Green Bay Packers depth chart predictions following 2016 NFL Draft

Tight ends

Tight ends: Jared Cook, Richard Rodgers, Justin Perillo, Kennard Backman

Tight end was a major need for the Packers entering the offseason, and they responded with the free agent acquisition of Jared Cook, formerly of the Los Angeles Rams. Cook gives the Packers a speedy, athletic target who can attack the middle of the field. Cook has never fully lived up to his potential, but he’s also never been blessed with a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers.

Richard Rodgers might be limited due to his lack of speed and sharp route-running, but he is a dangerous red zone target, as is evident by his eight touchdown receptions in 2015. Rodgers is entering a critical third season in Green Bay, and more development could help him make another step in the right direction.

There is some depth with Justin Perillo and Kennard Backman. Perillo was the Packers’ best tight end at times last season, while Backman is nothing more than a developmental prospect at this stage. In his second year, will we see him on the field more often?

For the short term, the Packers’ need at tight end looks to be addressed. It would have been nice to see them go after a tight end in the draft, but talented players at the position were few and far between, and the Packers might be comfortable with the young talent already on the roster.

Next: Offensive line