Green Bay Packers: Ted Thompson’s top 30 draft picks of all-time

24. A.J. Hawk (Freddie’s pick)

A.J. Hawk was far from a flashy player during his time in Green Bay, but he was a tackle-machine in the middle of Dom Capers’ defense. Selected with the fifth overall pick in 2006, Hawk of course brought high expectations with him to Packers News, perhaps unfairly.

Hawk couldn’t shake the first-round tag associated with his name, but he did put together a solid career at the heart of the Packers’ defense. As a rookie, he received two Rookie of the Week honors and finished third in the voting for Rookie of the Year. He tallied a team-high 119 tackles that season. Registering a team-high in tackles was commonplace throughout his career.

Hawk was often referred to as a quarterback on defense due to his knowledge of the scheme and communication skills. He helped young guys line up correctly, even when his own performances were beginning to fade towards the backend of his time in Green Bay.

Eventually, Hawk’s performances hit a wall and he fell out of favor as a starter. Its important not to remember him for his farewell season in Green Bay, but rather for the continuity he provided at the inside linebacker position for many years.

Next: No. 23 (Ray's pick)