing prospects in the draft due to his ability to play multiple positions. Some teams see him as a perfect fit at safety, but in Green Bay Cravens could slot in as the weakside inside linebacker.

Cravens has outstanding instincts to play the position, and he also has the speed to give chase from sideline to sideline. His coverage ability would help fill the void left by Clay Matthews, who is expected to move back to outside linebacker on a full-time basis. Cravens can be a playmaker at the middle of the Packers’ defense with the ability to make interceptions and take them to the house.

The USC product is simply a good football player, and one who could help the Packers defense in a number of ways. If he falls to No. 57, Ted Thompson should have no hesitation picking him up. With Matthews moving back outside, Cravens pairing with Jake Ryan or Sam Barrington at inside linebacker and Kenny Clark added to the defensive line, the front seven immediately looks healthier.

Next: Round 3

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