Packers 2017 Draft: A case for each position in the first round

The case for edge rusher in Round 1

Finding another pass-rushing outside linebacker is arguably one of the Packers biggest needs on the roster. While Clay Matthews and Nick Perry are set as starters, Green Bay needs more talented pass rushers to rotate in at the position, especially after Julius Peppers and Datone Jones departed in free agency.

Dom Capers defense is reliant on generating consistent quarterback pressure, and he usually does this by keeping his pass rushers fresh on the field. In addition, Matthews is on the wrong side of 30 and his game isn’t quite as dynamic as it once was. We should also expect he’ll miss at least a few games next season due to injury.

The Packers need more young talented players to develop at outside linebacker. They can’t just expect Kyler Fackrell and Jayrone Elliott will suddenly emerge and play major roles on defense.

Fortunately for the Packers, there will be plenty of edge rushers to select from at the end of the first round. While it’s clear Myles Garrett and Solomon Thomas will be off the board early in the first round, it’s anyone’s guess where the rest of the top edge rushers will fall on the first day.

Some view Carl Lawson, Derek Barnett, and Takkarist McKinley as top-20 locks, while others see them falling out of the first round. This theme continues with the other pass rushers in this class. Depending on who you ask, Tim Williams, T.J. Watt, Charles Harris, Taco Charlton, and Derek Rivers are legitimate first-round players or are clearly Day 2 prospects.

The point being, there will be plenty of edge players for the Packers to choose from if they really want to address the position with their first pick. Personally, I think McKinley, Williams, Watt, and Rivers would be the best fits in their 3-4 front, and they seem like the most likely matches for the Packers in the first round.