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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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Sep 25, 2014; Tempe, AZ, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Aaron Wallace (51) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium. UCLA defeated Arizona State 62-27. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2014; Tempe, AZ, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Aaron Wallace (51) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Sun Devil Stadium. UCLA defeated Arizona State 62-27. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 5 (163): OLB Aaron Wallace, UCLA

In the fifth round, the Packers can add more depth at outside linebacker with Aaron Wallace out of UCLA. Wallace is more of a developmental prospect, but he has some exciting traits that could help him become a valuable player down the road.

The 6-foot-3, 240-pounder is a good athlete who would be a good fit as an outside linebacker in a 3-4. NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein believes he may require patience, but has the raw tools to work with.

"“Wallace is an ascending prospect with the twitch, athleticism and power to become an eventual starter as a 3­-4 outside linebacker. However, despite his growth as a player this season, he is still in a developmental phase and may take some seasoning before he is ready to become a contributor on the NFL level.”"

Julius Peppers is likely entering his final season in Green Bay (and possibly his career). While Wallace won’t ‘replace’ Peppers, having young, developing pass rushers ready to step up in the coming years is important.

By adding another edge rusher with potential on day three, the Packers have another athlete to work with and develop in Dom Capers’ defense.

Next: Round 6

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