Green Bay Packers: Ten first-round options in 2017 NFL Draft
By Dan Dahlke
10. John Ross, WR, Washington
Speed. Speed. Speed. These are the three reasons the Packers should consider selecting Ross in the first round if they get a chance.
Many expect Ross to run a sub-4.4 forty time at the Combine this spring. He’s already garnered DeSean Jackson comparisons from the draft community, and he has the potential to have a similar career.
Ross is an explosive wide receiver with true downfield playmaking ability. He averaged around 15 yards per catch in 2016 and his 17 receiving touchdowns led the Pac-12. He could bring his big-play ability to the Packers offense.
While he doesn’t have the typical size of a boundary receiver (5-11, 190), Ross’s top-end speed scares defenses into conservative coverage, which opens things up underneath for other receivers.
The Packers could use a deep threat on offense to open things up for Nelson, Adams, and Cobb. Jeff Janis and Trevor Davis have similar straight-line speed, but they are not nearly the level of receiver as Ross. Ross is a much better route runner, has more consistent hands, and shows a better ability after the catch.
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It’s more than likely the Packers will use their first-round pick to address their holes on defense. However, there’s a strong case for them to add more dynamic offensive weapons, whether that’s an electric running back, an athletic tight end, or a speed big-play wide receiver.