2018 NFL mock draft: Packers address defense in first round
LB. Boise State. Leighton Vander Esch. 28. player. 55.
Unfortunately, Ryan Shazier looks to have endured a career-ending injury, which is a massive blow to this defense, and it was noticeable how much he meant to this defense once he was gone. Without Shazier the middle of this defense needs to be addressed.
Vander Esch is a do-it-all linebacker; proven by his stats in his final season at Boise St: 141 tackles, 8.5 TFL, four sacks and two INTs.
Many people have talked about how he could be a linebacker that is shifted all over in different formations, but to me, he looks like he is meant to play inside backer. He is excellent in run support, does a great job of chasing runners down, has the athleticism and quickness to help in coverage, and plays with a high motor.
Connor Williams. 29. player. 52. . T. Texas
Jacksonville has as stacked of a defense as any team in the NFL, and it looks like its first round pick is either going to be a wide receiver or offensive lineman.
Cam Robinson has not worked out at left tackle. Connor Williams is arguably the best tackle in this class, but his 2017 film was just not as impressive as his prior years.
According to Williams’ coaches, he is a true leader and a weight room warrior. Williams has the build and play style to be able to move around the offensive line if needed, he could play guard in a pinch. The Jags happily improve their offensive line to protect their QB and to improve their run game for their franchise running back Leonard Fournette.